Guitars, Riffs, And A Little Bit Of Aussie Heat: RICK SCHNEIDER On Polaris And Knotfest

Not many bands in the metal scene - or any other for that matter - can lay claims to being true flag bearers and essential ingredients in shaping the history of music. Sure, many can try, and just as many come off as ill-informed, but the ones that are, know, and those same ones don't ever brag about it.Unless they're asked, of course.Rising from the infamously riotous city of Newcastle, England, in 1974, Raven predated even the massive New Wave Of British Heavy Metal period that spawned some of the legends of heavy metal. The trio went on to release three of the most influential metal albums of the NWOBHM, inspiring every band of that era and beyond. Basically, without RAVEN you just would not have thrash/speed metal…. after all, the band did give Metallica and Anthrax their first tours!And, as all good things do, Raven are the gift that keeps on giving, still powerful and influential half a century after their birth. Still consistently releasing new albums, Raven are also still a formidable force on the live circuit, attacking their craft with the same energy and take-no-prisoners attitude that saw them quickly touted as one of the best bands to grace a live stage.Period.After a five-year absence, Raven return to Australia in early November for a select number of shows, with frontman and bass player John Gallagher forcing HEAVY to arise at the crack of dawn just to have the pleasure of 20 odd minutes of his company.Was it worth it? Fuck my oath it was… One of the topics of discussion was the popular affirmation that Raven, to this day, are still one of the best live bands in the world. A statement we challenge will be hard to live up to."Not really," he responded confidently. "It's what we do. Go watch some videos. We'll put bands who are teenagers, 20-year-olds, we'll put them to shame because we go out to kill 100% every night. It sounds like bluster or BS, but it's not. It really isn't. Come to the show and that's what we do. We have a hell of a good time, and we get everyone in on the act. We grew up in a time where the bands we saw were performers. And entertainers. And they reached out, and they grabbed. The first band we ever saw was Slade and the opening band was The Sensational Alex Harvey Band. Imagine being a 14-year-old kid seeing The Sensational Alex Harvey Band? That changed our lives. Because there you've got a guy who literally reached across everyone's face and freaked them out. Initially, it was 'Who's this band? I don't care, I wanna see Slade. Who are these guys?' And by the end everyone in the place was screaming for them. They were amazing. That's the kind of thing that went in our head. That's how you do it."In the full interview, John discussed Raven's recent activities and their upcoming tour in Australia. John mentioned that the band has been touring since the release of their new album, All Hell's Breaking Loose, and that they are celebrating their 50th anniversary.We talked about the challenges and fun aspects of playing in a band. He also talked about the musical climate in the 1970s, which inspired him and his brother Mark to form Raven, citing their influences such as Slade, Sweet, Gary Glitter, Status Quo, T-Rex, Deep Purple, and Montrose. John emphasized the importance of learning from other bands and adapting to audience reactions.We discussed their experiences with the early 1980s NWOBHM scene. John shared his involvement in the Newcastle music scene, describing the competitive yet supportive atmosphere among bands. He recounted the band's rapid rise to fame, from playing pubs to opening for Iron Maiden within three months. John also shared instances of competition and sabotage among bands but emphasized the overall camaraderie and respect among musicians.HEAVY highlighted Raven's influence on thrash metal and their contributions to the music industry. John shared that they were one of the first bands to rev up the genre, and their energy and cutting of "fat" riffs were groundbreaking. He also mentioned their influence on German bands and how they inspired many musicians. He emphasized the importance of creativity and the joy of creating new music, even after 50 years as a band. He also mentioned the band's resilience in the face of changing music trends and personal challenges, plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

30 Okt 202426min

For three decades Devin Townsend has become a part of the audio furniture in our homes and lives! In 2024 the incredibly prolific and brilliant great man that is Devin reaches into to his beautifully profound heart and mind, telling enlightening us about the journey of creating what was initially a simple thank you to his fans in the overall purpose of Powernerd to a diary journal of realising and then scripting an entry that would encompass a multitude of emotions that we all have at some point in our adulting lives,  experienced and chosen to either repress or express to a wider forgiving and loving group of those around us willing to hug us compassionately and without judgement. Like always, if you listen to the full interview podcast with "The Dev", you’ll hear further profound insights and meanings behind other songs on the upcoming ‘Powernerd’ album as well as tracks from his past.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

30 Okt 20241h 11min

Combining the haunting sounds of dark symphonic metal with the lovelorn energy of gothic rock, Blue Mountains music machine Carmeria have upped the anti significantly with their recently released sophomore album Tragédie D'amour.While their 2021 debut album Advenae announced the arrival of Carmeria it was also somewhat of a tease, showcasing a sonic temperament and direction that was fresh and vibrant without tipping its hand too far in any given direction. As such, the follow-up album was especially important for the band. They could either deliver more of the same - which would have been an acceptable outcome - or they could continue to traverse a more diverse path on the open highway of musical ability.They chose the latter, with the sound on Tragedie D'Amour taking on a more energetic gothic rock approach than its predecessor.To celebrate the recent release, Carmeria are preparing to hit the road for a run of dates with melodic death metal masters Orpheus Omega dubbed the Embers Of Tragedy Australian Tour. HEAVY spent some time with frontman Jordan Von Grae to get more information, starting with last-minute preparations before hitting the road."Really it's just rehearsals and tweaking bits and pieces of the performance," he offered. "So coming up with specific set lists for each show, things like that. Obviously, with these kinds of shows and tours, you have different set lengths for the different shows. One of the sets is 40 minutes and I think another is 50 to an hour, so you're kind of picking and choosing which songs you feel would fit best and of course having to axe some that you might not wanna axe (laughs), But the last couple of weeks before a tour is really about tightening everything up. There's been a bit of work. We've pretty much only had one rehearsal (smiles) so far since being back, and we've got two more planned for the next week. Off the back of that it will be just about tweaking little production things and coming up with some additional ideas for additional performance pazazz."In the full interview, Jordan discussed the release of each band's new albums. He expressed relief and satisfaction with the positive reception of Tragédie D'amour, which took on a more energetic Gothic rock approach. Jordan explained that the change in sound was a deliberate choice to explore different themes, such as love and loss, and to delve into influences like bands like HIM and Lord of the Lost.Jordan discussed the lessons learned from making the band's debut album, which they carried over into album number two. He mentioned that the process became more streamlined, allowing them to produce the second album in half the time. Jordan also talked about his role as producer for this album, stating that it allowed for a more natural sound to the songs but also required him to learn temperance to avoid overdoing it. He expressed excitement about the upcoming tour with Orpheus Omega, stating that they both appreciate each other's work and are looking forward to playing together.We also surprised him with our new Photo Bomb segment, plus plenty more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

29 Okt 202419min

West Australian metal outfit Make Them Suffer found themselves at an important crossroads just a short couple of years ago.With the turmoil of COVID still echoing in the rear vision mirror, Make Them Suffer found themselves beset by more line-up changes, which, coupled with a high level of external expectations, cast an increasingly large, dark shadow over the possibility of a productive future.Tracing its origins back to 2022, the new Make Them Suffer era was first set in motion by the announcement of Sean Harmanis (vocals), Nick McLernon (guitar), Jaya Jeffery (bass), and Jordan Mather (drums) releasing the blistering single Doomswitch as well as joining forces with Alex Reade taking up the role of backing vocalist and keyboardist, aka Make Them Suffer’s trademark Fifth Member. Following on with singles Epitaph and Ghost Of Me, Make Them Suffer ultimately crafted their forthcoming self-titled new album in between an exceedingly busy international touring schedule as live music opportunities continued to rise in the post-pandemic landscape.Harnessing that confusion and uncertainty, Make Them Suffer have fearlessly stepped into new creative terrain that embraces yet boldly expands upon the group's foundational symphonic, progressive, and blackened textures.With the new album less than two weeks from being unleashed on the sonic landscape, HEAVY caught up with guitarist Nick McLernon to dig deeper."I'm gonna be honest with you, I don't feel a thing," he replied solemnly when asked about the looming release date. "The last two years we've been through many ups and downs - a lot of downs. We've struggled through adversity, rather, many adversities to be here, so I think that's desensitised us - or at least me. I'm not sure if I'm speaking on behalf of the rest of the band, but I certainly feel desensitised to everything with the lead-up to the record coming out. I might feel different… I'm sure it's all going to catch up to me when the record actually does come out, but right now… this is the first time in two years I have actually gotten to relax and not think about music. We've been touring and writing since Doomswitch was released and since Alex joined the band. So this is the first time I actually don't have to think about music."In the full interview, Nick discusses why now is the right time to name an album after the band, the sound of the album and what the band were going for musically, the singles released and how they represent the full album, Alex's addition for the album and what she brought to the creative process, self-producing the album and the pros and cons of keeping it in house, balancing genres successfully, future plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

