HEAVY Music Interviews

Interview by Kris PetersFor a quarter of a century, American rock outfit The Used have dominated the global rock landscape, delivering countless albums that not only helped shape the course of musical history but also helped shape the lives of a good deal of music fans the world over.Bursting onto the scene with their self-titled debut album in 2002, The Used transcended normal music prejudices to become favourites of both consumers of music and critics, finding that elusive formula early on in their career while most bands finish their tenure still oblivious to how to find it.From The Used, the band went on to release In Love And Death in 2004, somehow topping the heights achieved on their first album, before solidifying their stature amongst the rock elite with 2007's Lies For The Liars. Now, in celebration of 25 years atop their field, The Used bring the party to Australia in a unique run of shows that sees them perform each of those three albums in their entirety in each capital city.Such is the demand for these special shows that several more have had to be added, more than half of which have already sold out. HEAVY recently sat down with bass player Jepha to dive deeper into the idea and the celebrations that look set to continue for some time yet."I'm excited, I'm ready to go," he enthused when we began. "We just ended a full US version, and we went to Europe for a few dates, then we took this month off, and now I'm already itching to go back out and move to Australia for a bit (laughs)."We mention the fact that more than half of the 21 shows are already sold out and ask how good it feels to know that people on the other side of the world are so hungry for their arrival."It's really exciting," Jepha smiled. "The best part is for our singer - because he lives in Sydney and has been out there about ten years now - he always has to come to us to rehearse and practice and everything, so he's always jet-lagged. Now the joke's on us that we are all flying over and will be jet-lagged and fucked the whole time, and he is going to be spot on (laughs)."Having had to add so many extra shows, The Used will now be in Australia for almost one month, so we ask Jepha if the band had already planned or budgeted in that extra time away from home."We didn't expect this much," he laughed. "We didn't expect it to go this long and to have multiple dates added and a lot of places selling out. That's all… not a shock… it's all better than we imagined."In the full interview, Jepha talks more about the tour and what fans can expect, learning the first three albums in full and any difficulties faced plus how the band will approach each night and bring their best to each performance.We dive deeper into each of the three albums and what they mean to The Used, his memories of recording each, the musical shift between each and how that reflected the growth of The Used musically, new music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

16 Jul 11min

Interview by Angela CroudaceDark fantasy rockers Blackbriar are known for weaving rich, cinematic soundscapes and fairytale-inspired tales into their music, and their new album A Thousand Little Deaths is no exception. Vocalist Zora Cock and guitarist René Boxem sat down to reflect on the band’s creative process, the emotional depth behind the music, and hopes to finally reach fans Down Under.Zora, who pens all the lyrics before music is composed, shared that inspiration often comes from folklore, history, and personal metaphor. “I usually see visuals in my head very quickly after writing the lyrics,” she said, highlighting the band’s filmic aesthetic. Their music video for Harpy, hand-drawn frame by frame by their own creative team, reflects this commitment to authenticity, just pure, painstaking artistry.The band remains deeply grounded despite their viral success with Until Eternity. “It took months before anything happened,” René recalled, “then suddenly it skyrocketed. It changed everything.”Their bond with fans is a cornerstone of their identity, from Discord chats to cherished fan gifts like a sword engraved with song lyrics and even a rare turtle coin (literally a medallion emblazoned with a turtle that I definitely want to do more research on). “We keep everything,” Zora laughed. “It really means a lot.”Australia is very much on their radar. A planned tour fell through due to the pressure of filling venues, but the dream is alive. “We’d love to come—maybe as a support act or for a festival first,” said René.As for A Thousand Little Deaths, Zora hopes listeners feel the same shivers she did on first listen. “Some songs brought me to tears. It’s deeply personal. I just hope it makes people feel something.”And for Australian fans? Keep your ears open and your turtle coins ready…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

16 Jul 18min

Interview by Kris PetersMelbourne pop/punk/emo/rock outfit This Space Is Ours have rapidly built a name for themselves since kicking off in 2021. Backing up a string of energetic singles with a succession of memorable live performances, the band have steadily been building their name through a growing number of live shows, including sharing the stage with Bad/Love and Future Static, and in 2024 they celebrated a sold-out first headline show.But now the band are ready to expose a darker side to their light. A heavier, darker side that introduces itself courtesy of the band's upcoming single Picture Perfect Paper People, which will be premiered via HEAVY on 16/07/25 before being unleashed on the world the following day.HEAVY caught up with vocalist Gemma Dunsmore to go into greater detail."In the past, our singles before this year were more pop punk-esque," she explained, "and with these new singles and our upcoming EP, we wanted to move the instrumentation to be more heavy, while still keeping this emo tone to the vocals. So we got this cool contrast going, and this third single really cements that."As a young emerging band, the pressures on new material are overwhelming, especially in the current saturated environment. As such, we ask Dunsmore how much thought and planning went into releasing their first body of work."We had heaps of conversations around it," she affirmed. "Me (sic) and the bassist were more on the pop-punk side, wanting to stay a little bit more pop-ish, and then the guitarists grew up listening to prog and metalcore, and they were pushing for this heavier sound (laughs). So there was a lot of conversation to try and find a place that worked for everyone, and I reckon we got there."In the full interview, Gemma introduced their new single, Picture Perfect Paper People, and described the evolution of their sound towards a heavier style in their upcoming EP set for release in September. She emphasized the importance of organization and collaboration in the EP's planning process and hinted at a show in October, also exclusively releasing the EP title.The conversation also covered the creation of their music videos, with a focus on the DIY approach for Gone In May and the fun elements in My Name. We spoke more about what to expect musically from the upcoming EP, what is on the horizon for This Space Is Ours, including upcoming shows and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

16 Jul 7min

Interview by Kris PetersNew Zealand's finest exports Devilskin have epitomized everything rock and metal ever since unleashing their debut album We Rise on the world eleven years ago. Not only did their high energy and infectious brand of metal resonate with hometown music lovers, but it also quickly spread on a global level, resulting in the band supporting and touring with established acts such as Slash and Halestorm.Such was the popularity of Devilskin following We Rise that the band became the first New Zealand rock/metal outfit in 18 years to go Platinum, equalling the effort of the mighty Shihad with the album Killjoy. Over the years singles such as Never See The Light, Little Pills, Start A Revolution, Endo and a cover of Heart's classic, Barracuda, have highlighted the personal nature of Devilskin's music as well as the sonic diversity at their disposal.Eleven years after the release of the groundbreaking We Rise, Devilskin return with Re-Evolution, an album that has already been credited with displaying just how far Devilskin have come in 15 years. This is a bold and dynamic perspective of Devilskin and their continued growth plus the reinvention, and the re-evolution of the band as songwriters and as artists.With Re-Evolution dropping today, July 11, HEAVY spent some time with bass player Paul Martin to dig deeper. We start by asking how he is feeling with the release date finally here."It's good, man," he smiled. "It's like that painful bit where you're in labour, and this beautiful product's about to pop out, but at the moment it's like getting everything squeezed into the right places and mailing everything out. Man, we've had so many orders from all over the world, so I've been busy licking stamps and sealing envelopes (laughs)."We ask about two of the singles - Swelter, and Half Life of Dreams - and if they are a good sonic representation of what to expect."I think there's a little bit of everything on this album," Paul measured. "I don't think there's two songs that are quite alike, they're all kind of different in their own way. It's a glimpse into what's on the album, definitely. With the whole album, we wanted to be bold. We just wanted everything to be… we just wanted more of everything."In the full interview, we discussed Re-Evolution in greater detail, including the title of the album, and it's significance to the band. We spoke about the opening song, Red, and why it was chosen as an introduction to the body of music plus Devilskin's growth in their musical journey to date asnd how much growth is left in them.Talk also centred on how the new songs went down live on their rTalk also centred on how the new songs went down live on their recent New Zealand Tour, the guest parts from Nik Barker (12 Foot Ninja) and Joe Hottinger (Halestorm) and what each brought to the song, their recent People's Choice Award victory at the AMA Awards and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

