Scars and Guitars

Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda (Cradle of Filth)

Marek 'Ashok' Šmerda of Cradle of Filth opens up about his journey with the band, diving into the songwriting process and how he balances their iconic sound with his influences. He offers insights into live performances, the curation of setlists, and the enduring legacy of Cradle of Filth. Ashok discusses his diverse musical inspirations, ranging from classical composers to multi-instrumentalists, explaining how these influences shape his unique approach to metal. He also sheds light on the origins of his nickname and shares some of his lesser-known creative inspirations. Additionally, he addresses the band’s dynamic, revealing how he navigates challenges and resolves conflicts within the group. 
Check out all the conversations with Cradle members and almuni: https://scarsandguitars.com/cradle-of-filth-conversations/ 
Tickets to the November 2024 Australian shows: https://metropolistouring.com/cradle-of-filth-2024/ 
 

Kai Uwe Faust, Christopher Juul, and Maria Franz (Heilung)

This episode features Kai Uwe Faust, Christopher Juul, and Maria Franz of the groundbreaking Nordic folk ensemble Heilung. Known for their distinctive style, they describe it as "amplified history," the trio discusses their unique approach to music, blending ancient Nordic traditions with modern sensibilities. They offer insights into their creative process, the spiritual depth of their performances, and the challenges of bringing their ritualistic music to audiences worldwide. The conversation also explores their pre-show rituals and any ambitions to perform at ancient, sacred sites across the globe. They also share how the spirit world features on a recording. Though the chat is brief, it's packed with thought-provoking content.
https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/heilung-2024

Matt Wilcock (Abramelin/ Werewolves/ Shotgun Mistress/ The Antichrist Imperium/ Faustian)

Guitarist par excellence Matt Wilcock talks about the new album from Abramelin, Sins of the Father. It is his 12th since 2020 and features his collaboration with renowned percussionist Dave Haley. We discuss any new approaches used on this album and details about the upcoming tour with Pestilence. We'll also cover his recent performance in Japan with Shotgun Mistress, his views on turning music into a full-time job, and much more.
‘Conflagration Of The Dreamers’: www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5zLWsnGWkc
Stream: https://abramelin1.bandcamp.com/music
Pre-order: https://direct-merch.com/collections/abramelin
‘Sins Of The Father’ album released via Hammerheart Records. 
www.facebook.com/abramelinofficial
Instagram: @abramelin_australia

Henri Sattler (God Dethroned)

Henri Sattler of God Dethroned discusses his career, from the debut album The Christhunt to the new release The Judas Paradox. We explore collaborations, touring memories, and the return to occult themes. Henri shares insights on album production and his perspective on social and political issues. We also discuss the band's evolution, including lineup changes and their critically acclaimed album Under The Sign Of The Iron Cross.
More on GOD DETHRONED:goddethroned.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | RPM

"Death to the World" and Apocalyptic Theological Aesthetics - A conversation with Robert Saler

Robert Saler discusses his fascinating book '"Death to the World" and Apocalyptic Theological Aesthetics'. Saler explores the unique blend of punk rock culture and Orthodox spirituality in the "Death to the World" movement, offering insights into contemporary U.S. Orthodoxy. We cover the movement's impact on religious structures, its critique of modernity, and its apocalyptic themes.
Read a sample of the book here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/-death-to-the-world-and-apocalyptic-theological-aesthetics-robert-cady-saler/ebook/9780567704481.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqijx3Ft89wX_WbReUzQgNJPZiz7PceJ5GQDRhHJTZbeIJ62nqY
Purchase the book here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/au/death-to-the-world-and-apocalyptic-theological-aesthetics-9780567704443/
Background: Robert is an Associate Dean for Evaluation and Assessment, Associate Professor of Theology and Culture, and Executive Director of the Center for Pastoral Excellence and the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program at the Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis.