29 Okt 202417min

One of the best things about touring foreign countries is experiencing local bands, music and culture, and Japan is by far one of the best places in the world to do so. Heavy Metal is a growing and thriving market in the country, and over the course of seven trips with Australian and International bands, the talent and diversity on display has been nothing short of sensational.One such band is heavy outfit SxxRxxS, a four-pronged beast of classic heavy metal that is as traditional as it is brazen. Speed metal laced with classic metal shrouded in a veil of heaviness, SxxRxxS are pure metal incarnate, and with one album under their belts and a burning desire to tour outside of Japan, manager Yuji joined HEAVY to get us and the band better acquainted.Yuji discussed the band's commitment to authentic heavy metal music, inspired by bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. He emphasized that the band's style is not a new type of metal, but rather a continuation of the old-school metal genre. Yuji also mentioned the band's mission to introduce young people to the goodness of old-school metal.We discussed the differences in music culture between Japan and the Western world, noting that Japanese musicians tend to specialize in one instrument and have a designated leader in their bands, which helps in decision-making and maintaining focus. In contrast, Western musicians often play multiple instruments and do not have a designated leader. They also touched on the Japanese tendency to copy and learn from others, which contributes to their skill in playing instruments.Yuji discussed the impressive performance of SxxRxxS, praising their professionalism and stage presence. He noted that the band members had been playing together for a while and had rehearsed extensively to perfect their performance. He also mentioned that the bass player, K-Chi, had a long history in the music industry, having released records with major labels in the past and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

28 Okt 202414min

Progression, or more generally, change, is a constant in music; in order to adapt and survive, you must grow and develop. No band knows this as much as Michigan heavy music act Of Virtue.Born from the blistering cold, barren fields of Michigan and erupting into an internationally recognized and critically acclaimed alternative powerhouse, Of Virtue’s growth is nothing short of jaw dropping. Whether it’s having shared their music with fans in over 30 countries across the globe, amassing a multitude of Billboard charting positions, gaining Top 50 Media base radio play slots, having over 20 million total streams or beyond, Of Virtue is always looking forward to change and progress, to evolve and grow.That thirst for advancement sees the band hit Australia for the first time in a matter of days as part of The Hardest Part Tour which was put together by Aussie metal outfit Sienna Skies. HEAVY sat down with guitarist/vocalist Damon Tate earlier this week to get the lowdown on what to expect."People that have listened to us over the years and said hey, can you get down here, it was like ever since we announced the tour the reception has been great," he smiled. "I've been getting messages from friends and people in other bands we have toured with in different places, and they are like, hey, when you get here you're gonna have fun. Everyone's ready. People understand too. You're coming from a long way away and people say hey, we know how hard it is to not only get out to another country, but to have bands come over here as well, so when they do we're gonna make you feel right at home."In the full interview, we talk more about the troubles of getting to a country for the first time, what to expect from Of Virtue live, what they are expected from crowds here, their relationship with Sienna Skies, playing at Froth & Fury Festival, the early days of the band and where they fit in, evolving over time musically while still staying in touch with your core fan base, new music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

