Scars and Guitars

Brian 'Itztlakamayeh' Ortiz (Tzompantli)

Learn about the inspiration behind Tzompantli from ringleader Brian 'Itztlakamayeh' Ortiz through his reflection on the band's identity and music. We explore the motivation behind blending indigenous/native rituals, history, and lore into their death/doom metal sound and Brian shares how traditional instruments enhance the band's new album, Beating The Drums Of Ancestral Force. We get to the bottom of how cohesion was maintained, with over ten musicians contributing to the album, and explore the significance of collaborating with members from different bands. I also gain insight into the creative process of recording, producing, and mastering the album. 
Beating The Drums Of Ancestral Force is out now on LP, CD, MC, and digital platforms. Orders at the label webshop here.

Acolyte Of The Foul Ones (Altar of Gore)

The Acolyte Of The Foul Ones leads Altar of Gore, a New Jersey death metal band, with its new album, Litanies Of The Unceasing Agonies. We talk about the sound's evolution, drawing from epic fantasy series for lyrical inspiration and exploring obscure cult rites. We delve into how their focus on flesh, blood, and bone over occult spirituality shapes their music and lyrics. Plus, we cover their creative process, visual imagery, and what's ahead for Altar of Gore.
Litanies Of The Unceasing Agonies is now available on LP, CD, and digital platforms. Order now at Bandcamp. The band's collective/label NVNM is also planning a cassette version.

Serena Cherry (Svalbard)

In this episode, Serena from Svalbard joins me for a laid-back conversation. Amidst a whirlwind of interviews, ours stood out as the informal gem among the earnest queries from eager indie journalists. Despite the relaxed atmosphere, we still discussed some intriguing topics, including Australia's unique traits, the prime spots for rollercoaster enthusiasts while on tour, the world of psychedelics, and, naturally, insights into Svalbard's tour.
Destroy All Lines Presents: SVALBARD (UK) w/ special guests RUN Thursday 23.05 - Lynotts Lounge, PERTH Friday 24.05 - Crowbar, SYDNEY Saturday 25.05 - Soapbox, BRISBANE Sunday 26.05 - Howler, MELBOURNE TICKETS: https://daltours.cc/svalbard

Lena Scissorhands (Infected Rain)

In this conversation with Lena of Infected Rain, we explore her experience aboard the 2024 edition of the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise, her insights on Australian audiences, and the excitement for the upcoming September 2024 shows with Cradle of Filth. Lena also shares her hopes and aspirations for the future, reflecting on experiences living under the hammer and enduring the long shadow of socialism and the Soviet Union in Moldova.

David Stepanavicius (ATRÆ BILIS)

I caught up with David Stepanavicius from ATRÆ BILIS to discuss their latest album, Aumicide. We talk about the evolution from 2021's Apexapien, the intense themes behind "Inward to Abraxas," and the stunning visuals that bring the track to life. 
David also illuminates the collaboration behind the album's cover art and discusses the raw energy of Aumicide, shaped by Cyberdyne slams and vocal experiments. With more touring on the horizon, we explore their preparation and what fans can expect to live. 
Something else, David is an Aussie ex-pat living in Canada so it was great to hear that he is going great and capturing the attention of extreme metal fans across North America!
https://www.facebook.com/atraebilis

Robert Saler (Theologian, scholar, and author)

Robert Saler 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. Robert is also an author and theologian who specialises in the intersection of faith and modern society, covering pastoral sabbaticals, theology of the cross, and religion's role in today's culture. Steve Von Till from Neurosis introduced me to Robert, an opportunity I'm thankful for, as I've been eager to find a guest who resides at an intersection of extreme metal and faith for the show. 
It'd be tempting to say this is a different guest from what you are used to, but that isn't true. I was the first journalist to contact Stuart Anstis, who blew the lid off the popular narratives surrounding Cradle of Filth. I'm the only person to interview Trey from Morbid Angel's mother. Across 800 other episodes of the show, you have become familiar with my technique of allowing the guest to brooch topics across all social, political and religious contexts. 
But this conversation goes beyond typical discussions of faith; it's a deep exploration into his path to spirituality, ministry, and scholarly work in theology. I hope this is the first of many insightful discussions with Robert. 

Vinnie Dombroski (Sponge)

Vinnie Dombroski, the frontman of alternative rock band Sponge, talks about the story behind 'Planet Girls', a long-lost album that has recently been released. Originally intended to follow the success of their iconic albums' Rotting Piñata' and 'Wax Ecstatic', the label shelved Planet Girls and remained unreleased for years.
Vinnie discusses the original sound and vision of 'Planet Girls', which aimed to align more closely with Sponge's earlier work rather than the pop-oriented direction of 'New Pop Sunday'. He sheds light on the pressures from the music industry in the late '90s, including the influence of contemporary bands like Goo Goo Dolls and the impact these pressures had on the band.
The conversation also explores Vinnie's collaboration with producer Kevin Shirley on the 'Planet Girls, the enduring relationship with Tim Patalan (producer of 'Rotting Piñata' and 'Wax Ecstatic'), and the dynamics within the band during those pivotal recording sessions.
Further, Vinnie touches on the legacy of Sponge's music, particularly discussing tracks like 'Neenah Menasha' and its significance in the '90s alternative rock scene. He also pays tribute to the unique talents of band members like Mike Cross (RIP) and Joey Mazzola, giving fans a deeper insight into the chemistry and creativity defining Sponge's sound.
https://www.spongetheband.com/

Cremator (Ghoul)

Join Cremator from Ghoul as he unearths the sinister secrets of Creepsylvaniana. Fresh from the release of their latest EP, "Noxious Concoctions," Cremator takes us on a chilling journey through the genesis of their ghoulish creations. From the infernal inspiration behind their return to the recording studio to the harrowing sessions at Antisleep Audio, the macabre process is revealed. Prepare for a nightmarish interview direct from the depths of Creepsylvaniana. Welcome to the nightmare...
https://tankcrimes.bandcamp.com/album/noxious-concoctions
PS: I was unaware that the interview would be conducted in character. Feel free to laugh at my expense as I fumble through the initial exchanges, trying to make sense of what's happening - Andrew McK.

Glen Benton (Deicide)

Glen Benton of Deicide discusses the intricacies of the latest album, Banished By Sin, and the band's enduring legacy. Reflecting on past performances, we address musical evolution and the contributions of new guitarist Taylor Nordberg and sound engineer Jeramie Kling (both in Inhuman Condition). Benton shares insights into guitarist Mark English's departure and talks about the pivotal partnership with Ralph Santolla. From bass setups to managing fan encounters, we also tackle pressing socio-political issues, including the impact of left-wing authoritarianism and the future of global leadership.
 
https://deicideofficial.com/

Dave Lupton (Flaming Wrekage)

Dave is from Flaming Wrekage and was invited onto the show to explore their upcoming album, Terra Inferna. We discuss the inspiration behind the album artwork and title and how it reflects the band's evolution. We also examine the creative process behind the innovative track "Ghosts" and how it distinguishes itself from previous works. Dave shares insights on balancing experimentation with maintaining the band's signature sound and incorporating diverse influences into their music while ensuring cohesion throughout the album. We also touch upon the band's recognition on prominent platforms like Apple Music and Spotify and how it has impacted their journey. Additionally, Dave reflects on memorable experiences collaborating with acts outside the thrash metal genre. He shares his hopes and aspirations for Terra Inferna, creatively and in reaching new audiences.
http://www.flamingwrekage.com/