MATTY MULLINS From MEMPHIS MAY FIRE Talks About Next Aussie Invasion

No matter what they do musically from now until eternity, New York rockers Wheatus will always be known as the Dirtbag band. The fact that Teenage Dirtbag is probably bigger today than when it first smashed the air waves 25 years ago is made even more impressive when you factor in that Teenage Dirtbag was, in fact, Wheatus' debut single.While no one could have foreseen or even guessed the impact that one song would have on not only the band but a whole generation of movies through to fashion trends, its enduring appeal has, at the very least, kept Wheatus and frontman Brendan Brown young at heart and ready for the next adventure. The viral "Teenage Dirtbag photos" trend on TikTok has attracted over a million participants, including celebs like Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X, Jon Bon Jovi, Chevy Chase and the hashtag #teenagedirtbag has been viewed over 2 billion times. The song’s universal appeal has also led to it being featured in Netflix’s Big Mouth, Disney’s Cruel Summer, and, in 2023, the song incredibly re-entered the UK Top 40 charts.Not bad for a song about life in general.While Wheatus' musical journey exploded from the very outset because of that track, their sudden success was casually taken in the band's stride, who refused to succumb to the weight of public expectation and continued on their own trajectory that somehow has always managed to stay on a similar path with their famous debut song.The band are regular visitors to these shores and have a devoted and loyal following, which in turn allows Brendan and co the freedom and ability to make these regular and always fun stopovers. They are one of the few bands who need no reason or gimmick to draw crowds in Australia, which is why the fact that Wheatus' tour in January next year to celebrate 25 years since their world was turned upside down has already been received as a celebration of music rather than a clever marketing strategy to keep the tills ringing.Always happy to chat, Brendan joined HEAVY recently to discuss the tour and the continued success of Teenage Dirtbag, including their birthday present to themselves by playing their debut album in full."We've been playing that album for years," he smiled, "we never laid off of it. We didn't have to relearn a thing. There are a couple of tweaks we have had to make to the back catalogue to make sure that we get everything in order, should anybody call out anything. But you know, we don't do any set lists. It's all request sets. So, kids are shouting, people are shouting and telling us what to play. You say it, we play it, that's how we do it."We bring up the massive success of Teenage Dirtbag and ask if it sometimes feels like going through the motions, having played it so often."No, man, absolutely not," he stressed. "Never. It's a weird song, you know. I hadn't considered that it would ever be a single. I'd kind of written that off. I didn't think it could be one because it was too long, and it had this meandering story and switched characters and all that stuff. So I didn't think that it would happen. The way that it has is incredible. I mean, I don't know what to make of it, but as a song, I'm quite proud of it."In the full interview, Brendan talked more about the band's upcoming 2026 tour of Australia celebrating the 25th anniversary of their self-titled album, starting in Brisbane on January 15 and concluding with three shows in New Zealand. He confirmed plans to take a break over Christmas to recharge before the tour and noted that the band has consistently performed songs from the album, negating the need for extensive relearning. The band will feature all request sets, allowing fans to choose their preferred songs.We discussed the success of Teenage Dirtbag, with Brendan sharing insights into the song's origins, it's recording in his mother's basement, and the album's snarky tone reflecting his frustrations in the music industry. Talk turned to the song's lasting impact on audiences and his initial thoughts on Teenage Dirtbag, including how he didn't really have much confidence in the song when it was first written and plenty more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

23 Dec 7min

Interview by Simon Russell-WhiteThough Australia is familiar territory for the members of Better Lovers - Jordan Buckley (guitarist/ex Every Time I Die) and Will Putney (guitarist/producer/Fit For An Autopsy) - there is an air of honesty and humility about the debut Australian tour for the five piece, also featuring Greg Puciato (vocals/ex Dillinger Escape Plan/Killer be Killed & The Black Queen), Steve Micciche (bass/ex Every Time I Die) and Clayton "Goose" Holyoak (drums/ex Every Time I Die).For Jordan, it’s been 6 years since he travelled to this Great Southern Land, and when asked the obvious question about how excited the band is about finally coming out to Australia, his reply was in the form of a question: “Be honest, is it gonna be good?!"Between Jordan, Will, Greg, Steve & Clayton, the discographies, tours and (dead set) legacies these guys possess is something to be in awe of and has earned each member much respect in the industry, especially in the genre, a genre that is tackled by many and has become saturated.To give an answer on how the tour will go, made for an easy reply, one in which I hope offered reassurance of how excited the Better Lovers punters of Australia truly are!To mix things up, joining Better Lovers on the tour is the Gold Coast’s own Blind Girls and English nu metallers Split Chain. “It’s a cool, mixed bill, always love a good mixed bill,” says Putney as the conversation leans into what to expect from the tour. “Reminds me of being a kid, when I first started going to shows,” he adds, as he reminisces and reels off some absolute classic gig line ups he attended many moons ago.The band's debut album, Highly Irresponsible, came into this world just over a year ago, and more recently as a deluxe edition with some extra absolute slammers of tracks. “So grateful and doesn’t get any better,” says Buckley when discussing the reception the album has received worldwide. Be sure to check out those extra tracks, sitting at the end of such an album makes for a huge ending to it!Before you settle in and enjoy this conversation, as a collective, be it organisers, fans, even the sometimes unsung door people, can we please guarantee two things for the band?!Make sure the AC is in working order at all venues.Adelaide fans, make sure the last show of the tour, the best show of the tour. Amongst the insanity that will be Better Lovers' debut Australian tour, kicking off in Brisbane, there will no doubt be appreciation, sweet relief and a love for music that will be palpable for all involved, let’s get hot, Australia!Tickets from destroyalllines.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

22 Dec 14min

Interview by Ali WilliamsIf you’ve ever wondered what happens when progressive death metal collides head-on with a full-blown orchestra (spoiler: nobody wears a tux, but plenty of heads bang), Persefone’s latest adventure has the answer. In a good vibes interview with HEAVY Magazine’s Ali Williams, Bobby Verdeguer from Persefone takes us behind the scenes of the band’s new live album, out now, and gives us a taste of the chaos, genius, and caffeine that went into its creation. Persefone’s new release, Live In Andorra, isn’t just another concert recording—it’s a mad scientist experiment: death progressive metal and live orchestra in the same room. Recorded during a one-off orchestral show at the National Auditorium of Andorra in May 2024, the album celebrates the band’s 20-year history and their return home after a decade, featuring a full collaboration with the Orquestra Nacional Clàssica d’Andorra. Bobby admits that making a live album in today’s “attention-deficit” age is, in his words, “a stupid idea.” But when the end result is this sublime, who cares about market logic? If you want new music, you’re out of luck—this is a celebration of the band’s 20th anniversary, featuring songs from across their catalogue, played with enough complexity to make even a Swiss watch blush. What results when you have an orchestra, a death metal band, and two rehearsals—one the morning of the show? “Stressful” is an understatement. The orchestra arrived the day before the recording, and after a couple of quick run-throughs, it was showtime. The whole thing was captured live, meaning there was “extra pressure of not fucking things up,” as Bobby charmingly put it. The musical tightrope walk paid off, resulting in a performance that’s as raw as it is sophisticated. The artwork for their latest release is mint, so you know the merch is gonna slap. As for vinyl? You’d better buy two copies: “One you open, one you keep sealed for street cred.” He’s not joking about the collector mentality, either—just don’t expect to find a Persefone vinyl in a bargain bin anytime soon. Touring has been relentless, including recent festival runs in the US and a debut Australian tour with Belakor and Orpheus Omega. Oh, and if you’re ever planning to fly from Andorra to Australia, prepare for two days, four stopovers, and a test of your will to live (someone, please, sponsor these guys an airline). With the live album freshly set forth on the world, Persefone aren’t about to rest on their laurels. Upcoming plans include shows in France, a stint on the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise (yep, the floating festival of your dreams), and a US tour (still under wraps). Most importantly for fans: they’re already working on a new studio album of fresh material, aiming to top even this ambitious milestone. If you’re new to Persefone, Bobby promises this album is the perfect entry point—a wild snapshot of the band’s evolution, energy, and international weirdness. For longtime fans, it’s a high-octane victory lap, packed with classic tracks and orchestral bombast. In the immortal words of Bobby: “Go listen.” Live in Andorra is out now —get ready to be crushed, caressed, and possibly convinced you need more vinyl in your life. For more interviews, reviews, and unfiltered metal mayhem, keep it locked on HEAVY Magazine.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

