Shows
The Smashing Skull SessionsCancer Band Interview with John Walker (Guitar & Vocals)For over 35 years UK death metal legends Cancer have been delivering some of the most brutal and uncompromising music in the genre.
Now, they return with Inverted World, their highly anticipated follow-up to 2018’s Shadow Gripped. Set for release on 25th April via Peaceville Records, the album promises a return to their signature blend of serrated riffing, guttural vocals, and relentless aggression. Expect a dark and visceral journey into dystopia, corruption, and existential horror.
Speaking on the upcoming release, founding member and vocalist John Walker shared “I started writing the new material shortly after the Covi...2025-05-0256 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsInhuman Nature Interview with Christopher Barling (Vocals) & Daragh Markham (Bass)Thrashing - quite literally - into existence in 2017 INHUMAN NATURE are on the cuswp their upcoming album, 'Greater Than Death', out the 25th of April! The London, UK firebrand continues to fly the flag for the new wave of thrash and crossover across three battleproof tracks.
Following their self-titled 2019 debut album, a split with UK contemporaries Road Mutant and a string of EP’s and singles, Under The Boot sees INHUMAN NATURE charge headfirst into themes of apocalypse, abyss and blind compliance, sparing no soul in the process. Vocalist, Chris Barling leads the group with venomous disdain ac...2025-04-1845 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsBRAT Interview with Liz Selfish (Vocals) Brenner Moate (Guitar) Ian Hennessey (Bass)Straight out of the Crescent City, BRAT are set to release their forthcoming debut album, Social Grace, via Prosthetic Records on March 15. Since their 2021 inception, the New Orleans deathgrind / hardcore band’s journey to date has been one of blistering ascension both on the road and in-studio with relentless US touring and two head turning EP’s already under their belt. Enter 2024 and BRAT are ready to give extreme music the pink pill.
Between an intense live schedule over the last three years, which saw BRAT share the stage with the likes of Eyehategod, Cro-Mags and contemporaries in g...2025-04-0422 minThe Smashing Skull Sessionsbeneathwaves and Living With Giants Double InterviewLiving With Giants is an instrumental post-rock band from Sacramento, California. Starting as a solo project in 2009 by Ryan Mannie, the project gained more members, releasing their debut album in 2011. From 2014-2021 the band took some time off, finally returning as the duo of Carver Simmons and Ryan. The band has since continued releasing new music comprised of the crescendoing drums, droning bass, airy guitars and immersive atmosphere which they have become recognized for. In 2024 Living With Giants introduced Andrew Curteman as their percussionist, adding new sonic characters to their vocabulary. With a sound being described as both "waves...2025-03-2137 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsNew Skeletal FacesIt’s been 7 years since US Death Rock’s new rising sensation New Skeletal Faces arrived on our planet and embedded themselves in the seedy outlying corners of the Southern Californian music scene. Today, Peaceville are excited to announce that the California trio have signed to the label and will be releasing their new album Until The Night later this year.
Upon signing, New Skeletal Faces said “We are honoured to be joining the Peaceville roster and believe that there is no better asylum for NSF. Being alongside the most intense artists this earth has procreated, we look forwar...2025-03-0727 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsDustin Davidson (Bass) August Burns Red InterviewAugust Burns Red is an American metalcore band from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, known for their technical instrumentation, heavy breakdowns, and intricate guitar work. The band formed in 2003 and has since become one of the most respected acts in the metalcore scene.
Known for their technical precision, uplifting themes, and relentless energy, August Burns Red has built a devoted fan base worldwide. They’ve toured extensively, headlining festivals and sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in metal. Their annual Christmas cover songs have also become a tradition, showing their playful side while maintaining their intense sound....2025-02-2130 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsMike IX Williams (Vocalsit) Eyehategod interviewNew Orleans’ EYEHATEGOD is the snarling, bilious sound of dead-end America. Since 1988, they’ve been a soundtrack for the troubled masses. Ugly music for ugly times. That’s the sense of disenchantment and disease that lies the heart of their latest and sixth full-length album, “A History of Nomadic Behavior”. Anyone familiar with EHG’s story knows this is survivor’s music, a sound unto itself where Sabbathian riffs are meted out with a caustic anger that goes beyond punk. That’s been the blueprint since guitarist Jimmy Bower (also of NOLA supergroup, Down) founded the band in 1988 with vocalist Mike IX...2025-02-0715 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsSammy Duet (Guitar) GoatwhoreRampaging into their 25th year as purveyors of the most ruthless extreme metal, Goatwhore return with perhaps the strongest album of their storied career. Angels Hung From The Arches Of Heaven is 47 minutes of their trademark blend of death, black, thrash and sludge metal delivered with breathless intensity and an unrepentant bloodlust, making for one of the most thrilling records to come out of 2022. “I would describe this record as being very raw, but clarity is shaped within the chaos,” states vocalist Louis Ben Falgoust II. “It’s a journey of everything we have done and some new approaches as we ad...2025-02-0717 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsBen Lumber ( