Scars and Guitars

Andrew Craighan (My Dying Bride)

In this episode, guitarist Andrew Craighan discusses the 70000 Tons of Metal Cruise and the creation of My Dying Bride's latest album, A Mortal Binding. We explore the differences and similarities to its predecessor, The Ghost of Orion. Craighan sheds light on the collaborative efforts with Neil Blanchett and Dan Mullins, discussing the impact of lineup changes on the band's dynamics and sound. Additionally, he shares insights into his motivation for prolific songwriting and the role of producer Mark Mynett in shaping the album's sound. Furthermore, we examine the evolution of My Dying Bride's musical approach, from As the Flower Withers to Turn Loose the Swans, and the polarising 34.788%...Complete, including bold artistic choices and fan reactions. Finally, we explore the significance of seminal releases like Towards the Sinister demo and the epic Symphonaire Infernus et Spera Empyrium EP, discussing their composition, arrangement, and impact.

Steven Campbell, Veronica Campbell and Ryan Roma (Avalanche)

Avalanche celebrates the release of their latest single, "Hell’s Getting Hotter With You," a track that captures the essence of their live energy, recorded in just three takes.
In our conversation with Steven Campbell (Vocals/Bass), Veronica 'V' Campbell (Lead Guitar), and Ryan Roma (Drums), we explore how their collaboration with Grammy-nominated and ARIA Award-winning producer Steve James has shaped the sonic landscape of "Hell’s Getting Hotter With You" and their overall recording approach.
Drawing from their experiences supporting acts like Buckcherry, Fozzy, and The Iron Maidens, the band shares insights into how touring alongside established bands has influenced their live performances and stage presence. Additionally, we delve into the distinctive elements of Aussie Rock and how Avalanche incorporates that spirit into their unique sound.

Bill Steer (Carcass/ ex- Napalm Death)

Join us for a chat with guitar iconoclast Bill Steer as Carcass prepares for a tour of Australia alongside The Black Dahlia Murder and Freedom of Fear throughout April 2024. We kick off the discussion by revisiting the seminal album Scum by Napalm Death, where Bill shares memories of the recording process and his contributions to the album's songwriting.
We discuss From Enslavement to Obliteration, which topped the UK Indie charts, and explore its lasting significance to Bill and the band. We also talk about the idea of performing the album live at festivals.
The conversation shifts to Carcass's The Curse EP, and Bill explains his departure from Napalm Death and provides insights into the catalyst behind his decision. Exploring Carcass's sonic evolution from Reek of Putrefaction to Symphonies of Sickness, we discuss the inspirations behind the intricate compositions on the latter album, showcasing the band's growth and musical prowess. Moving on to the making of Necroticism—Descanting the Insalubrious, Carcass's first 'guitar hero' album, Bill shares the process of recruiting Michael Amott and their collaborative songwriting approach. Reflecting on the band's deal with Columbia Records in the US, we discuss what could have been done differently.
Don't miss the opportunity to catch Carcass live in action, alongside The Black Dahlia Murder and Freedom of Fear, on the following dates:
April 2nd: Magnet House, Perth
April 4th: The Gov, Adelaide
April 5th: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne (SELLING FAST!)
April 6th: Manning Bar, Sydney (SELLING FAST!)
April 7th: Princess Theatre, Brisbane
April 10th: Meow, Wellington April 11th: Loons, Christchurch
April 12th: Galatos, Auckland
Tickets are on sale now, so grab yours before they sell out!
Visit the following links for ticket purchases:
Melbourne, Sydney: www.moshtix.com.au
Perth, Adelaide: www.oztix.com.au
Brisbane: www.ticketmaster.com.au
Wellington: https://moshtix.co.nz
Christchurch: www.undertheradar.co.nz
Auckland: https://galatos.co.nz 

Chuck Garric (Alice Cooper / Dio) and Calico Cooper (Beasto Blanco)

Calico Cooper, daughter of Alice Cooper, and Chuck Garric, known for his bassist roles with Alice and Dio, discuss their latest project under the Beasto Blanco moniker. They talk about their track "Run For Your Life" and the adrenaline-fueled music video featuring an intergalactic cybernetic warrior queen. We also touch on the inspirations behind the forthcoming album, Kinetica, and how the band is preparing for festivals such as Wacken. Calico addresses misconceptions about her career solely due to her famous father, and Chuck shares insights from his journey with Alice and Dio.
https://www.beastoblanco.com/ 

Matt Pike (Sleep/ High on Fire) and Jeff Matz (High on Fire)

Throughout the conversation with Matt Pike and Jeff Matz of Sleep and High on Fire, we discuss their latest studio album, Cometh the Storm. Our discussion goes into the album's thematic layers, focusing on tracks like "Sol’s Golden Curse" and their relevance amidst current global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, left-wing political authoritarianism, and societal unrest. We also explore Kurt Ballou of Converge's role as the album's producer. Matt shares insights into his solo project, Pike vs. the Automaton, and its potential influence on Cometh the Storm. Reflecting on Third Man Records Vault Package #52, featuring Sleep's "Dopesmoker" with remastered audio, Matt provides his perspective. Additionally, he discusses Sleep's previous release, "The Sciences," marking their return after a hiatus. Jeff Matz offers insights into his dual commitment to teaching and music, and we touch upon drummer Coady Willis's recent performance in Australia with The Melvins.
Pre-order/save High on Fire's Cometh the Storm  here: https://highonfire.ffm.to/comeththestorm

