Scars and Guitars

With over 900 interviews, 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.

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880 episodes
Updated Nov 15, 2025
Explicit

Episodes880

Newest first

Dec 19, 2024 · 51 min
Mischa M and Cristian S (CHÜZO)
Mischa M and Cristian S from CHÜZO discuss their new EP, Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay. We’ll talk about how cultural influences shape their sound, the themes behind the EP, and Mischa’s approach to developing her vocal style. They’ll share insights on balancing creative perspectives in an international lineup, navigating Montreal’s metal scene, and their experience working with producer Kevin Jardine. Bandcamp - https://chuzomtl.bandcamp.com/album/m-t-m-d-maximum-threshold-minimum-decay Digital (Spotify) - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/chzo/mtmd EP Stream - https://youtu.be/jqCdfYwDev4 More Info: Instagram.com/chuzo.band | Facebook.com/chuzo.band
Dec 18, 2024 · 1 hr 6 min
Derek Davis (Babylon A.D.)
In this episode, Derek Davis from Babylon A.D. discusses the band’s new album Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day and the stories behind its deeply personal tracks like "Looking for a Heartbeat" and "I Will Never Break Again." He reflects on the spiritual journey that led to "Face of God". Derek shares insights on Babylon A.D.’s evolution since their late ‘80s debut, the band’s longevity, and the dynamic with long-time collaborators Ron Fresch and John Matthews. He revisits pivotal moments like signing with Clive Davis and breaking into the industry during the Sunset Strip’s heyday, including stories from the Arista Grammys afterparty and navigating the grunge shift of the early ‘90s. Links to website and socials: https://babylonadband.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Babylonadband/ https://www.instagram.com/babylonad_/ www.youtube.com/channel/UCpQVt2LWl21avPsyLstHJEA open.spotify.com/artist/6sh4WKluS0LOsPdGPerKJ5 www.facebook.com/PerrisRecords/ www.perrisrecords.com
Dec 18, 2024 · 29 min
Eddie Spaghetti (Supersuckers)
In this episode, Eddie Spaghetti of the Supersuckers talks about their upcoming tour and past work with Nashville Pussy. He discusses the "Sacrilicious Sounds" album and Paul Leary's role in its production and its significance in the band's history. Eddie recounts the band's beginnings in Tucson, their transition to Seattle, and how they fit into the grunge era. He shares the experience of stepping up as frontman after Eric Martin left, the band's pivot to alternative country with "Must’ve Been High," and insights from their Interscope days. Eddie also reveals how his battle with cancer affected his approach to music and life and reflects on Ron Heathman's legacy. Eddie shares his career highlights, advises emerging musicians, and shares his hope for plans for the Supersuckers. HARDLINE MEDIA proudly presents the SUPERPUSSY TOUR - NASHVILLE PUSSY & THE SUPERSUCKERS on the one bill! TICKETS & INFO: http://www.hardlinemedia.net LIMITED VIP MEET & GREET AVAILABLE *LIMITED VIP MEET & GREET INCLUDES: - Early access to the show and merch stand** - Get a photo on your phone/device with both bands - Australian tour poster to get signed by both bands - Exclusive VIP lanyard/laminate - Bring along 3 personal items to get signed **VIP TICKET INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE SHOW SUPERPUSSY TOUR DOWN UNDER Australian Tour Dates: Thur 23rd Jan - Sydney - Manning Fri 24 Jan - Melbourne - Croxton Sat 25 Jan - Brisbane - Crowbar (The Zoo) Sun 26 Jan - Adelaide - The Gov
Dec 13, 2024 · 30 min
Chris Boltendahl (Grave Digger)
Chris Boltendahl of Grave Digger discusses his career spanning over four decades in heavy metal. The conversation addresses the band's longevity, the development of his vocal style, and the challenges of navigating lineup changes and shifts in the metal scene. He explains Grave Digger's method of addressing historical and controversial themes in their lyrics and outlines the creative process behind their latest album, Bone Collector. Chris examines the album's themes and the role of fan feedback in shaping the band's music. The discussion also includes Grave Digger's influence on newer generations of metal musicians, Chris’ plans for Grave Digger, and the principles guiding his creative work. Visit GRAVE DIGGER Online Official Homepage Facebook Instagram