22 Dec 18min

Individually, Sarah McLeod and Dallas Frasca are two of the most powerful voices in Australian rock. Not only have they both had successful careers - McLeod with The Superjesus and Frasca with her band of the same name - but they have both contributed much more to the Australian music scene via other roles within the industry. ARIA winner and South Australian Music Hall of Fame inductee Sarah McLeod, both as a solo performer and frontwoman of Australian rock legends The Superjesus, has remained a passionate advocate for change and progress within the Australian music space while APRA and AWMA nominated artist Dallas Frasca is a kindred spirit of sorts for Sarah, again another artist who has brought bold and visceral energy to her expansive catalogue of music and live performances across many years.So it should come as no surprise to find that both of their lives and careers have become entwined for the 2026 GREEN ELECTRIC TOUR, which represents both McLeod and Frasca’s ongoing commitment to sustainability; more specifically, sustainable touring. It is a highly ambitious journey into the unknown, with little by way of previous undertakings by other bands from which to use as a reference.Instead, the two have chosen to dive in headfirst, supported by Music Australia, The Harbour Agency and Spank Betty Records. The tour also supports Seed Mob, Australia’s first Indigenous youth-led climate justice organisation in their ongoing fight for climate justice. From recycled merchandise and sustainable travel routes to meat-free catering and eco-certified accommodation, every detail has been designed to minimise impact. Fans are invited to join the movement by wearing their best sustainable fashion to the gigs, and carpooling, taking public transport, walking, or riding bikes to venues wherever possible — making the audience part of the solution, not just the show.For both McLeod and Frasca, the launch of the GREEN ELECTRIC TOUR also aims to inspire other musicians, and their fans, to reconsider their own approach to experiencing live music and touring – with a shift in mindset and a turn toward more sustainable pathways, the future of this industry is greener, healthier, and more long-lasting.HEAVY was fortunate enough to nail down both Sarah and Dallas during a welcome break to their busy schedules, and we started by asking if they were prepared for the magnitude of the task they have set for themselves."It's hard, actually," Sarah replied."It is," Dallas reiterated. "I think… putting a tour together is a massive workload as it is, and even doing four weeks of touring is huge in the matrix of that. But this is a whole other element, and maybe when we get to the end of it, I think we would have gone, okay, we've sort of normalized this new thinking around things, and it will be easier. But we've got the machete out in the jungle at the moment, and we're just figuring things out. There's no one perfect way to do it either. Sarah and I have got a few non-negotiables that we can't move on, with venues and things like that. And then we're just sort of piecing things around it. So we'll make some mistakes along the way. We'll probably get to the other end and think we should have done it that way, and hopefully we'll walk in that direction afterwards, but we're learning. We are both definitely learning along the way. And it's a lot more work than your normal tour. Yes, we have put our hands on our faces many times (laughs)."In the full interview, Sarah and Dallas run through the idea behind sustainable touring and how they plan to make the run of shows as faithful to their cause as possible. They discussed some of their ideas to do that and ways in which the crowd can participate, while highlighting the fact that the very nature of touring makes it difficult to adhere strictly to some of the protocol.We talked about their musical union and the benefits of musicians investing actual time into sustainable touring, suggesting ideas along the way which would be beneficial to the planet as a whole if more people invested in them. Talk turned to an unplanned sonic union that has already blossomed, with plans already in place to film a music video for the newly written track, which you will have to watch to find out more about.The basic structure of the live shows was discussed, along with the two drummers who are special guests for the tour, with Sarah and Dallas both expressing excitement for the plethora of possibilities this one journey into sustainability can raise.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

