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

After a relatively quiet year by their standards - which included shows earlier this year with Pantera - Australia's favourite slice of brutality, King Parrot, are set to end the year with a band with their When The Weed Meets The Speed Australian Tour which kicks off at Mo's Desert Clubhouse on November 6.King Parrot have always done things their own way and at their own pace, and as such not too many rumblings have been heard from fans despite the band's inactivity on the touring circuit.They know that the boys must be getting shit done.And get shit done they have, bringing out North Carolina's stoner rockers Weedeater to join Australian acts Astrodeath and Choof for a tour that promises as much feverish musical chaos as you can stand. Between the four bands, there's elements of doom, sludge, thrash, stoner, grind and deathcore, and you don't have to be a scientist to know that that is a recipe just waiting for sonic disaster.The reason for King Parrot's neglecting of their flock? A new album. And one which vocalist Matt Young promises will be everything you expect from King Parrot and more. Then there's the little things about a European and UK tour early next year with a band called Pantera. You might have heard of them?Even when they're quiet, they are rowdy. Bless their Alisterus scapularis (look it up).Not knowing where to start, HEAVY sat down for a chat with Youngy earlier this week to try and get up to speed on what King Parrot have been doing while they've been doing nothing."Mate, we're ready to go," he said of the upcoming run of shows. "It's good man, it's exciting. We had a couple of months off playing shows and all that sort of stuff because we've been really focussing on the new record and getting the finishing touches done. Just spending time in the studio and focussing on that. Now it's getting to that point where we're ready to play again. Ready to hit the road and do what we do, then hopefully start unleashing this new record next year. In the meantime, we're gonna smash out a big Aussie tour and get around the country and see our people."In the full interview, Youngy expressed enthusiasm about supporting the music scene by bringing up-and-coming bands on tour. We spoke about the diverse range of bands on the tour, describing it as "fucking brutal" and "awesome". Matt also highlighted the importance of having time to hang out with the bands in different locations, which he believes will contribute to the tour's success.Matt mentioned that they usually rehearse a few days before the tour, focusing on putting on the best show possible. He also shared that they have played many shows and tours, and have a good understanding of what works best for them. He also discussed the importance of audience interaction and energy during their performances. Matt confirmed that they love audience banter and feeding off their energy.Matt discussed the progress of their new album, which has been in the works for the best part of a year. He mentioned that they have been working on it organically, with a focus on jamming and improvisation, which he believes adds to the fluidity of their songs. Matt also shared that they have been recording in a studio, taking their time with the mixing process and getting feedback from everyone involved. He expressed excitement about the album's release next year and the opportunity for fans to hear new songs at their upcoming shows. Matt also mentioned that they are unlikely to release a single before Christmas, preferring to roll out the album next year.We also broached the exciting news that King Parrot is set to join Pantera and Power Trip for a run of shows in Europe and the UK next year, plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

19 Okt 202421min

Raw, honest, explosive. DELLACOMA is a brash and hard hitting rock n roll project featuring the talents of passionate and energetic frontman Dellacoma Rio. With a relevant yet familiar sound, a relentless work ethic and an exotic yet somehow natural formation this 5-piece outfit is primed and set to ignite.After almost 4 years of exhaustive touring across Australia, USA, UK and Europe in support of their debut album, South of Everything, 2019 saw the band take a touring break while Rio began work on the second album Blood which was released in 2021. 2023 saw the return to international touring with the band’s first USA tour since 2018.The band have just released their new single, More Than Survival, which is the first track taken from their upcoming third album. HEAVY sat down with Dellacoma Rio to get all the latest."It's a fairly heavy song," he admitted about More Than Survival. "It's quite sludgy, I guess, in a way. Quite grungy. I write it during lockdowns in Melbourne and observationally I'd been through… The years prior to COVID had been quite difficult for me personally, and then we hit 2020, and in my head I thought 2020 was going to be where I'd start going up (laughs). So lockdown was quite depressing for a lot of people, but the song itself is about sitting there and feeling like you've just been keeping your nose above water."In the full interview, we discussed releasing the audio and music video for More Than Survival one week apart and why, highlighting the shorter attention spans of music consumers in the modern age. Rio also revealed that More Than Survival is the first song from Dellacoma's next and third album. The song, written during Melbourne's lockdowns, is described as heavy and grungy, reflecting Rio's personal struggles and the general mood during the lockdown period.He emphasized the importance of personal fulfilment and perspective in life, and shared his approach to music creation, stating that he only produces music he genuinely enjoys and believes in. The upcoming album was talked about more, which will feature a mix of heavier and lighter songs, reflecting the struggles and hopes of the past four years. We also talked about the current line-up of Dellacoma, which includes Rob Moody and John Justice, upcoming shows, signing to XMusic and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

