Scars and Guitars

Talking metal...and some other sh!t. Featuring James McIlroy (ex-Cradle of Filth/ Summon the Wolves)

Welcome to the inaugural episode of 'Talking Metal... and some other shit,' featuring former Cradle of Filth guitarist James McIlroy. In this episode, we delve into a wide range of music-related subjects, including the evolution of music styles and the evolving role of albums in today's music industry. We also examine the often-overlooked significance of bass players, explore various aspects of the music business, and discuss the contentious practice of rerecording classic albums.
Our conversation touches on the influence of musicians such as Cliff Burton and the unique challenges of music promotion in the era of social media. Additionally, we explore topics such as online communities, controversial lyrics, media manipulation, the presence of politics in music discussions, and generational disparities. This episode aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the intersection of music with society and media.
Check out James’ new project, Summon the Wolves!
https://youtube.com/@SummonTheWolvesBand?si=lJ14Q2A98KHzg3ZY
https://www.facebook.com/summonthewolves?mibextid=2JQ9oc

Mille Petrozza (Kreator)

*Mille Petrozza on the Klash of the Titans Tour, collaborations, and current events*
Mille Petrozza discusses the upcoming Klash of the Titans tour with In Flames scheduled for February 2024. We delve into the reasons behind the collaboration with In Flames and touch upon setlists and the album 'Endorama.'
Mille also shares insights into his recent collaboration with Dani Filth and sheds light on what fans can expect from Kreator in terms of new music and upcoming projects.
We revisit a significant moment in Mille's career, the debut album 'Jesus Killing Machine' by Voodoocult, featuring Chuck Schuldiner, and discuss his memories of working with Chuck.
Additionally, we explore Mille's musical journey, including his work with Jan Peter Genkel on the Lacrimosa album 'Revolution'.
The conversation takes a turn towards current events, with Mille sharing his perspective on the world's instability, including the recent events in the Middle East. He addresses concerns regarding the rhetoric surrounding these issues and their impact on societies.
Join us for this insightful interview with Mille Petrozza, and don't forget to grab your tickets for the upcoming tour! Ticket Link: https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/in-flames-kreator

Sarah Jezebel Deva (ex- Cradle Of Filth)

Many of you have eagerly awaited an episode featuring the illustrious Sarah Jezebel Deva, easily the most requested guest for the show by a considerable margin, owing to her pivotal role in Cradle of Filth.
The journey with Sarah has been intricate and enduring. At times, it appeared as though she might have moved on, akin to Gian (John), Les, and Robin. Yet, her responses to my messages kept the flame of hope alive that one day, she would unveil insights into her tenure with Cradle and Therion. However, today's conversation delves even deeper.
These discussions serve as a platform for Cradle members to unveil long-held truths concealed for decades. The "Chronicles of Filth" has evolved into the premier platform for former members to peel away the layers of stories and narratives, reaching the core of matters or, at the very least, setting the record straight and dispelling falsehoods.
This conversation delivers everything you've been yearning for. This is Sarah, as you've never heard her before. She delves into her time with Cradle of Filth, candidly sharing her feelings and thoughts on numerous episodes from her noteworthy tenure with the group.
Sarah's musical journey extends beyond her prominent role with Cradle of Filth. In her odyssey, she boldly explored uncharted territory with "Torn Between Two Worlds," weaving intricate melodies and evocative lyrics that transcend genre boundaries, leading listeners on a profound emotional voyage. With Chris Rehn, she co-founded Angtoria, a symphonic metal sensation seamlessly blending haunting symphonic, gothic, and classical elements. Their debut album, "God Has a Plan for Us All," etched indelible marks with Sarah's commanding vocals and darkly enchanting lyrics.
Enjoy this conversation. It's full of deep reveals and character insights. Check out all of the conversations with the members of Cradle of Filth here: https://scarsandguitars.com/cradle-of-filth-conversations/

