Scars and Guitars

This episode examines statements from Zoë M. Federoff, Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda, and Dani Filth, focusing on the acrimonious departure of Zoë and Marek from Cradle of Filth. Ben Williamson of Dusk Cult was invited to discuss his perspective. 

Elliott Sansom shares insight into his tenure as the band's drummer and percussionist, including how he joined the group and an opportunity to reflect on what being in a group means to him. The Melbourne-based melodic death metal outfit, known for their progressive structures and immersive soundscapes, is gearing up for their east coast Australian tour in October 2025 to celebrate 20 years of live performances. Sansom joined Be'lakor in 2016, replacing Jimmy Vanden Broeck, and has since contributed to their acclaimed album, Coherence (2021), bringing years of experience from his other bands, Dusk Cult and Okera.  BE'LAKOR Australian Tour Dates - October 2025 With Persefone and Orpheus Omega Thursday, October 9th: Crowbar, Brisbane, QLD w/ Aeon Nexus Friday, October 10th: Factory Theatre, Sydney, NSW w/ Evocatus Saturday, October 11th: The Croxton, Melbourne, VIC w/ Naberus Tickets: On sale now Brisbane & Melbourne: www.oztix.com.au  Sydney: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com  Adelaide: www.moshtix.com.au 

Letlive guitarist Jeff Sahyoun discusses the band’s Australian tour in September, marking their return after an eight-year hiatus. He reflects on navigating the challenges of the music industry, finding inspiration in everyday life, and the impact of artificial intelligence on music.  Letlive. Australian Tour Dates - September 2025 Friday, September 5th: The Triffid, Brisbane, QLD Saturday, September 6th: Manning Bar, Sydney, NSW Sunday, September 7th: Max Watts, Melbourne, VIC Tuesday, September 9th: Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide, SA Wednesday, September 10th: Magnet House, Perth, WA Tickets: Available at The Phoenix

Phil Campbell, guitarist of Motörhead, discusses the upcoming Australian tour with his band Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons in September. He shares stories from his life on the road with Motörhead, what he misses most about the late Lemmy Kilmister, and the unique experience of performing alongside his three sons, Todd, Tyla, and Dane, in his current band. The conversation dives into the dynamics of family collaboration, the legacy of Motörhead, and the setlist for the Australian shows, which will feature Motörhead classics Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons Australian Tour Dates - September 2025 Tuesday, September 16th: The Rosemount, Perth, WA Wednesday, September 17th: Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide, SA Friday, September 19th: Eatons Hill, Brisbane, QLD Saturday, September 20th: Manning Bar, Sydney, NSW Sunday, September 21st: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC Tickets and Information: The Phoenix

Steven Wilson: Discussing The Overview and Australian Tour in November 2025 Steven Wilson shares details about his Australian tour in November 2025, which serves as the catalyst for his appearance on the show. He discusses his latest album, The Overview, and how it integrates into the live show he is bringing to Australia. Wilson also talks about the band he is working with for the tour, and the conversation highlights some of his notable production and mixing work, including his contributions to Anathema. Additionally, he sheds light on what happened with the remixes of the Use Your Illusion album series, as well as other engaging topics. Steven Wilson Australian Tour Dates – November 2025 Wednesday, November 12th: Astor Theatre, Perth, WA Thursday, November 13th: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide, SA Saturday, November 15th: The Forum, Melbourne, VIC Sunday, November 16th: ICC Darling Harbour Theatre, Sydney, NSW Monday, November 17th: QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane, QLD Tickets and Information: Teamwrk Touring

In this comprehensive and engaging interview, Primal Fear bassist and co-founder Mat Sinner discusses the band’s upcoming album, Domination, set for release on September 5, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music. Sinner reflects on how Domination synthesises lessons from his extensive discography, spanning from Sinner’s debut album Wild ‘n’ Evil (1982) to the present day. He explores the evolution of his songwriting, production techniques, and the integration of new band members, while addressing the challenges faced during the album’s creation, including his recent health struggles. The conversation also covers a range of topics, offering insights into his multifaceted career. Connect with Primal Fear Official Website: primalfear.de Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | Reigning Phoenix Music