27 Okt 202418min

As if this year wasn't already exciting enough for Nebraska rock outfit 311 with their upcoming appearance at Good Things Festival 2024 alongside Sum 41, Korn, Mastodon, Kerry King and more, but the band have added a touch more spice to proceedings with the release of their 14th studio album Full Bloom late last week.Full Bloom is the group's first full-length project in 5 years, following their album Voyager in 2019. Their first single off the album, You’re Gonna Get It is the band’s highest charting song in 13 years, breaking into the top 15 at Alternative Radio. It is proof alone that despite the apparent need for regular releases in the modern musical climate, good music will always be good music and fans will (almost) always stay loyal to good music.Thirty-three years into a stellar career, 311 continues to produce compelling, unifying music, with a unique, hybrid sound that encapsulates rock, rap, reggae and funk still turning heads with regularity.Bass player P-Nut joined HEAVY to talk about the album, Good Things and whatever else popped up."I don't get nervous about much," he replied when we asked if the excitement of a new album was still the same 14 albums in. "The fear's been scared out of me, I guess (laughs). But releasing an album is a tenuous, nerve wracking, kind of anxious emotion. It's kind of a scary thing to release an album, even if we've done it fourteen times now."We ask if the band has a set creative process measured over time or if each album presents new challenges."I think everyone's got their own method," P - Nut measured. "We come together when those reach whatever peak. Nick calls me in for lyrics frequently, which is really fun, and it's been something that I've really enjoyed in the band over the last fifteen years or so. We're pretty fixed. We've all got home studios, and we work relatively well on our own. We have demo-itis sometimes where the demos can be better than the finished result (laughs), but I think that's just my ears sometimes. It's really fun recording still. It's only easier, of course now, but now I think everyone's fixed in their way and we get together when the time is right."In the full interview P - Nut talks more about Full Bloom, what to expect musically, how it differs to 2019's Voyager, keeping a steady fan base, their appearance at Good Things Festival, which bands on the line-up 311 hasn't played with before, what we can expect from them live, their just announced sideshows, three songs to get to know the band better plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

27 Okt 202415min

It seems these days every second touring band is doing an anniversary run for an album from their back catalogue. Almost to the point where the whole concept is starting to lose its appeal, mainly because it's hard to tell which bands have a genuine interest in revisiting that album and which bands just see it as a potential financial bonanza.You don't have to think hard to see which side of the ledger The Butterfly Effect sit.The Butterfly Effect have been a mainstay on the Australian music scene for approaching a quarter of a century, churning out a plethora of hit singles and being widely recognised as one of the country's leading live acts.So when they announced last year that they would be celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album Begins Here fans rushed to buy tickets, eager to hear not only the singles from the album - Crave, Beautiful Mine, Always and One Second Of Insanity - but also the rest of the album that, for some, shaped large parts of their youth.That tour wound up earlier this year, but The Butterfly Effect weren't done yet. While capital cities got to experience the band in full flights, their regional counterparts missed out and after a bit of prompting from fans in those areas The Butterfly Effect decided to do another celebration run, this time taking in those less populated - but still music loving - areas.Rejigged to be the 21st Anniversary Of Begins Here Tour, the 25-date run of shows kicks off in Cairns on January 30, 2025 before finishing in Darwin on March 14.It is a massive run of shows across the length and breadth of the country, but one which frontman Clint Boge is adamant the fans deserve.HEAVY caught up with Boge to find out more."I'm a sucker for punishment," he laughed. "What can I tell you? My bloody drummer keeps booking gigs and I keep saying to him 'mate, how old do you think I am' (laughs). We're rounding the bend for 50 - and I must say we're looking very good for 50. It's amazing. I've gotta be honest with you, after this tour, I'm gonna need the whole rest of the year off to recover (laughs). We're all really stoked. We're all really excited. Everyone is starting to ramp up to it. We're talking about getting fit and healthy as a group, and you have to these days. It used to be late nights and partying until you drop, but yeah… we can't really do that any more. It's the next day that gets ya. We can still do it, but it's the next day."In the full interview, Clint reflects on The Butterfly Effect's recent 20th-anniversary tour, discussing the positive fan response and their desire to connect with long-time supporters while addressing the challenges of performing entire albums live. He reminisced about the band's early days, the evolution of their sound, and the timeless appeal of Begins Here.He spoke about how the fans had a say in where the regional tour would go, if the same songs that were popular on Begins Here 20 years ago were still popular two decades later, the timeless qualities of the album and the importance of allowing your music to breath, future new music and more.Tickets for the 21 Years Of Begins Here Regional Tour available here: thebutterflyeffectband.com.au.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

27 Okt 202418min