Escarion

This episode features an in-depth discussion with the members of Escarion as we explore 'Towards A Futile Existence,' the latest track. We dissect its moody, melodic death metal sound, complete with symphonic elements, intense passages, and intricate guitar work. Is this a hint of what's to come in an album or EP? We also examine the changing landscape of music consumption with social media and Spotify. Dive into our conversation about ideal tours, inspirations, band dynamics, and the art of songwriting. 
Featured band members: 
Rhys Mckenzie - Bass
Louis Surya - Guitars
Gaia Mitting - Keyboards, Vocals
John Arhondis - Guitars, Vocals

James McIlroy (ex-Cradle of Filth/ Summon the Wolves)

Throughout this conversation, James McIlroy delves into his tenure with Cradle of Filth from 2004 to 2012, including his entry into the band alongside Paul Allender. He provides insights into the band's dynamic, constantly changing lineup and the challenges he encountered during his time with the group. James also reflects on his contributions to Cradle of Filth and offers his perspective on the factors contributing to the band's frequent member changes.
Furthermore, James discusses his musical venture, Summon the Wolves, and the delicate balance he maintains between his day job, family life, and musical commitments.
This interview offers an unvarnished exploration of James McIlroy's experiences within Cradle of Filth, shedding light on the inner workings of one of metal's most intricate and continually evolving bands.

Dave Haley (Werewolves/ King/ Psycroptic)

Throughout this chat with the revered extreme metal percussive juggernaut, we delve into Werewolves' latest sonic assault, My Enemies Look And Sound Like Me, their fourth album. Dave opens up about the band's creative process, shedding light on the differences between this release and their previous album, From the Cave to the Grave, and we explore his thoughts on Werewolves' readiness to take their intense live performance abroad.
Dave reflects on the challenges and rewards of a career in the music industry, offering valuable lessons he's learned along the way. Learn about his early intentions of making music his career and the pivotal moments that shaped his path.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Dave's career is his ability to balance managerial commitments and multiple musical endeavours. He shares how he manages his time and discusses his dynamic partnership with guitarist Matt Willcock. Speaking of Matt, we uncover how their musical synergy has evolved.

New Music Show September 2023

On the Scars and Guitars September new music show Shepherds Reign will kick things off with their powerful fusion of Polynesian culture and metal, bringing a tribal spirit to the stage like you've never seen before. And who could forget the iconic metal queen, DORO, whose anthemic melodies and commanding vocals have defined the genre for decades.
Thrash metal pioneers Sadus will be there to unleash blistering riffs and relentless speed, while STAIND brings emotionally charged lyrics and raw sound.
PHIL CAMPBELL AND THE BASTARD SONS feature Phil Campbell's signature guitar riffs, and Don Broco will groove into your souls with their catchy hooks and alternative rock beats.
Prepare for an industrial metal assault from PAIN, and let Karoshi take you on an explosive journey with their heavy sound and thought-provoking lyrics.
STEVEN WILSON crafts intricate, otherworldly soundscapes that transcend the boundaries of progressive rock, while Derrick Stembridge brings his cyborg sounds. 
There's a hauntingly beautiful mix of metalcore and ethereal melodies with SPIRITBOX and dive into the darkest realms of sound with CELESTE's atmospheric black metal.
BLACKBRIAR has haunting vocals and symphonic elements, and OSAKA PUNCH infuses metal with a dose of funky energy.
Classic rock revivalists, GRAVEYARD will transport you back to the '70s with their modern twist, while Green Lung takes you on a psychedelic trip through heavy riffs with their stoner rock sound.
Eric Sardinas teleports you to the Mississippi Delta with his bluesy slide guitar and raw vocals, and OUR LAST ENEMY will assault your senses with their industrial-infused metal.
Silent Planet will explore deep and introspective themes with their progressive metalcore, and With Honor will deliver raw aggression with a message of unity through their hardcore punk.
There's a sonic assault from HEAD CLEANER with their brutal grindcore and groove to the explosive mix of punk and alternative rock from Banks Arcade.
The pioneers of brutal death metal, JOB FOR A COWBOY, will bring their signature brutality and technical precision, while Glacier Eater takes you on a journey through complex compositions with their progressive metal.
TESSERACT will mesmerize you with their djent-infused progressive metal, and CARNIFEX will deliver bone-crushing deathcore with a symphonic edge.
There's a lightning-fast guitar assault from EXMORTUS, and brace yourself for a relentless sonic assault from Fuming Mouth.
SYLOSIS combines melodic death metal with thrash elements for a headbanging experience, while CRYPTOPSY pushes the boundaries of musical complexity with their technical death metal.
The sonic storm of heaviness from SUFFOCATION and OBSCURA's progressive death metal showcases virtuosic musicianship and intricate compositions.
GO AHEAD AND DIE brings a ferocious blend of punk and thrash, and Born In Blood delivers an extreme metal assault that'll leave an indelible mark.
REBAELLIUN will unleash a relentless barrage of Brazilian death metal, and DEN SAAKALDTE will weave a cold and haunting atmosphere with their black metal.
KONTUSION combines crushing breakdowns with melodic hooks in their metalcore sound, while OCTOBER TIDE evokes a sense of melancholic beauty with their death-doom metal.
There's an auditory spectacle with IN THIS MOMENT and their theatrical twist on metalcore.
Empire de Mu pushes the boundaries of metal with their experimental sound, and Martorn takes you on a complex and emotional journey with their progressive metal.
OCEANS explores the depths of emotion with their post-metal sound, and Gravethorn delivers a dark and punishing sonic experience with their blackened death metal.
Enjoy!

Doro

In this interview, we delve into aspects of Doro's musical journey. We discuss her latest album, 'Conqueress - Forever Strong and Proud,' and whether she ventured into any new territories in its creation. Additionally, we explore her collaboration with Rob Halford on the Judas Priest classic 'Living After Midnight,' the possibility of an Australian tour, and her connection with guitarist Bill Hudson. Doro shares insights into the musicians who contributed to the album and recalls memorable interactions with her devoted fans. She also sheds light on her pre-performance rituals and any creative outlets beyond music. We touch on her enduring motivation in the music industry and how she handles controversy and criticism. Doro talks about navigating the complexities of staying true to her art in the age of social media. Finally, she shares her memories of Lemmy, one of her dear friends.

Erik Miehs (The Amenta)

In this interview with Erik Miehs of The Amenta, we discuss the title track from their EP, "Plague of Locus," and its relation to their evolving songwriting direction. Erik sheds light on the diverse range of covers featured in "Plague of Locus," spanning from local black metal acts like NAZXUL and LORD KAOS to global alternatives such as ALICE IN CHAINS, DIAMANDA GALAS, and KILLING JOKE, with unexpected detours into chaotic renditions of WOLF EYES, HALO, and MY DYING BRIDE. We also touch upon their memorable Emperor show at Eatons Hill, captured on video as "Ego Ergo Sum," and Erik's background as an audio engineer. Lastly, he shares recollections from his time in Crucible of Agony.

Jonas Renkse (Katatonia)

Many topics were delved into in this conversation with Jonas Renkse of Katatonia. These included their upcoming tour in Australia scheduled for February 2024, resuming touring after a COVID-induced break, the meticulous care taken to preserve Renkse's unique vocal style during extensive tours, and the reception of Katatonia's 2023 album, "Sky Void of Stars." Furthermore, our discussion delved into the early days of Katatonia, potential rivalries with Gothenburg bands, memorable anecdotes from that era, the band's distinct emphasis on mood over speed and precision, the allocation of songs between Katatonia and Bloodbath, the challenges of juggling roles in two bands, Dan Swanö's impact on the Swedish extreme metal scene, and Renkse's visionary outlook for the future of heavy metal and extreme music.