Scars and Guitars

Chris Basile (Pyrexia)

This episode features an exclusive interview with Chris Basile, the mastermind behind long-time New Your death metal outfit Pyrexia🤘 In this discussion, Chris reveals the motivating factor behind the highly anticipated re-release of Pyrexia's iconic album, "System of The Animal," through a remarkable 25th-anniversary edition. 🎵💥
Chris shares his insights on the fans' response and their unwavering support throughout Pyrexia's journey. 🙌🎶
Prepare to embark on a nostalgic trip as Chris reminisces about the early days with Terence Hobbs and the other members of Suffocation. Hear about the unforgettable experiences and the most cherished moments that shaped their musical path. Chris also pays homage to the legendary Doug Cerrito, discussing his contributions. 🎸🎙️
Pyrexia has achieved incredible longevity in the metal scene with a decades-long career. Gain insight into Chris's thoughts on the band's enduring success and ability to stay relevant in a constantly evolving musical landscape. 🎉🎶
In a thought-provoking segment, we delve into the sensitive topic surrounding the media coverage of the death of Jordan Neely. Chris shares his reflections on this event and how the media chose to cover it. 🚇
Finally, we explore Chris's perspective on the media's role in pushing critical race theory and its potential effects on societal divisions 📰🤔
Join us for this captivating interview as we uncover the fascinating world of Pyrexia, metal music, and the profound experiences that have shaped Chris Basile's journey. 🎤🌟

Craig Locicero (Forbidden)

Join us for an exclusive interview with Craig Locicero, the renowned guitarist from the legendary thrash metal band FORBIDDEN. In this captivating discussion, we explore pivotal moments that shaped the band's trajectory and their upcoming return to the spotlight. 🔥🤘
We uncover the intriguing connection between Anthrax, the Alcatraz metal festival, and the catalyst for FORBIDDEN's resurgence as a live force. Is it a mere sliding doors moment or a testament to unfinished business? Our conversation explores the depths of their musical journey. 🚪🎵
Reminisce with us as we delve into the 1997 album, 'Green,' which caught the attention of Metal Maniacs magazine. Offering a blend of heaviness, groove, and darkness, this hidden masterpiece showcased Craig evolved and intensified guitar technique, complementing his signature burning speed. 🌿🎸💥
Stepping further back in time, we explore the creation of FORBIDDEN's debut album, "Forbidden Evil," a quintessential masterpiece in the thrash metal genre. Uncover the creative process behind this influential record and its lasting impact on the metal scene. 🎶🎚️🌟
As the interview progresses, we shed light on the factors that led to FORBIDDEN's extended hiatus in 1997, revealing the motivations behind their eventual reunion. Gain insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by the band and how Craig overcame them, leading to their resurgence. 📅🤝🎵
In a fascinating detour, Craig shares his thoughts on the Queensryche album he contributed to his exceptional guitar skills, providing an exclusive glimpse into his collaborative experiences. 🎸🤝👑
The conversation takes an unexpected twist as we delve into the enigmatic story surrounding Death. Get firsthand insights into what transpired and whether Craig had ever considered a full-time role with the band. Discover his connection to Ralph Santolla and the bonds forged within the music industry. 🤘📖🎵
Finally, embark on a thought-provoking exploration of Craig Locicero's perspectives on Q Anon, flat earthers, and other conspiracy theories. Engage with his candid reflections on these intriguing topics. 🤔🌍🕵️‍♂️
Don't miss out on this enthralling chat as we uncover the untold stories of Craig Locicero and FORBIDDEN. Join us as we delve into their musical legacy, triumphs, challenges, and the exciting future that lies ahead. 🎸🎙️📚🔥

Riki Rachtman

🎉 Join Riki Rachtman for an exclusive chat as he shares his incredible journey ahead of his shows in Australia🎤
While you may know Riki from the internet, his iconic presence on Headbangers Ball from 1990 to 1995 was unseen by many in Australia. Back then, Pay TV, and MTV were yet to arrive. Did Riki have memorable encounters with Aussies during that time? Let's find out! 📺🤔
In this gripping conversation, Riki reveals the truth about his most challenging interviews. Who was the most difficult person he ever encountered? 🤬 Who brought the most laughter into his life? 😂 And which talented musician does he believe deserves more recognition? 🎵🏆
Join us as Riki's interview with Chris Jericho sheds light on his legendary club, the Cathouse. Will he consider starting a club again? Get ready to dive into this fascinating topic and explore the experiences of a club owner during those wild times. Prepare for some insane stories! 🕺💃🏻🏢
Reflecting on his incredible journey, Riki witnessed numerous individuals crash and burn. Brace yourself for the unexpected! 😱🔥
If given a chance, would Riki change anything about his remarkable past? Discover his thoughts on hindsight and his choices. Get ready for an honest and reflective moment! 🤔💭
Last but not least, find out if Riki Rachtman is still close friends with Dave Mustaine. Learn about their enduring bond and the memories they share. Friendship in the music industry is rare; this interview uncovers the truth! 🤝💎
Don't miss this fascinating conversation with Riki Rachtman, where his captivating stories and unfiltered insights will leave you craving for more. Tune in now and prepare for an unforgettable experience! 🎙️🔥🔓
Check out the Australian tour dates below:
Saturday, June 3: Adelaide - The Woodshed
Sunday, June 4: Brisbane - The Brightside
Friday, June 9: Melbourne - Stay Gold
Tuesday, June 0: Sydney - Factory Theatre
Get your tickets at: https://www.silverbacktouring.com.au/riki-rachtman-au/

