Scars and Guitars Andrew McKaysmith

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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.