22 Dec 21min

As with any musical experience, drumming can be either the most frustrating thing on the planet or one of the most beautiful things on Earth. It is, by very definition, the loudest part of any band, but there is far more to mastering the craft than simply being able to smash things. It takes a special kind of person to be a drummer, but still, it is nigh on impossible to outwardly say what qualities a person needs to master the craft.Which is just one of the reasons that the newly released book from The Babes' drummer Moni Lashes, THE ART OF HARD ROCK DRUMMING - A COMPREHENSIVE TOOLKIT FOR THE MODERN HARD ROCK DRUMMER, is not only a brilliant idea, but also one which may just clear some of the mystery surrounding the person who sits at the rear of the band and makes all the noise.By stripping the craft back before slowly reassembling it with an easy-to-digest handbook, Lashes has poured every ounce of her 30 years of experience into the publication, aiming to provide a complete and rounded insight into both the teachings and the pleasures of drumming. It is a book written through blood, sweat and tears, from the good times through the bad, and, most importantly, from the perspective of someone who has fought in the trenches and loves her art just as much as her passion.Featuring tutorials, play-throughs, video demonstrations and more, The Art Of Hard Rock Drumming provides an invaluable insight into the mechanics of drumming, providing tips and exercises to help everyone from beginners to seasoned veterans to help gain more understanding of what it takes to be the best and stay at the top of your game, all the while enjoying every moment of the journey.To take us deeper into the book and explain the methodology behind the words, HEAVY sat down for an engaging chat with drumming legend and author of the book, Moni Lashes."It's been really positive, and I'm very fortunate to have such support," Lashes enthused when we asked how the early reception has been. "I've had some great testimonials from drummers that I actually look up to myself, so it gives me the boost and the confidence to just keep pushing with this. I basically wrote this book as a drum educator, because when I'm not on tour with a band, I teach drums. And I grew up learning from drum books and picking and choosing things I liked. And for the authors of those books to actually give me testimonials has blown my mind."With a plethora of influences surrounding her on a daily basis, Lashes admits finding subject matter was only as difficult as she allowed it to be."The book is a combination of what I learned, my learnings and style from my teachers as well as what I find is beneficial for my students," she offered. "And a couple of my students have actually gone on to get scholarships at the conservatorium and international music colleges, so I think I've got some success stories from my method of teaching. I really believe that we need to have more kids playing instruments. I don't think we need to be so rigid and make it as boring as maybe history did. You've got to give and take and make it fun and still get the fundamentals down, which is what I hope my book does."In the full interview, Lashes emphasized the importance of structured practice, innovative teaching methods that are essential when learning to be a drummer. She outlined some of the teaching methods she has applied to the book, including the use of QR codes for video demonstrations and the role of silence over volume in enhancing performances.She highlighted certain sections of the book, running through four essential elements of learning that she has focused on. Moni explained her teaching methods and how they have been shaped through experience, offering tips and advice for beginners through to professionals, detailing how different stages or chapters of the book can be used for maximum effect.The levels of commitment required to master the drums was also discussed, with Lashes giving some valuable insights into different methods and processes which have guided her through her own personal journey. She covered more ground in select chapters, explaining the whys and hows of her teachings, and used her own experiences to relate to different levels of the learning process.Her band, The Babes, was discussed along with upcoming new music from the band, her love of performing and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

18 Dec 21min

Interview by Ali WilliamsStrap yourselves in, metalheads, because the legends in Mortal Sin are roaring back onto the scene, and they’re not tiptoeing in—they’re drop-kicking the door open and headbanging straight through it. HEAVY Mag’s Ali Williams caught up with frontman Mat Maurer for a chat. It’s been a minute (okay, a decade or so) since Mortal Sin hit the highways, but when Mat ran into Andy and Nathan at a Baby Animals gig, talk of the band’s 40th anniversary snowballed into what’s become the biggest tour in their history. They’re talking nine shows up and down the East Coast, Froth and Fury Festival in Adelaide, a Perth date, and even more to come with Part 2 hitting North Queensland, Tasmania, and (possibly) New Zealand. Hell, there might even be a Broken Hill pitstop, just to prove they’re covering every inch of Oz. And no, it’s not just the “old die-hards” crawling out of their man-caves—Mat reckons even the grandkids are getting in on the action. “All the grandkids,” he laughs. “That’s the cycle of heavy metal for you.” If you thought a mega-tour was enough, think again. Mortal Sin are celebrating with a special 40th anniversary vinyl reissue of their 1986 classic Mayhemic Destruction. But in true Mortal Sin style, there’s a twist: the cover art is so secret, only the band has seen it. “We’re even going to release it in a brown paper bag,” Mat teases. “You won’t see it till you crack it open—and trust me, you’re gonna lose your mind when you do.” Vinyl nerds, start queuing now—Mat’s even promising a splatter-wax collector’s edition.The guys are taking the mayhem global, with Germany’s Keep It True Festival on the cards, a month of shows across Europe in August, and the calendar jammed so tight they’re turning down offers from South America just to catch their breath. Locally, they’ll be headlining Shredfest in Brisbane on May 2 at The Mansfield Tavern, with more Gold Coast and regional shows in the pipeline. If you’re not planning on seeing Mortal Sin live in 2026, are you even trying? When HEAVY asked Mat for some of his most memorable highlights from decades of carnage, he rattles off support slots for Metallica’s ...And Justice For All tour and opening the main stage at Wacken in front of 60,000 maniacs. Not bad for a band that’s survived line up changes, pandemic boredom, and the rising cost of vinyl pressing (seriously, it’s not cheap). And just so you know, Mat collects PEZ dispensers—1,500 of the little suckers—Ali confesses she’s been hunting for the elusive Elvis model, and Mat says he’s still yet to find one himself. Metal never dies, and apparently, neither does novelty candy. There’s a lot of love in the air—between the band, their fans, and the sheer thrill of playing live again. There’s are weird magic that happens when artists and fans meet face-to-face, sober (usually), and sweating it out at the front of the stage. “Playing is always a highlight,” Mat says. “You can’t do that from your lounge chair.” Mortal Sin are back, bigger and rowdier than ever, serving up nostalgia with a side of fresh chaos. Don’t sleep on this—unless you’re too old to mosh, in which case, bring the grandkids and let them jump in the pit for you. Make sure you save the dates and find a local show for their 40th anniversary. Grab your tickets at www.churchesofsteel.com or hit up their Facebook page. See you on the road!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

