Scars and Guitars
With over 900 interviews, Andrew McKaysmith provides a welcoming environment for artists to discuss their politics, social insights, and artistic perspectives. Offering an authentic experience, this podcast invites you to tune in to the conversations with numerous luminaries from hard rock, heavy metal, and extreme metal.
Episodes

Saturday Nov 25, 2023
Saturday Nov 25, 2023
Join us for an electrifying discussion with Marc Lopes as we delve into thought-provoking conversations about various social and political issues ahead of Metal Church's Australian shows.
Don't miss Metal Church's explosive performances on these dates:
Thursday, December 14 - MELBOURNE - Croxton
Friday, December 15 - BRISBANE - The Zoo
Saturday, December 16 - SYDNEY - Crowbar
Sunday, December 17 - ADELAIDE - Crown & Anchor
Get your tickets and all the information you need at www.hardlinemedia.net

Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
This conversation with Donita Sparks of L7 starts with a look back at the Alternative Nation Festival in 1995 and the band's connection with Australian audiences. We'll discuss the unique qualities of Donita's guitar tone, which echoes Tom Warrior from Celtic Frost's style with a punk twist, and delve into how this sound was honed over time. The conversation will touch on the band's distinctive groove, the process of riff-writing, and Donita's musical inspirations.
We'll revisit the early reception of Nirvana's Nevermind and get Donita's perspective on The Prodigy's cover of the L7 cut, "Fuel My Fire." We clear up if Jennifer Finch ever played with Moby's band and whether Oliver Stone personally reached out for the "Natural Born Killers" soundtrack contribution.
Reflecting on the 30th anniversary of the notorious 'Tampongate' at the Reading Festival, we'll discuss its place in the band's history. The interview will also cover the band's advocacy efforts through Rock for Choice and whether Donita still identifies with the feminist movement, followed by her views on current issues regarding transgender individuals in sports, prisons, and beauty pageants.

Saturday Nov 18, 2023
Saturday Nov 18, 2023
In this chat, Darren discusses the making of Sadus's latest album, "The Shadow Inside." He shares insights into the inspiration behind the album's title and its connection to the album's themes. He also talks about this record's songwriting process and how it distinguishes itself from previous Sadus projects.
Darren also touches upon the absence of Steve Di Giorgio from the album and provides some insights into the reasons behind this decision.

Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Mark Whelan from Fuming Mouth opens up about their new release, "Last Day of Sun." Did his battle with leukemia alter the band's sound or influence the cataclysmic themes of the album? We'll explore how recent global developments have influenced his songwriting and the impact of Swedish death metal on their sound. Additionally, we'll talk about their future tour schedules, Mark's dream tour lineup, the rapport with their Australian audience, and his perspective on the heavy metal scene in the press and books. https://fumingmouth.bfan.link/ldos

Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Tana Douglas is widely recognised as the world's first female roadie. Tana shares tales from her groundbreaking journey, which began in 1973 when, as a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of rock 'n' roll, she started working with AC/DC in Australia. From doing backline to managing the Front of House (FoH) sound and then moving to lighting, Tana's career is a series of firsts that paved the way for women in the industry.
Her memoir, "LOUD," captures the essence of her massive life, lived largely on the road and behind the scenes, working with icons from AC/DC to Elton John. In this conversation, Tana opens up about her experiences, life on tour, and the indelible mark she's left on the roadie profession.
Check out her excellent book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Loud-Tana-Douglas/dp/0733340903

Friday Oct 27, 2023
Friday Oct 27, 2023
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

Wednesday Oct 25, 2023
Wednesday Oct 25, 2023
*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

Saturday Oct 21, 2023
Saturday Oct 21, 2023
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/

Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
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

Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
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.