Dec 11, 2024 · 1 hr 46 min
Michael Kiske (Helloween)
In this episode, Michael Kiske shares his spirituality, pathways to enlightenment and reflections on the state of humanity. Helloween’s new live album, Live At Budokan, is set for release on December 13, 2024. The launch of the album marks a perfect opportunity to explore profound and esoteric topics with one of heavy metal’s most iconic vocalists, transcending genre boundaries. As the voice behind the legendary Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I and Part II, Michael’s insights inspire anyone seeking a deeper understanding of spiritual growth. Note: A slight pause intact where Michael attends to something, as it was an ideal time to give the subject matter some breathing space. More on HELLOWEEN: helloween.org | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | RPM
Dec 11, 2024 · 1 hr 51 min
Brice Leclercq (From Kaos/ ex-Dissection)
Brice Leclercq, former bassist for Dissection (2004–2005), discusses his career and contributions to the metal scene. He reflects on his time in Dissection, detailing his work on the Rebirth DVD/CD, the Reinkaos album, and key moments like the Rebirth live performance in Stockholm. He also shares insights into his collaboration with Jon Nödtveidt and experiences with the band. Brice recounts his 2009 tour with Satyricon for The Age of Nero, explaining how he adapted his bass-playing style to fit their sound and describing specific events on the tour that influenced his musical approach. He highlights his current band, From Kaos, discussing the creation of Synchronicity I, the production process, and his work with Janne Jaloma from Dark Funeral. He also explores his role as a bass teacher and YouTuber, offering playthroughs, bass covers, and online lessons. Brice addresses challenges faced by students, outlines his teaching methods, and discusses the state of the metal scene, the importance of authenticity, and upcoming plans for From Kaos, including potential tours and new material. This episode features discussions on topics such as Jaco Pastorius, an evening with Lars Ulrich’s father in Seattle, and the broader dynamics of the metal genre. Audio glitches are present due to technical issues, but the recording maintains the show's standards to preserve the conversation's content. Watch Rebirth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RebirthDVD Listen to Reinkaos: https://open.spotify.com/album/Reinkaos Visit Brice’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/BriceLeclercq
Dec 11, 2024 · 47 min
Niclas Engelin (The Halo Effect/ ex-In Flames/ Gardenian)
Niclas Engelin discusses the creative process behind The Halo Effect's upcoming album March of the Unheard, detailing how it differs from his past work and the ways it reflects the band's progression since their debut Days of the Lost. He provides an overview of the lead single "Detonate," its concept, and its role in shaping the album's direction. Niclas also addresses the collaborative dynamic within the band and considers the potential of Patrik Jensen becoming a full-time member. The conversation explores Niclas's career, including the formation of Engel and its unique musical approach, his participation in 70,000 Tons of Metal, and his perspective on contributions throughout his work. He discusses past collaborations, the possibility of reviving Gardenian, and the role of lesser-known projects. Niclas concludes by sharing his thoughts on personal development, creative approaches, and his artistic goals. Watch the video for "March of the Unheard": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZG2matuCUM Listen to "March of the Unheard": https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motusg Pre-order the album: https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motulp
Dec 11, 2024 · 43 min