Adam ’ATF Sinner’ Buszko (Hate)

🎸 This episode features a chat with Adam "ATF Sinner" Buszko, Hate's founder, vocalist, and guitarist. This interview delves into Hate's journey, from their Australian shows with Vader to the band's formation in a country still under the Soviet hammer. We also explore their influential albums, memorable touring experiences, and the impact of Adam's leadership on Hate's identity and longevity.
Firstly, we discuss Adam's thoughts on the Australian shows with Vader. Find out his reflections on these performances and the significance of this collaboration between two iconic metal acts. 🤘
Next, we dive into the origins of Hate as a band in a country still under Soviet influence. Adam shares the fascinating story of how Hate initially formed and discusses the early influences that helped shape the band's unique sound. 🎧
Hate has had an extensive discography since its formation. We delve into how the band made a lasting impact on fans and critics alike. Discover the albums that have stood out and hear why they are considered influential within the metal community. 📀
With their extensive touring experience, Hate has left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. Adam recounts some of the most memorable moments from their tours and highlights standout performances that have defined the band's live presence. 🌍🎤
Adam has been the driving force behind Hate since its inception. We explore how his leadership has shaped the band's identity and contributed to their longevity. Learn about Adam's vision for Hate and his crucial role in defining their musical direction. 🎶
In addition to discussing Hate's journey, we touch upon Adam's perspective as someone from a country in the Eastern bloc. Discover his thoughts on progressive and woke ideology and the rise of unelected officials wielding immense power and authoritarianism across the Western hemisphere. 🌍✊
Join us for this captivating chat as we delve into the world of Hate and gain insights from Adam "ATF Sinner" Buszko himself. Don't miss out on this exclusive conversation with one of the most influential figures in the metal scene. 🤘🔥

Demonaz (Immortal)

🔥 Demonaz (Immortal) Interview: War Against All 🔥
In this exclusive interview, Demonaz from the legendary black metal band Immortal discusses the highly anticipated new album, "War Against All." Brace yourself for an epic return to the frozen realms of Nordic chaos!
Topics discussed:
🎸 Is "War Against All" a Companion Album to "Battles in the North"?
Prepare for a thrilling exploration into the depths of Immortal's discography as we delve into the connection between their latest release and the iconic "Battles in the North." Find out if "War Against All" is the long-awaited successor fans have been craving!
🌌 Unveiling the Essence of Blashrykh and Nordlandh 🌌
Discover the inspiration behind their bone-chilling tracks and the significance they hold for the band.
🎵 From "Northern Chaos Gods" to "War Against All" 🎵
Did any of the unforgettable songs from "Northern Chaos Gods" find their way into "War Against All"? Learn about the creative process and song selection as Demonaz reveals the secrets behind Immortal's latest masterpiece.
🔥 A Battle of Instruments: Guitars, Bass, and Percussion 🔥
We go behind the scenes to uncover the intricate details of Immortal's recording process. Find out who took charge of the guitars and bass, and get an exclusive insight into the talented percussionist that joined forces with the band.
🌟 Personal Moments and Unleashing the War Gods 🌟
Explore the depths of Demonaz's artistic vision as he unveils the moments and tracks on "War Against All" that hold a special place in his heart. Discover the stories behind these powerful creations and their significance to the band.
🎤 Future Plans: Live Performances and Beyond 🎤
Is Immortal planning to unleash their fury on live stages? Tune in as we discuss their intentions and future tour plans. Brace yourself for an unforgettable live experience that will send shivers down your spine!
Don't miss this captivating interview with Demonaz from Immortal as we unravel the mysteries behind "War Against All" and delve into the heart of black metal's icy domain. Join us on this epic journey through the realms of chaos and darkness! 🔥🤘