10 Jul 20min

Interview by Angela CroudaceAnn Arbor’s Black Note Graffiti have always walked a tightrope between ferocity and finesse. With their latest album, Resist the Divide, guitarist Kris Keller says the band found its most personal and cathartic voice yet. “We were all going through different things—addiction, trauma, life’s heavier moments—and the album became a space for us to release that,” Keller shares. “It’s the best record I’ve ever been a part of.”Working with renowned producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, King 810), the band took a month in the studio to carefully craft a sound that truly represented each member. “Josh really listened. Every instrument, every voice, got its moment.”Resist the Divide tackles pain, growth, and redemption with thunderous riffs and introspective lyrics. But despite its weight, the band’s goal remains connection and unity. “We’re a hard rock band, but the message is positive. We want people to feel less alone.” Keller credits the addition of vocalist Gabrielle Bryant for bringing new balance and heart to the lineup. “She brought out the best in us—there’s more focus now, more soul.”Their partnership with Australian label Golden Robot Records also hints at dreams beyond the States. “An Aussie tour would be a dream,” Keller says. “Never thought I’d play the stages I have, so who knows? Maybe one day.”Meanwhile, Black Note Graffiti will appear at Wisconsin’s artist-centric Mile of Music festival this August. “It’s amazing—300 artists, free for fans, and they take such good care of musicians. It’s one of the best festivals we’ve played.” For vinyl lovers, Resist the Divide is also available in limited edition. “We wrote the album to be played through, front to back. Vinyl just made sense—it’s an experience.”With music that’s loud, raw, and real, Black Note Graffiti continues to carve their space beyond rock music in the hearts of fans seeking something true. Having done so well in Europe and the U.S., I think it's about time these guys have their Aussie moment, give them a listen. I think you'll be blown away by their intensity, heart, and undeniable talent.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

10 Jul 16min

Interview by Kris PetersPromises are made and broken every day in the music industry, especially when it comes to comments made from stage in the heat of the moment and on the crest of emotion. Promises such as "we will be back REAL soon" are said so often that they mostly pass by unnoticed by fans, who have grown accustomed to living in the moment and not in the future where such remarks are directed.But when a band actually delivers on these promises - not once, but twice - then the shockwaves that resonate could cripple a small country.Which is why, when Don Broco promised on their last Australian tour that they would start their next World Tour in this country, most fans had forgotten the remark as soon as the next day. When they also promised to play Perth and Adelaide, both of which were excluded in the last tour itinerary, the collective sighs of 'yeah, sure' were barely muttered because, let's face it, such promises are made and broken by more than 50% of the bands who tour here.But not Don Broco. These guys are still old school. From the times when a promise meant something, so, true to their word, Don Broco are kicking off their next World Tour in Australia starting on September 4. AND Perth plus Adelaide are both part of the schedule. Who says you can't trust a muso?After spending a large amount of time on the road around the time they were out here last, Don Broco have been more focused on completing their fifth album of late, bunkering down and fine-tuning the next batch of songs to expand their impressive catalogue. But ever since their recent performance at Download 2025, the tour itches have returned, enticing Don Broco back to where they thrive best.The stage.With the tour only being announced earlier today, HEAVY caught up with vocalist Rob Damiani to find out more."We're heading back to Australia very soon indeed," he affirmed. "It's going to be the first tour back touring this new material. We've been working on a new album for the last year and a bit now, and it's very, very close to being finished. This will be the first time we actually get back on the road and play any of this new stuff. It's also the first time we've been on the road for a year and a half, so we're excited.""We've been lucky enough to come to Australia now once every album," he continued. "The times we had on the last record, and the shows we did, were just so good. And the energy out there is so insane. We didn't want to leave it a whole nother album, where you're maybe doing it towards the tail end. So even though I think that not all the record will be out, it will be a load of the new material - probably all of the singles - but not the full record. That's what we're here to do; that's when we feel most alive as a band, when we're performing to people and getting that connection."In the full interview, Rob talked more about the upcoming tour and what to expect, keeping his promises, how much planning and practice goes into a Don Broco live show, the new album and what to expect, what makes a gig even more memorable for him, their 2023 shows at The Royal Albert Hall with an orchestra and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