Peter Iwers (The Halo Effect/ ex-In Flames)
Peter Iwers outlines the creative process behind The Halo Effect's upcoming album March of the Unheard, examining how it differs from his previous projects and highlights the band's development since their debut Days of the Lost. He also discusses the collaborative dynamics within the band and addresses the possibility of Patrik Jensen joining as a full-time member. The discussion includes Peter's time with In Flames, his connections with former bandmates, experiences on 70,000 Tons of Metal, and reflections on contributions across his career. Watch the video for "March of the Unheard": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZG2matuCUM Listen to "March of the Unheard": https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motusg Pre-order the album: https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motulp
Dec 4, 2024 · 31 min
Alex Alereza (Nekrogoblikon)
Nekrogoblikon has carved out a unique niche in the metal world with their goblin-themed antics, and Alex Alereza is here to tell us all about it. We dive into the birth of their goblin concept, the creative journey behind their music, and the evolution of their mascot, John Goblikon. With an Australian tour alongside Alestorm on the horizon, Alex reflects on what it means to connect with Aussie fans. We also explore the band’s origins, his guitar influences, and the satirical lens through which Nekrogoblikon views society. ALESTORM with NEKROGOBLIKON performing at: Feb 25th - Perth, Metropolis Fremantle Feb 27th - Adelaide, The Gov Feb 28th - Melbourne, The Forum March 1st - Sydney, Roundhouse March 2nd - Canberra, The Baso March 4th - Brisbane, Princess Theatre ALESTORM only performing at: March 7th - Auckland, Galatos March 8th - Wellington, San Fran TICKETS ON SALE at: PERTH, ADELAIDE, CANBERRA - www.oztix.com.au MELBOURNE - www.ticketek.com.au SYDNEY - www.moshtix.com.au BRISBANE – www.ticketmaster.com.au AUCKLAND - https://galatos.co.nz WELLINGTON - https://moshtix.co.nz
Nov 30, 2024 · 43 min
Garrett Alvarado (Maul)
Garrett Alvarado of Maul discusses the band's latest album, In The Jaws Of Bereavement. He talks about the evolution from Seraphic Punishment, shifts in sound and approach, and the experiences behind its heavier direction. The conversation includes insights on working with Adam Tucker at Signaturetone Recordings, the album's themes of loss and resilience, the impact of Hugh Danger's synths and samples on the production, and the emotional intensity of the performances. Garrett reflects on how touring with I Am and Life Cycles has shaped the band's connection to the new material. https://maul701.bandcamp.com https://www.facebook.com/MAULND https://www.instagram.com/mauldeath https://twitter.com/MAUL701 https://www.youtube.com/c/MAULND https://www.20buckspin.com https://listen.20buckspin.com https://www.facebook.com/20buckspin https://twitter.com/20buckspinlabel https://www.instagram.com/20buckspinlabel
Nov 30, 2024 · 18 min
Jeff Wilson (Contrition)
Jeff Wilson delves into Pariahs, the latest EP from Contrition, offering a deep dive into its creative journey. He unpacks the motivations behind the EP's raw, stripped-down sound and candidly addresses the personal and scheduling challenges faced during production. Jeff highlights the eclectic mix of influences contributed by members of Chrome Waves, Yakuza, and Trouble, emphasising how Contrition carves its path, setting itself apart from prevailing death metal trends. He also discusses the collaboration with Goatwhore's Sammy Duet on the track "Trauma Queen”. https://contritionchicago.bandcamp.com https://www.facebook.com/contritionchicago https://www.instagram.com/contritionchicago http://disorder-recordings.com https://disorder-recordings.bandcamp.com http://disorder-design.com
Nov 30, 2024 · 35 min
Giulio Rimoli and Davide Itri (Bedsore)