Dave Coutts (ex- Talk Show [Stone Temple Pilots]) and Mark Dunn

*Dave is a good friend of the show. It's a pleasure to hear his perspectives and thoughts, as they never fail to add value to the conversation.* After the departure of their previous lead singer, Scott Weiland, Dave Coutts joined Talk Show in 1997, a band featuring all the musicians from Stone Temple Pilots. It didn't take long for him to establish himself as a talented musician and vocalist. As the band's frontman, he captivated audiences with his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, making a lasting impact on the alternative rock scene. Talk Show's self-titled debut album in 1997 received widespread critical acclaim. Despite their relatively short time together, Coutts' contributions to alternative rock and his unique vocal style have garnered him a dedicated fanbase. Following the band's disbandment, he continued to pursue music projects, further solidifying his influential presence in the industry.
*Mark joins us for a conversation, delving into the realms of music, the industry, and current events while shedding light on his latest release, Top Gear.* Mark is a highly skilled and passionate guitarist known for his diverse influences and ability to convey emotion through his playing. From a young age, he embraced the guitar and developed a unique style that blends technical precision with soulful expression. Mark has collaborated with renowned musicians, composed original music, and received critical acclaim for his albums. He is also a dedicated educator, sharing his knowledge and inspiring aspiring guitarists. Mark's unwavering dedication, artistic exploration, and love for music have made him an influential figure in the industry, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

Dave Matrise (Jungle Rot)

Get ready for an exclusive interview with Dave Matrise from Jungle Rot. Take a trip down memory lane with Dave as he reflects on a decade of Mayhemfest and the clickbait that followed. Would he go through it all again if given the chance? Out of Jungle Rot's impressive 11 albums, which era or album holds a special place in Dave's heart? It's the one he'd proudly present to anyone looking for the ultimate Jungle Rot sound! Did Dave have a blast at this year's 70,000 Tons of Metal extravaganza? Find out all the wild details!
Jungle Rot is among the last surviving underground bands from the 90s to achieve serious recognition. Learn how they made it big and are now rocking stages around the globe! Was there a specific album or tour that propelled Jungle Rot into playing far-flung places and drawing massive crowds? Discover the pivotal moment that changed the game for them!
Prepare for the most challenging chapter in Jungle Rot's career as Dave spills the tea on the ups and downs they faced. Do the badass 4x12s with the band's name embossed on the cabinet still belong to Jungle Rot? Find out if they've held on to those death metal relics! Get the inside scoop on Dave's thoughts and experiences working with Tony Brummell, the founder of Victory Records. Brace yourself for some intriguing stories! Curious about when Dave's autobiography will hit the shelves? He answers the question! Discover Dave's take on social and political issues as he opens up about his perspective.
Get ready for some thought-provoking insights! Get some priceless advice from the man himself, Dave Matrise, as he shares his wisdom.

Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry)

In this episode, we are joined by Per Nilsson, a renowned guitarist and founding member of the progressive metal band Scar Symmetry. The catalyst for our discussion is the release of Scar Symmetry's latest album, "The Singularity Phase II - Xenotaph".
Per shares with us his creative process and the inspirations behind his music, shedding light on the technical aspects of his work as a producer and mixing engineer. His experience in producing and engineering has given him a unique perspective on the music industry.
Additionally, Per talks about his past experience as a member of Meshuggah, one of the most influential and innovative metal bands of all time. He answers questions about the possibility of rejoining Meshuggah full-time and reflects on the impact that his time with the band has had on his career.
As the conversation draws to a close, Per opens up about his personal life and the challenges of balancing his passion for music with his responsibilities outside the studio. We gain insight into the man behind the music and are left with a newfound appreciation for his dedication to his craft and loved ones.
Overall, this episode is a must-listen for fans of Scar Symmetry, Meshuggah, and progressive metal in general. Per Nilsson's wealth of knowledge and experience make for a fascinating and informative discussion, and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from one of the genre's true pioneers.

Bobby ’Blitz’ Ellsworth from Overkill

In this exclusive interview with Blitz from Overkill, we delve into the band's latest album, "Scorched," which is their 20th and continues their impressive run of form since "White Devil Armory." Blitz shares that he believes this album is their best in a number of years and talks about the recording process, which took place during COVID lockdowns.
We also get some insight into the music itself, including the impressive solos performed by Dave and Derek, with the one in "Scorched" being a standout. The album's production was handled by Colin Richardson, who did an excellent job.
Blitz also discusses the lyrical themes of "Scorched" and shares some of his personal favourites from the album. But we also get to hear about his least favourite Overkill album, and he even shares a crazy tour story.
Blitz answers questions about the current state of affairs in the world, including the recent school shooting and the dominant narrative around the trans movement. He speaks candidly about the many issues facing the USA, from COVID hysteria and rising inflation to political scandals and international conflicts.

Chris Themelco (Orpheus Omega)

I have the talented Chris Themelco from the renowned Melbourne band Orpheus Omega on teh show in this episode. With their new EP "Portraits" set to release on April 20, 2023, Chris not only shares insights about the EP but also offers a wealth of knowledge and thoughtful opinions on various topics related to production, group dynamics in a band setup, and mentorship for young and impressionable bands. As always, Chris is an engaging and insightful guest, making for a fantastic chat that is not to be missed.