Uli Jon Roth discusses his Australian tour in September 2025 as part of his Pictures of Destiny world tour. He provides insights into the setlist, revealing songs he won’t be playing, and reflects on his profound influence on American thrash metal giants like Metallica and Megadeth. Roth also shares his perspective on issues affecting humanity and the Western hemisphere, alongside other fascinating topics. Known for his groundbreaking work with The Scorpions and his solo career, Roth will perform a “best of” Scorpions set alongside highlights from his extensive catalogue, showcasing his inimitable guitar style. Uli Jon Roth Australian Tour Dates - September 2025 Adelaide: Sept 4/ venue details available via Oztix Melbourne: Sept 5/ venue details available via Oztix Sydney: Sept 3/ venue details available via Moshtix All things Uli: https://ujr.info

The opportunity to chat with Gregor comes about due to the new album from Paradise Lost, titled Ascension. Among a four-decade career, there were plenty of topics to discuss, including Paradise Lost's classic albums Gothic and Draconian Times, the less embraced albums from the late 90s and early 2000s, as well as the band's collaboration with Fear Factory and Delirum alumni, Fhys Fulbur. Greg also touches on his projects, Strigoi and the electro-goth partnership with Paradise Lost vocalist Nick Holmes, Host. Lots of other insightful commentary as well!  https://paradiselost.co.uk/ 

Tomislav discusses his band Elusive God and their releases, including the new album, Ambis. It was important for Tomislav to feature on the show as he is from Croatia, and it was an opportunity to discuss family links, culture and the Croatian metal scene.  https://linktr.ee/elusive_god 

Ben Weinman discusses The Dillinger Escape Plan’s Australian shows through August 2025, shares his thoughts on cover albums, and the idea of two vocalists, given that Dimitri Minakakis is back playing in the group after Greg Puciato’s long tenure with the band. Ben also discusses raising children, social media, and a range of other intriguing topics. THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN August 2025 Australian Tour Dates Sunday, August 10th: Metropolis Fremantle, Perth, WA Tuesday, August 12th: The Gov, Adelaide, SA Wednesday, August 13th: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC – SOLD OUT Thursday, August 14th: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC – New Show Saturday, August 16th: The Enmore, Sydney, NSW Sunday, August 17th: The Tivoli, Brisbane, QLD Tickets: On sale now at The Phoenix

Isaiah Mitchell, guitarist of the psychedelic rock powerhouse Earthless, shares his insights on songwriting, guitar playing and the creative process behind Earthless' mind-bending sound. Earthless 2025 Australian Tour Dates: Wednesday, 10th September – Crowbar, Brisbane Thursday, 11th September – Crowbar, Sydney Friday, 12th September – Corner Hotel, Melbourne Saturday, 13th September – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine Sunday, 14th September – Barwon Club, Geelong Tickets available now at: davidroywilliams.com/tours/earthless-2025/

Helloween vocalist Andi Deris shares insights into the band’s upcoming album, Giants & Monsters, set for release on August 29, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music. Deris opens up about the internal tensions and creative dynamics within the band, reflecting on whether he ever considered leaving the group. He also discusses his close friendship with co-vocalist Michael Kiske, the band’s enduring legacy, and his thoughts on the future of rock and metal music. Additional topics include the album’s versatile songwriting and the band’s approach to balancing their classic power metal sound with fresh elements. Media & Pre-Order Watch the video for “This Is Tokyo”: YouTube Pre-order Giants & Monsters: Link

Tomi Joutsen (vocalist) and Santeri Kallio (keyboardist and songwriter) from Amorphis shared insights about their upcoming album, Borderland. They explored the album’s themes, the influence of  Finnish mythology and the Kalevala, and addressed whether current affairs, social, or political tensions shaped its narrative. The conversation also touched on the Pasi Koskinen era, which marked a shift from the band’s early 1990s death metal roots, as well as lineup stability and various other topics. Album Details Title: Borderland Release Date: September 26, 2025 Label: Reigning Phoenix Music Media & Pre-Order Watch the Lyric Video for 'Light And Shadow': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aF80ycx5JQ Stream 'Light And Shadow': https://amorphis.rpm.link/lightandshadowPR Pre-Order/Pre-Save the Album: https://amorphis.rpm.link/borderlandPR