19 Okt 202429min

TISM return armed with a tantalising trifecta, with their first headline run since 2004 in October and November. The upcoming Death To Art Tour is bound to go down in Australian music history, with TISM set to be joined by fellow Aussie icons ESKIMO JOE, MACHINE GUN FELLATIO, BEN LEE and THE MAVIS'S.With four of the country's most iconic acts teaming up for the Death To Art Tour, this historic run of shows not only mark these as TISM's first headline shows over two decades, it sees fellow sonic scoundrels MACHINE GUN FELLATIO reform for the first time in 19 years, as well as THE MAVIS'S reforming for the first time in six years.Releasing a brand new single I've Gone Hillsong in 2022, the group's first new material in close to 20 years, TISM also teased at the time an album which did not exist. Fast-forward to 2024, and TISM have since released a new EP, 2023's The "C" Word, complete with caterwauling commentary and chaotic charisma. And, most recently, the beloved unruly collective have ventured into a brand new chapter, with their new full length album Death To Art, out now.TISM have retained their anonymous and cult-like status since first forming back in the early 1980s. Laced with nihilistic humour and gleeful sarcasm, as well as a razor-sharp penchant for hybrid dance, pop and rock, TISM may have kept their identities a secret all this time, but their impact on the Australian musical landscape remains undeniable.HEAVY got the rare opportunity to share some time with TISM, and, as you would expect, things got a little crazy. Listen to the full interview above.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

18 Okt 202429min

For the first time ever and finally, legendary extreme Dutch metal act PESTILENCE conquer Australian territory when they hit our shores for a run of shows next month. PESTILENCE was one of the first major bands to emerge from the Dutch metal underground of the 1980’s. While all the other groups from that era have since vanished into ancient history, PESTILENCE is as vital, relevant, and ambitious as ever. In their early beginnings the band wrote history with its albums Consvming Impvlse, Testimony Of The Ancients and Spheres – all albums that helped shape death metal as we know it.HEAVY recently spent some time with founding member and vocalist Patrick Mameli to find out more.In the full interview, we discussed Pestilence's upcoming tour in Australia, which will be their first time in the country. Patrick expressed gratitude to Dave Haley for making the tour possible, and shared his preference for experiencing new places without prior expectations. Patrick emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality music. He also talked about their performance at Froth & Fury Festival and who he was most looking forward to seeing. The conversation then shifted to the history and evolution of the band Pestilence, with Patrick explaining the band's style evolution from thrash metal to death metal. He also mentioned what kept him coming back to the project despite disbanding and reforming a number of times over the years.We delved into the past, present and future of Pestilence, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

