Scars and Guitars

Michael Weikath (Helloween)

**Final episode alert**
In this conversation with Michael from Helloween, he discusses the band's 2025 album, Giants & Monsters. He offers his opinion on various episodes throughout the band's multi-decade career, including the albums Pink Bubbles Go Ape, Chameleon, and Dark Ride. So much more for you to wrap your ears around in a fitting finale for the show. 
It's been a blast, and this episode is a fitting end to the show's 8 years on air. Thank you to all who have listened and supported the show! There is a special message for you at the end of this episode. 
https://www.helloween.org/

Eric Jarrin (Despised Icon)

Eric Jarrin, guitarist and co-producer of Montreal deathcore outfit Despised Icon, discusses their new album, Shadow Work, including lyrical themes and inspirations. Eric answers questions about political stability in Montreal and Canada, shares his thoughts on AI, and offers his view on the future of social media, including digital IDs and more. This is one of the final episodes, likely ever, for Scars and Guitars. Enjoy!
https://despisedicon.com/ 
 

Eero Sipilä (Battle Beast)

Battle Beast bassist and songwriter Eero Sipilä reflects on the band's seventh album, Steelbound, set for release on October 17, 2025, via Nuclear Blast. Eero also discusses influences, the likelihood of the band achieving success, and what he hopes the future holds. 
Media & Pre-Order
Pre-order Steelbound: Link
Watch the video for “Angel of Midnight”: YouTube
Listen to “Angel of Midnight”: Link
Official Website: battlebeast.fi
Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | X

Examining media statements from Zoë M. Federoff, Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda, and Dani Filth

This episode examines statements from Zoë M. Federoff, Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda, and Dani Filth, focusing on the acrimonious departure of Zoë and Marek from Cradle of Filth. Ben Williamson of Dusk Cult was invited to discuss his perspective. 

Elliott Sansom (Be'lakor/ Dusk Cult)

Elliott Sansom shares insight into his tenure as the band's drummer and percussionist, including how he joined the group and an opportunity to reflect on what being in a group means to him. The Melbourne-based melodic death metal outfit, known for their progressive structures and immersive soundscapes, is gearing up for their east coast Australian tour in October 2025 to celebrate 20 years of live performances. Sansom joined Be'lakor in 2016, replacing Jimmy Vanden Broeck, and has since contributed to their acclaimed album, Coherence (2021), bringing years of experience from his other bands, Dusk Cult and Okera. 
BE'LAKOR Australian Tour Dates - October 2025 With Persefone and Orpheus Omega
Thursday, October 9th: Crowbar, Brisbane, QLD w/ Aeon Nexus
Friday, October 10th: Factory Theatre, Sydney, NSW w/ Evocatus
Saturday, October 11th: The Croxton, Melbourne, VIC w/ Naberus
Tickets: On sale now
Brisbane & Melbourne: www.oztix.com.au 
Sydney: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com 
Adelaide: www.moshtix.com.au 

Jeff Sahyoun (Letlive)

Letlive guitarist Jeff Sahyoun discusses the band’s Australian tour in September, marking their return after an eight-year hiatus. He reflects on navigating the challenges of the music industry, finding inspiration in everyday life, and the impact of artificial intelligence on music. 
Letlive. Australian Tour Dates - September 2025
Friday, September 5th: The Triffid, Brisbane, QLD
Saturday, September 6th: Manning Bar, Sydney, NSW
Sunday, September 7th: Max Watts, Melbourne, VIC
Tuesday, September 9th: Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide, SA
Wednesday, September 10th: Magnet House, Perth, WA
Tickets: Available at The Phoenix

Phil Campbell (Motörhead/ The Bastard Sons)

Phil Campbell, guitarist of Motörhead, discusses the upcoming Australian tour with his band Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons in September. He shares stories from his life on the road with Motörhead, what he misses most about the late Lemmy Kilmister, and the unique experience of performing alongside his three sons, Todd, Tyla, and Dane, in his current band. The conversation dives into the dynamics of family collaboration, the legacy of Motörhead, and the setlist for the Australian shows, which will feature Motörhead classics
Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons Australian Tour Dates - September 2025
Tuesday, September 16th: The Rosemount, Perth, WA
Wednesday, September 17th: Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide, SA
Friday, September 19th: Eatons Hill, Brisbane, QLD
Saturday, September 20th: Manning Bar, Sydney, NSW
Sunday, September 21st: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC
Tickets and Information: The Phoenix
 
 

Steven Wilson

Steven Wilson: Discussing The Overview and Australian Tour in November 2025
Steven Wilson shares details about his Australian tour in November 2025, which serves as the catalyst for his appearance on the show. He discusses his latest album, The Overview, and how it integrates into the live show he is bringing to Australia. Wilson also talks about the band he is working with for the tour, and the conversation highlights some of his notable production and mixing work, including his contributions to Anathema. Additionally, he sheds light on what happened with the remixes of the Use Your Illusion album series, as well as other engaging topics.
Steven Wilson Australian Tour Dates – November 2025
Wednesday, November 12th: Astor Theatre, Perth, WA
Thursday, November 13th: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide, SA
Saturday, November 15th: The Forum, Melbourne, VIC
Sunday, November 16th: ICC Darling Harbour Theatre, Sydney, NSW
Monday, November 17th: QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane, QLD
Tickets and Information: Teamwrk Touring

Mat Sinner (Primal Fear/ Sinner)

In this comprehensive and engaging interview, Primal Fear bassist and co-founder Mat Sinner discusses the band’s upcoming album, Domination, set for release on September 5, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music. Sinner reflects on how Domination synthesises lessons from his extensive discography, spanning from Sinner’s debut album Wild ‘n’ Evil (1982) to the present day. He explores the evolution of his songwriting, production techniques, and the integration of new band members, while addressing the challenges faced during the album’s creation, including his recent health struggles. The conversation also covers a range of topics, offering insights into his multifaceted career.
Connect with Primal Fear
Official Website: primalfear.de
Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | Reigning Phoenix Music

Uli John Roth

Uli Jon Roth discusses his Australian tour in September 2025 as part of his Pictures of Destiny world tour. He provides insights into the setlist, revealing songs he won’t be playing, and reflects on his profound influence on American thrash metal giants like Metallica and Megadeth. Roth also shares his perspective on issues affecting humanity and the Western hemisphere, alongside other fascinating topics.
Known for his groundbreaking work with The Scorpions and his solo career, Roth will perform a “best of” Scorpions set alongside highlights from his extensive catalogue, showcasing his inimitable guitar style.
Uli Jon Roth Australian Tour Dates - September 2025
Adelaide: Sept 4/ venue details available via Oztix
Melbourne: Sept 5/ venue details available via Oztix
Sydney: Sept 3/ venue details available via Moshtix
All things Uli: https://ujr.info