17 Dec 13min

The turn of the century was a significant period for the nu metal scene, with the genre building off the back of a string of breakout bands from the mid to late 90s onwards that saw the rap/metal hybrid style of music surge in popularity. Bands such as Korn, Limp Bizkit, System Of A Down and Linkin Park dominated headlines, but there was also an ever-growing list that included Sevendust, P.O.D, Drowning Pool and more that played just as big a role in the development of the genre.Two of those bands were hed (pe) and Nonpoint, both of whom released memorable albums in the height of nu metal's expansion. For hed (pe) it was their second album, Broke, and for Nonpoint it was their debut, Statement. Both albums elevated the respective bands' career trajectories, and that success led to numerous tours involving hed (pe) and Nonpoint that forged an unbreakable bond between the two bands that continues to this day.Both of those albums turned 25 this year, with both remaining as poignant and relevant today as they did upon release. So much so that both bands are uniting once more for a road trip from Hell, with Australia firmly in their sights early next year. Known for their legendary live performances and explosive tracks such as Bullet with a Name, What a Day, Ruthless, and more, Nonpoint has consistently captivated audiences with infectious riffs, compelling lyrics, and an uncompromising raw energy. Their discography and stagecraft have made them staples at rock radio and fixtures on festival line ups, earning them a dedicated international following.And now they have one more reason to celebrate, one more reason to tear up the stage, and one more reason to deliver Australian audiences a full-blown sonic assault rarely seen or heard on these shores.With anticipation for the February tour intensifying by the day, HEAVY accepted the offer to spend some time with Nonpoint frontman Elias Soriano to delve into the history of Nonpoint and what we can expect from their impending visit. One of the topics of discussion was the pairing of hed (pe) and Nonpoint on the same line-up and the sense of impending doom that has developed because of it."Yeah, those guys put on a great show," he smiled. "We're glad to team up with them again. The last run was really, really fun, so we're definitely going to be enjoying some good times on this one."The two bands have been touring and playing together since the turn of the century, and we asked Elias what his memories were of those early days and if the mentality of the earlier nu metal bands was more of an us-against-them feeling."At that time, everything was really moving in a big way," he recalled. "There were a lot of bands touring at that time. The big festivals and the touring festivals were really popular, especially with OzFest and Warped Tour and festivals like that. So being a part of that and being a part of the meld of hip-hop and rock that was happening at our time, that was an interesting culture that a different type of fan gravitated towards. So it's good to tour with bands like that, that share those types of fans and share that type of show."In the full interview, Elias talks more about the upcoming tour and what to expect, Nonpoint's first visit to Australia as part of Soundwave in 2010, the early days of nu metal and what it was like playing what was essentially a new cross-pollination of music to a non-existent fan base.He recalled his first reactions to hed (pe)'s album Broke and outlined similarities between that record and Nonpoint's release in the same year, Statement. Talk diverted to the early days of Nonpoint and the musical climate that gave birth to the band, the birth and sustainability of nu metal, new music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

17 Dec 11min