18 Okt 20249min

If there were ever two words (well, three technically) that should not go together, they would be Buddhism and death metal. In fact, the words almost naturally repel from each other just saying them out loud. But if there's one thing the cheesy wave of Jean-Claude Van Damme movies taught us is to never say never, so when your path next crosses - or could even potentially cross - that of Buddhist death metal outfit Dharma cast aside everything you thought you knew of right and wrong and instead prepare for what has been widely dubbed as a "fascinating and brutal" experience.And before you ask, Dharma aren't one of those bands who saw something they thought would make a good gimmic and ran with it, they are actually from Taiwan and are practising Buddhists. Which means what you get is an impassioned and fully immersive experience of something you will likely never see again in your lifetime.Unless Dharma tour again.The band are making their way to Australia for the first time in November, dipping their toes in to gauge the response with just two select shows. But aren't they both crackers!Dharma make their debut Australian performance as part of Froth & Fury Festival in Adelaide on November 9 before heading to Melbourne the following day to play with Pestilence then heading home. Not a bad one, two for your first visit.HEAVY took the opportunity to chat with vocalist Joe Henley earlier today to peel back the curtain of a band who embrace every passion in life and have blended them together to create something crushing and unique.In the full interview, Joe expressed excitement about Dharma's first visit to Australia and their anticipation for the passionate fans and lively atmosphere. He also mentioned that they have high expectations for the tour and are looking forward to exceeding them. We discussed their excitement for Froth & Fury Festival and the bands they were looking forward to seeing. Joe emphasized the importance of building relationships with fans and the potential for long-lasting friendships.He shared the history of the band, explaining Dharma was formed a few years ago by Jack, the band's drummer, who has been a devout Buddhist since birth. He wanted to merge Buddhism with extreme metal, but faced challenges in finding like-minded individuals. Eventually, he managed to bring together members from various bands, including Andy from Demise, a death metal band, and Joe from Revilement and Stench of Lust. They created demos and presented them to Buddhist communities, who gave their blessing for the band to proceed. Dharma has since played shows in Taiwan, India, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia, with their live shows described as fascinating and brutal. The band's performances include a Buddhist nun, Master Cheng Yen, who begins the show with a blessing and sings in between songs. Joe emphasized that their goal is not to convert people, but to provide a unique experience that exposes attendees to something different.Joe discussed the challenges of balancing tradition and innovation in their music, which combines metal and Buddhist elements. He mentioned that while it was initially daunting, they have found a more natural approach as they refine their sound. Joe also addressed concerns about potential backlash from traditionalists, stating that they have been generally welcoming and open-minded. He attributed this to the Buddhist tradition's emphasis on intention and purity of motivation, which he believes comes through in their music and conduct.Joe shared stories about Dharma's shows, including a memorable one where a fan crowd-surfed in the lotus position, which became a recurring theme at their performances. HEAVY then asked Joe about some photos from their social media, which led to discussions about a show at a temple in the mountains, a traffic jam on New Year's Eve, and their drummer's massive drum set, plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

15 Okt 202424min

Interview by Angela CroudaceTim Kasher, the visionary frontman of Omaha-based band Cursive, delved into the creative journey behind their tenth album, Devourer. "We're pretty stoked on it," Kasher remarked, reflecting on the extensive work that went into this release following a four-year hiatus since their last album in 2019.Kasher described the album as a significant departure from the band's previous two releases, Vitriola and Get Fixed, which he labelled as "more angsty" and "less melodic." He elaborated, "We took a moment during the pandemic to reassess our catalogue. I wanted Devourer to be a more eclectic record." This desire for variety is evident in the album, which captures the essence of Cursive's roots while pushing new boundaries.One of the standout tracks from the album, Bloodbath, has been brought to life through a unique music video featuring Shannon Purser from Stranger Things and Aurora Perrineau from Westworld. Kasher explained the collaborative nature of the project: "We didn't give the directors any parameters. We said, 'This is the budget, and we want to see your vision.'" This approach resulted in an imaginative interpretation that blends elements of a "female fight club" with the emotional depth typical of Cursive's work.Drawing on his influences, Kasher cited authors like Cormac McCarthy and Stephen King, whose dark themes resonate with the band's music. "Cormac McCarthy has this extremely realistic take on humanity," he shared. "I think Stephen King is influential for everyone in some way. He's like the Edgar Allan Poe of our generation."As the band gears up for their upcoming tour, Kasher expressed enthusiasm for performing live, especially with the added challenge of recreating complex arrangements from the album. "We have two drummers on Devourer, and we're attempting to bring that energy to the stage," he noted.Kasher's passion for music and connection with fans was palpable as he reflected on the live experience. "It's important to remember that for the audience, this may be the first time they're hearing these songs. We owe it to them to give our all," he emphasized. This dedication has earned Cursive a reputation for electrifying performances, with fans often remarking that each show feels unique.Finally, he touched on the legacy of the 2003 album, The Ugly Organ, acknowledging its profound impact on listeners. "We didn't expect anything from that record," he said, "The further out on a limb we went, the more people connected with it. It's a lesson in authenticity that I hope resonates with other artists."As Cursive embarks on this new chapter with Devourer, Kasher's reflections on the past and present underscore the band's commitment to exploring new musical landscapes while remaining true to their roots.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