Mark Beuchet - Photographer (Cradle of Filth: 1992- 1994)

Mark Beuchet photographed Cradle of Filth from 1992 to 1994. Mark discusses his introduction to the band and shares his overall impressions. He provides insights into his collaboration with the band, and we discuss how he, along with Chris Bell and Nigel Wingrove, differentiated the band's imagery from prevalent trends of the time.
Mark elaborates on his thoughts regarding Dani and the band and reflects on the instructions he provided for the iconic Sadovania shoot. Additionally, he discusses other notable photos and portraits he captured during his time working with Cradle of Filth.
This conversation is a must for the 'Chronicles of Filth' completist. Mark Beuchet's contributions to the visual identity of one of metal's most influential bands are finally revealed.
Mark is a musician, having been a member of Annihilated, and he has an outfit called Station Twenty 7, which you can check out here https://stationtwenty7.bandcamp.com/ and the band's new video is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vP0EFSpp-4I 
The Chronicles of Filth are available here! https://scarsandguitars.com/cradle-of-filth-conversations/
Conversations with the following band members reveal all:
Sarah Jezebel Deva: Keyboards and vocals 1994–2008
Dani Filth: Vocals 1991- Present
Stuart Anstis: Guitars 1995 -1999
Richard Shaw: Guitars 2014–2022
Lindsay Schoolcraft: Keyboards and vocals 2013–2020
Nick Barker: Drums and percussion 1993–1999
Paul Allender: Guitars 1992–1995 & 1999–2014
Greg Moffitt (AKA Damien Gregori): Keyboards 1995–1997
Was Sarginson: Drums and percussion 1992–1993 & 1999 (session)
Chris Bell: Photographer 1992 - 1997
Nigel Wingrove: Art director 1992 – 1997
Mike Exeter - Producer and engineer (1994-1999)
Paul Ryan: Guitars 1991–1995
Benjamin Ryan: Keyboards 1991–1995
James McIlroy: 2003–2005 & 2009–2014
 

Juan Montoya (Killer Be Killed, Torche, graphic artist)

Juan Montoya is an outstanding guitarist and artist from Miami. We met at Walt Grace Vintage Cars and Guitars and decided to continue our conversation on the show. We discuss his career as a recording and touring musician with bands like Killer Be Killed and Torche, among others, as well as his artwork. Our discussion covers a range of topics related to rock and heavy metal. You can follow him at https://www.instagram.com/montoyablackmagic/.

Dan Mitchell (Autumns Eyes)

Renowned as Autumns Eyes, Dan Mitchell is gearing up to release a new album, presenting an excellent opportunity for an engaging chat. We'll reflect on the epic 70000 Tons of Metal Cruise, dissect the omnipresent coverage of Taylor Swift, particularly as she recently graced Australia's shores, discuss the nuances of Australian accents and the cultural cringe surrounding Crocodile Dundee, talk about a life-changing Ayahuasca experience, discuss heavy and extreme metal, and explore many other topics. As a fitting conclusion, Dan's single, "Faith in Cycles," will play at the show's end. 

New Music Show February 2024

The Scars and Guitars New Music Show returns for February 2024, showcasing an impressive roster of cutting-edge artists including I AM HERE, DORO, High on Fire, MY DYING BRIDE, Lesbian Bed Death, Saturday Night Satan, Olathia, Necrowretch, DAMNATIONIS, SULFURIC HATRED, ABERRATION, DIABOLIC OATH, Maurda, REFRACTURE, Black Hate, GATES TO HELL, Stellar Remains, 72 Legions, Manifestations, Lifesick, Dripping Decay, ABORTED, KAOSPHERE, JUNTA, and RAW WAR. Prepare for an exploration of extreme and blackened sounds.
Reflecting on recent months, a change in ownership in 2022 prompted the quest for a new podcast host. With Whooshkaa's acquisition by Spotify, Anchor emerged as the recommended alternative, albeit with frustratingly limited music-sharing capabilities. Most of the music featured on the show was sourced directly from agents, musicians, and distributors, much of which wasn't even available on Spotify. By November, it became evident that the show couldn't continue under these constraints. Now, with the opportunity to host the show anew on a different platform and explore other music projects, listeners can tune in via iHeart Radio, iTunes, Amazon, and more.
The eagerly awaited return of the monthly music show is finally here, and it's here to stay!

Kyle Thomas (Exhorder)

In this chat with Exhorder's Kyle Thomas, we explore the band's album "Defectum Omnium," set to release via Nuclear Blast in early March 2024. Kyle sheds light on the album's themes alongside discussions about the inspiration behind their music. We also delve into the recent addition of Pat O'Brien from Cannibal Corpse to the band and Exhorder's connections with fellow New Orleans bands like Eyehategod and Phil Anselmo. The conversation takes a deeper dive into specific tracks, such as "The Tale of Unsound Minds". Furthermore, Kyle addresses Exhorder's perspective on comparisons to Pantera and reflects on the current political landscape, particularly in light of authoritarian measures during the COVID era.