Steve Harris (Iron Maiden/ British Lion) - Part 2

Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris discusses his Australian tour experiences and the reception to British Lion. He shares insights on Iron Maiden's current tour, setlist creation, and potential song choices. Harris reflects on the band's musical evolution and long-standing partnership with Bruce Dickinson. The interview covers his use of Lado basses throughout Powerslave, recent media appearances, and his role as a spokesperson for the band. Harris also touches on personal interests, including West Ham United, and discusses challenges he's faced in the music industry.

Dale Stewart (Seether)

Seether's new album, The Surface Seems So Far, is available on September 20. Dale talks about the album and touring life, providing deep insight into his perspective on life in South Africa - an insightful chat with a good bloke. 
https://found.ee/TheSurfaceSeemsSoFar 

Steve Harris (Iron Maiden/ British Lion)

Steve Harris joins the show ahead of the Australian shows with British Lion and Iron Maiden. We explore whether British Lion allows for deeper lyrical exploration and comparisons to Iron Maiden. He shares thoughts on Bruce Dickinson's Mandrake Project, the recent reunion with Paul Di'Anno, and how fan interactions have shaped his legacy. We also examine Iron Maiden's themes concerning social and political climates, potential collaborations with contemporary artists, and the challenges metal faced in the mid-90s. Plus, there's plenty of bass talk!
British Lion Tour Dates:
Saturday, 31st August – Perth, Magnet House
Tuesday, 3rd September – Adelaide, Lion Arts Factory
Thursday, 5th September – Melbourne, Croxton Bandroom
Monday, 9th September – Brisbane, The Triffid
Wednesday, 11th September – Sydney, Manning
Tickets available: Get yours here
Iron Maiden Australian Tour Dates:
Sunday, 1st September – Perth, RAC Arena
Wednesday, 4th September – Adelaide, Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Friday, 6th September & Saturday, 7th September – Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena
Tuesday, 10th September – Brisbane, Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Thursday, 12th September & Friday, 13th September – Sydney, Qudos Bank Arena
Monday, 16th September – Auckland, Spark Arena
Tickets available: Get yours here
 

Olof Mörck (Amaranthe)

Olof Mörck of Amaranthe discusses the band's upcoming Australian tour, which will run from late August through September. The tour will feature songs from their new album, The Catalyst, produced by Jacob Hansen and released by Nuclear Blast. Olof reflects on his development as a musician and its impact on Amaranthe's direction. He addresses critical influences on the band's path and the role of technology in their music production and live performances. The discussion includes how Amaranthe manages creative differences among its multiple vocalists and instrumentalists. 
Olof also comments on how Amaranthe's music relates to current social and political issues and the themes they plan to explore in their future work. He provides insights into the band's visual presentation and its significance. Finally, Olof shares his perspective on the future of music consumption and the evolving relationship between artists and fans, outlining Amaranthe's strategy for adapting to changes in the music industry.
 
AMARANTHE 2024 Australian Tour Dates
Tuesday 27 August – The Gov, ADELAIDE
Wednesday, 28 August – Metropolis Fremantle, PERTH
Friday 30 August – Metro Theatre, SYDNEY
Saturday 31 August – Northcote Theatre, MELBOURNE
Sunday 1 September – The Tivoli, BRISBANE
Tickets: https://davidroywilliams.com/tours/amaranthe/ and  https://metropolistouring.com/amaranthe-2024/
 

Oscar Dronjak (Hammerfall)

In this conversation, we uncover why it took nearly 30 years for HammerFall to tour Australia, dive into their latest album, Avenge The Fallen, and explore Oscar’s unique guitar style. He also shares unforgettable memories from touring with Chuck Schuldiner, reflects on the early days with Jesper Strömblad and Mikael Stanne, discusses his Serbian heritage, and much more. 
 
HAMMERFALL January 2025 Australian Tour Dates
Tuesday 14th January PERTH, Metro Fremantle
Wednesday 15th January ADELAIDE, Lion Arts
Friday 17th January  MELBOURNE, Northcote Theatre
Saturday 18th January  SYDNEY, Manning Bar
Sunday 19th January BRISBANE, The Triffid
 
Tickets: https://thephoenix.au/