Giulio Rimoli and Davide Itri discuss the new Bedsore album Dreaming The Strife For Love and the evolution of their sound. The conversation explores the themes and ideas behind the album, their approach to blending progressive and atmospheric elements with death metal, and the influence of Italy’s metal scene on their music. The duo share insights into their creative process, visual aesthetics, and the challenges of crafting genre-defying music. They also reflect on the subjects they are drawn to explore and potential collaborations that could shape their future work. https://www.facebook.com/bedsoredeath https://www.instagram.com/bedsoredeath https://bedsoredeath.bandcamp.com https://www.20buckspin.com https://listen.20buckspin.com https://www.facebook.com/20buckspin https://twitter.com/20buckspinlabel https://www.instagram.com/20buckspinlabel
Nov 20, 2024 · 23 min
Fredrik Åkesson (Opeth)
Fredrik dives into The Last Will & Testament, the latest album from Opeth, set for release on November 22, 2024, through Reigning Phoenix Music. In this episode, he delves into guitar performance and other related topics. This conversation was initially envisioned as part of an expansive two-part series examining various facets of Opeth's guitar work and musical evolution. Adding to the excitement, Opeth will be touring Australia and New Zealand in November 2025. OPETH AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND TOUR DATES 2025 Friday, 14 November – Auckland – Town Hall Monday, 17 November – Sydney – Sydney Opera House Tuesday, 18 November – Sydney – Sydney Opera House Thursday, 20 November – Brisbane Fortitude – Music Hall Friday, 21 November – Melbourne – Palais Theatre Saturday, 22 November – Adelaide Hindley – St Music Hall Monday, 24 November – Perth – Astor Theatre For tickets and details, visit https://metropolistouring.com/opeth-2025/ or https://davidroywilliams.com/tours/opeth-2025/
Nov 17, 2024 · 1 hr 10 min
Oliver Amberg (ex-Celtic Frost)
Former Celtic Frost guitarist Oliver Amberg discusses his time with the band, focusing on the Cold Lake era. Oliver shares insights into the album's creative process, studio dynamics, and the band's stylistic shift. He addresses the backlash from fans, reflects on Cold Lake's legacy, and discusses his creative relationship with Tom G. Warrior. We also explore the album's visual branding, the possibility of unreleased material, and how fan perceptions have changed over time. Check out Oliver’s recent music projects here: https://oliveramberg.bandcamp.com/ Some of Oliver's favourite musical selections as an introduction to his music: https://oliveramberg.bandcamp.com/album/songs-like-horses https://oliveramberg.bandcamp.com/album/the-remote-sessions-rewinded Kissing Lucifer (Featuring Oliver) plays a swing version of Cherry Orchards: https://youtu.be/8_XqDLs_L-A?si=EN8OWhKaGb73gP7f
Nov 14, 2024 · 40 min
Max Cavalera (Cavalera/ Soulfly/ ex- Sepultura)
Max Cavalera revisits Sepultura’s groundbreaking early albums - Bestial Devastation, Morbid Visions, and Schizophrenia - sharing stories of challenges, influences, and production. He reflects on Andreas, Paulo Jr., and overlooked contributor Jairo Guedz and dives into the early tape-trading scene with legends like Chuck Schuldiner and Euronymous. CAVALERA Third World Trilogy Australian Tour Dates Friday, January 17 - Liberty Hall, Sydney Saturday, January 18 - The Tivoli, Brisbane Sunday, January 19 - Northcote Theatre, Melbourne Wednesday, January 22 - The Odeon Theatre, Hobart Thursday, January 23 - Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide Friday, January 24 - Metropolis, Fremantle From: https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/cavalera
Nov 13, 2024 · 1 hr 56 min
Necrobutcher (Mayhem)
Jørn Stubberud, better known as Necrobutcher, joins the show ahead of Mayhem's January 2025 shows in Australia, celebrating the band's 40th anniversary. In this candid conversation, Jørn opens up about his relationship with Varg Vikernes, his thoughts on the late Euronymous, working with vocalist Attila, and the controversial promotion of the bootleg Dawn of the Blackhearts, infamous for featuring a distressing image of his friend and bandmate Per Ohlin, also known as Dead. He also discusses the Lords of Chaos biopic, his connection to Australia, his legacy and much more! MAYHEM performing at: Jan 9th - Brisbane, Princess Theatre Jan 10th - Sydney, Metro Theatre Jan 12th - Melbourne, Northcote Theatre TICKETS ON SALE now: BRISBANE - www.ticketmaster.com.au SYDNEY - www.ticketek.com.au MELBOURNE - www.moshtix.com.au www.thetruemayhem.com www.facebook.com/mayhemofficial www.swdpresents.com