15 Okt 202419min

Where you come from often has a profound impact on where you eventually go in life. While some people choose to focus on the negatives of any given situation, there are others who find beauty and inspiration in even the most unlikely places.These people are generally the ones who achieve their goals.Hailing from the tiny village of Syðrugøta on the Faroe Islands, vocalist Eivør grew up surrounded by the harsh, windswept landscape of the North Atlantic, and it informs her music perfectly. With ten studio albums to her name, as well as numerous collaborations with artists including Àsgeir, John Grant, Einar Selvik (Wardruna) and Dan Heath (Lana Del Ray) Eivør can be considered to be one of the most eclectic artists of the Nordics and one of the most mesmerising live vocalists of her generation.Eivor is making her way to Australia next month, performing three intimate and spellbinding headline shows with her full band, plus also supporting Heilung on their national tour.With a new album, Enn, to showcase and a new fan base to conquer, Eivor joined HEAVY recently to discuss the tour and the wonders of music."Oh my goodness, I'm so excited to come to Australia," she beamed. "I've never been there before, and it's always been on my bucket list. Finally, I get to come."We ask what she is expecting from Australian crowds."I don't know really what to expect," she laughed. "Aren't they more rowdy? I can imagine they are, I don't know why (laughs)."In the full interview, Eivor shared her preference for taking things as they come when touring a country for the first time, but mentioned that she has heard great things about Australia from friends. She shared that she would be playing a mix of new and older tracks from her 10th studio album during her shows.Eivør discussed her musical influences and roots, revealing that her music is deeply influenced by her upbringing in the Faroe Islands. She explained that her music is a mix of various elements, but remains rooted in her Faroese roots. Eivør also mentioned that she often sings in her native language, which contributes to the unique sound of her music. She further noted that the music culture of the Faroe Islands, which is primarily acapella based, has a significant impact on her creations. HEAVY asked about the use of traditional instruments in her music, to which Eivør responded that while there are no traditional instruments in Faroese music, she incorporates a variety of instruments in her compositions.She discussed performing with her band, including playing electric guitar and a shaman drum. She also mentioned her involvement in the Netflix series, The Last Kingdom, where she contributed to the soundtrack. Eivør revealed plans for three intimate headline shows in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Auckland. She also talked about her latest album, which has been well-received, and how excited she is to tour with the material plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

15 Okt 202415min

Interview by Angela CroudaceRyan Goldemann, lead singer and guitarist of Mother Mother, discussed the band’s latest album with HEAVY, Grief Chapter, which dives deep into themes of death and existentialism while simultaneously celebrating the beauty of life.“Grief Chapter is kind of like a concept album around death and grief and mourning,” Goldemann explains. “But it’s not as sad as it sounds. It’s more about using those things as a way to inspire and appreciate the gift of existence.” He notes that the album exudes a newfound confidence, with sonics described as “really tough and almost muscular.” The band spent nearly 100 days recording at Bryan Adams’ studio in Vancouver, which Goldemann fondly describes as a “luxurious” experience.Reflecting on the band’s recent tour in Australia, he shares, “It was amazing. It was more than you could ever ask for an entrance into a new market… There were a couple thousand kids in Sydney!” The overwhelming support has made a significant impact as the band expands their reach.Social media has also played a crucial role in their growth, particularly on platforms like TikTok. “It’s wonderful. Yeah, life changing,” Goldemann says of their songs gaining traction online. “We’re just thrilled that we’ve been able to connect with all these new people through TikTok.” The band has embraced this new medium, even participating in duets and responding to fans directly.Mother Mother has also developed a strong following within the LGBTQIA community. “We weren’t writing specifically for that community; we just wrote about the human condition in a broad way,” Goldemann explains. He appreciates the organic nature of this connection, recognising that it arose without any contrived intent.When discussing the themes present in the new album, he emphasizes the exploration of existentialism and spirituality, stating, “We just wanted to capture the band as successfully as possible.” He acknowledges their evolution over the years, attributing their growth to the resources they’ve gained as a full band. “With the resources came more experimentation,” he explains. “Now, with Grief Chapter, it’s a bit of a mix of everything.”Goldemann shares a few personal favourites from their catalogue, highlighting Hayloft 2 as a crowd favourite for its energy and ease of performance. In contrast, he cherishes playing Grief Chapter for its emotional depth, which fosters a profound connection with the audience.The band’s visual aesthetics are equally captivating. Goldemann discusses their collaboration with filmmaker Colin Minihan for the music video of Explode. “We just wanted it to be kind of psychedelic and a good portrayal of the band performing,” he says, emphasising a desire for authenticity over a complex narrative.As for current musical inspirations, Goldemann cites Adrian Linker from Big Thief as an interesting talent he's been enjoying lately. “She is quite a profound talent,” he states.Mother Mother continue to pBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

14 Okt 202414min