The Robots Are Coming: Justin Pierrot on Stormland’s Songs of Future Wars

One of the cool things about being the editor of a music blog is that I get to talk with people all over the world about what inspires them.  Most recently, I chatted with Justin Pierrot of British Columbia, Canada about his solo death metal project Stormland.  He’s recorded a couple concept albums over the… Continue reading The Robots Are Coming: Justin Pierrot on Stormland’s Songs of Future Wars

NERD TALK with SPACESLUG

Polish psych-doom band Spaceslug takes over Nerd Talk this week, with guitarist Bartosz Janik and bassist Jan Rutka sharing their divergent nerdy interests.  Bartosz dives headfirst into video gaming, while Jan takes a thoughtful look at the history of Spaceslug’s hometown, Wroclaw. Spaceslug is rounded out by drummer Kamil Ziółkowski and all three members share vocal duties… Continue reading NERD TALK with SPACESLUG

Don’t Try to “Make It”: An Interview with Phil From Khemmis

From left: Ben (gtr/vox), Phil (gtr/vox), Zach (drums), and Dan (bass).

If Denver doom quartet Khemmis made waves with their 2015 debut, Absolution, their sophomore album Hunted was a tsunami.  Now on the eve of their third release, Desolation, vocalist and guitarist Phil Pendergast talked with Alternative Control about the band’s songwriting, imagery, and the ideal of “making it.”  Weekend warriors of heavy metal, read on…… Continue reading Don’t Try to “Make It”: An Interview with Phil From Khemmis

NERD TALK with NATHAN CARSON of WITCH MOUNTAIN

Nathan Carson will need no introduction for many of our readers.  A founding member of Portland, OR doom metal band Witch Mountain, Carson has stayed the course in the music scene for over two decades.  Persistence pays off; Witch Mountain’s self-titled fifth album was released May 25th, 2018 to many accolades.  The band is embarking… Continue reading NERD TALK with NATHAN CARSON of WITCH MOUNTAIN

Nerd Talk with Vikki from Her Despair

Vikki -- photo by Scott Chalmers Photography, borrowed from the band FB page.

The British Invasion continues at Nerd Talk — what is this, the War of 1812??  This week, bassist Vikki of Berkshire’s gothic metal band Her Despair takes over; I have a feeling she could get quite a tabletop battle going with Nerd Talk alums Howling Giant!  Read on to find out about Vikki’s tastes in… Continue reading Nerd Talk with Vikki from Her Despair

Sticky Situation: A Review of GEPH’s Apophenia

The Chapman Stick is not an instrument you’d expect to see when going to a local metal show. In fact, the only thing you’re less likely to see than a band with one Chapman Stick is a band with two Chapman Sticks — and that’s exactly what you’ll find with Boston-based GEPH. Self-described as “Progressive… Continue reading Sticky Situation: A Review of GEPH’s Apophenia

Open Heart Surgery: A Review of YOB’s Our Raw Heart

I’m greatly relieved by Mike Scheidt’s improved health. I remember it wasn’t long after my interview with him back in March of 2015 that he was overcome by a terrible affliction that almost killed him. He’s a super nice guy who’s very passionate about his music. He has a very likable and easy-going personality that… Continue reading Open Heart Surgery: A Review of YOB’s Our Raw Heart