Nov 11, 2024 · 32 min
Andrew Roachford (Roachford)
Andrew Roachford as he reflects on returning to Australia for his *Then and Now Greatest Hits Tour* after nearly two decades. We discuss pre-show rituals, his powerful performance mindset, and his unique journey balancing solo work with Mike + The Mechanics. Andrew shares insights on the lasting impact of his music, pivotal career moments, hidden gems in his catalogue, and his thoughts on rock 'n' roll’s overlooked legacy alongside influences like The Beatles ROACHFORD May 2025 Australian Tour Dates Friday 16th May - FREMANTLE, Freo.Social Saturday 17th May - ADELAIDE, The Gov Friday 23rd May - MELBOURNE, 170 Russell Saturday 24th May - SYDNEY, Manning Bar Sunday 25th May - BRISBANE, The Triffid Tickets From: https://metropolistouring.com/roachford-2025/
Nov 1, 2024 · 1 hr 19 min
John Sanders (Alarum)
John Sanders, one of Alarum's two guitarists, joins the show ahead of the release of their new album, Recontinue, and their upcoming Australian tour with Pestilence and Abramelin. In this dynamic and engaging conversation, John discusses the intricacies of the new album, details of the tour, his career in radio, and how he has confronted personal challenges. Recontinue will be released on November 8, 2024. It explores themes of regeneration, resilience, and finding strength in adversity. The album comprises 11 tracks that blend heavy and soft elements, showcasing Alarum's signature fusion of progressive metal, jazz, and thrash. Alarum online: www.alarum.com www.facebook.com/alarumofficial Instagram: @alarum_official ALARUM is on tour with Abramelin this November, supporting Pestilence! Nov 6th-Brisbane, The Triffid Nov 7th-Sydney, Crowbar Nov 8th–Canberra, The Baso Nov 10th-Melbourne, Max Watts Tickets from www.swdpresents.com
Nov 1, 2024 · 1 hr 21 min
John Gallagher (Raven)
John Gallagher has been the driving force at the forefront of Raven for over four decades. In this insightful conversation, he shares his thoughts on their upcoming Australian shows in November 2024, the band's enduring legacy, often-overlooked albums, and reflections on former members, including his brother and longtime guitarist, Mark Gallagher. He also opens up about his experiences with the Osbournes, Metallica, and his perspective on the growing wave of authoritarianism across the Western world. RAVEN and HYENA Australian Tour Dates Friday 8th November - MELBOURNE - Northcote Social Saturday 9th November - SYDNEY - STEEL ASSASSINS FESTIVAL - Bridge Hotel (tix via Moshtix on sale now) Brisbane - Cancelled... Link to tickets: https://hardlinemedia.net/raven-%2B-hyena
Nov 1, 2024 · 38 min
Chuck Billy (Testament)
Testament's Chuck Billy addresses controversies head-on, responding to a question about former bassist Greg Christian and shedding light on the Kukar Rockin' Fest 2014 incident in Indonesia. Chuck reflects on Testament's legacy, sharing thoughts on classic songs and personal favourites while revealing the inspiration behind recent album themes. He also discusses career crossroads, including his Sepultura audition and other band opportunities that might have been. He touches on the Nick Barker situation and working with James Murphy during his brief stint in Testament. Looking forward, Chuck talks about the band's upcoming Australian headline tour, their first since 2010, potential setlist changes, and Testament's current goals and ambitions. TESTAMENT June 2025 Australian Tour Dates Wednesday 18th June - BRISBANE, The Tivoli Friday 20th June - SYDNEY, The Metro Saturday 21st June - MELBOURNE, Northcote Theatre Sunday 22nd June - ADELAIDE - The Gov Tuesday 24th June - PERTH, Metropolis Fremantle Tickets Presale: Thursday 31st October, 9am Local Time General Public On Sale: Tuesday 5th November, 9am Local time From: https://metropolistouring.com/testament-2025/ or https://thephoenix.au/testament/