10 Jul 16min

Interview by Kris PetersAround the turn of the century, a movie came out that changed the face of comedy forever. A movie about teenagers trying to find sexual gratification was not a new concept - hell, such movies were around before movies even - but this one resonated with disenfranchised youth the world over.And lovers of good old-fashioned Apple Pie the universe over.That movie was American Pie, and the main actors that brought us that wonderful tale of self-discovery will forever be etched into cinema folklore as a benchmark for excess and desire - and more than the occasional mishap along the way.While Stifler (Seann William Scott) and the luckless in love Jim (Jason Biggs) might be the perennial favourites of the franchise, not enough people know or understand that American Pie was more about a fresh college teenager who was simply trying to find a way to please his girlfriend. An impressionable young lad by the name of Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas), who not only narrated the movie, but also provided many of the warmer moments - although not as warm as Jim's brief moment of intimacy with said Apple Pie.And just to make sure we all know his name and importance to the franchise, Nicholas is returning to Australia next week for a limited round of American Pie Emo Night shows that bring you closer to the star than ever before.Performing a combination of movie screenings, live band performances, meet and greets and Q & A sessions, Nicholas returns after only a brief absence for unfinished business. HEAVY jumped at the chance to pick his brain for 15 minutes, which turned into a lazy thirty, ahead of the run of shows which kicks off at La La La's in Wollongong on July 16."People watch the film, and they go, oh, shit, I didn't realize that this is Kevin's movie," Nicholas laughed. "So my favourite part about American Pie Emo Night is reminding everyone, yeah, motherfucker, that was my movie (laughs). That's why you liked it. I know Jason Biggs was funny, but he was funny because I was telling the story. Everyone remembers the cherry on top or the frosting. So Stifler's the cherry on top, Jim is the frosting, and I'm the cake."We mention the fact that this will be Nicholas's second trip Down Under this year, to which - of course - he has a reasonable reply."The thing is that I worked for 10 years from 2015 to 2025 to get my first tour in Australia," he explained. "So many failed attempts, but I never give up. This is retribution. When you work hard at something, you may not get it when you want it, but eventually the landslide happens. So I'm making up for lost time."In the full interview, Thomas talked more about his limited run of shows and what to expect, his love for his fans and providing the best show possible every time. He ran us through each section of the show and how it has evolved to this point, highlighting the live music aspect and his original music.We engage more about American Pie and his feelings for the movie and his fellow co-stars, the timeless nature of the movie's comedy and sets the rumours straight (sort of) about the much-debated 'new' movie. We run through challenges posed by being an actor in the music industry and vice versa, some of his more memorable moments on stage, including a special request from Creed, how the upcoming shows will differ from last time he was here and more.Photo: @captured_chrisberryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

10 Jul 23min

Interview by Kris PetersMelbourne rock outfit HZED are ready for a triumphant return to the Australian music scene with the release of their first new music in some time in the form of Heartbreaker.After undergoing personnel changes in recent years, HZED busied themselves and polished their unity by releasing live versions of previous songs recorded during that time, but with Heartbreaker they are back with a fresh, revitalised sound and renewed focus that should see the band quickly establish themselves in the growing pool of Australian talent. After releasing the audio for Heartbreaker on July 4, HZED are now preparing for the launch of the accompanying music video, due out on July 11.HEAVY sat down with Shannon (guitar) and Tenaye (vocals) to find out more."This is the first single we've actually released that's brand new since 2022, with the whole new line-up," Shannon began. "So it's pretty exciting."We ask how the first audio release has been received."It's been great," Shannon continued. "Everybody's loving it. They're loving how big it's sounding and how different we're going.""I think it showcases how much we've evolved as a band and how we've got this whole new era," Tenaye added. "Now that we've got Hannah, we've definitely got a heavier, fuller sound too. And it's really showcased in the single as well."In the full interview, we discussed their strategy of releasing the audio first to generate anticipation before the video launch, with plans to release new singles every three months and potentially an album in the future. We spoke about the video and what to expect, including the basic storyline of the song.We also ran through HZED's upcoming run of shows and what to expect, the future of the band moving forward, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

8 Jul 12min