Italian author and musician Almarok has written a tribute to Cradle of Filth guitarist Stuart Anstis. Throughout this discussion, he shares his inspiration for the book and other topics related to Stuart and Cradle of Filth.  Check it out on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0F312RJNC?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_53BHBHH687V1WD5AMAA3&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_53BHBHH687V1WD5AMAA3&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_53BHBHH687V1WD5AMAA3&bestFormat=true&previewDohEventScheduleTesting=C  Check out his YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@almarok  Check his Instagram page out: https://www.instagram.com/almarok99/ 

AURI Discusses New Album: III - Candles & Beginnings In a recent conversation, Auri members Johanna Kurkela, Tuomas, and Troy shared insights about their upcoming album, III - Candles & Beginnings, set for release via Nuclear Blast on August 15, 2025. They discussed the album’s themes, touring plans, their connection to Australian listeners, and more. Album Details Title: III - Candles & Beginnings Release Date: August 15, 2025 Label: Nuclear Blast Media & Pre-Order Watch the Video for 'Shieldmaiden': https://youtu.be/BiRz_u77qwY Listen to 'Shieldmaiden': https://auri.bfan.link/shieldmaiden Pre-Order the Album: https://auri.bfan.link/iii-candles-beginnings Connect with AURI Official Links: https://linktr.ee/auri.band Merchandise: https://www.backstagerockshop.com/collections/auri

Throughout this discussion, Okoi and Fabian explored the upcoming Australian and New Zealand shows, the possibility of a new release, the challenges and obstacles faced, tour highlights, and navigating the issue of cancel culture. Tour Dates & Venues PORTAL with BØLZER August 15, 2025 – Sydney, NSW – Crowbar August 16, 2025 – Melbourne, VIC – Max Watts August 17, 2025 – Hobart, TAS – Altar August 23, 2025 – Brisbane, QLD – Necrosonic Festival, Mansfield Tavern BØLZER August 20, 2025 – Wellington, NZ – Valhalla August 21, 2025 – Auckland, NZ – Whammy Ticket Information Australia (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane): www.oztix.com.au Hobart: www.moshtix.com.au New Zealand (Wellington, Auckland): www.undertheradar.co.nz/tour/29619/BOLZER.utr Connect PORTAL: www.facebook.com/PORTALDEATH BØLZER: www.facebook.com/bolzerband Promoter: www.swdpresents.com

New Messiahs is the name of the new album from  Ashes of Ares. Matt discusses the lyrical themes of the album, working with mixer Byron Filson, amongst other topics related to the album. Matt also discusses the issues surrounding the January 6 United States Capitol event and the role of musicians in political discourse.  New Messiahs will be released on CD, Vinyl and Digital in Europe on July 18 and in North America on August 8, 2025, via ROAR. Pre-order your favourite choice of format now on: https://ashesofares.rpm.link/nmalbumPR   

Forever High is the name of the album and also the single in-market from Adelaide's Dirty Pagans. Bassist James Russo will discuss the album, the single, social media strategy, and a bunch of other topics.  Check out Dirty Pagans here:  www.facebook.com/dirtypagans Instagram: @dirtypagans https://linktr.ee/dirtypagans

This episode presents an opportunity to discuss the new album from Trivax, The Great Satan, and to gauge Shayan's perspective on the Iran-Israel conflict. As a Persian, Shayan is well-positioned to offer a more nuanced and informed perspective on the conflict that is engulfing his homeland, so be prepared for a comprehensive assessment of the topic. Shayan also discusses the new album as we tussle with the idea that he has single-handedly made many of the tropes in black metal redundant.  Iblis Manifestations: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCdkS0t6DOJQMox7f-Ke-gg Trivax: https://trivax.bandcamp.com/ 

Johnny Hedlund discusses Unleashed's new album, legacy, the state of heavy metal media and journalism, and provides fascinating insights into his and the band's relationship with World Entertainment Inc. heavyweight and Morbid Angel manager, Gunter Ford.  Pre-Order Your Copy of Fire Upon Your Lands https://lnk.to/UNLEASHED-FireUponYourLands/napalmrecords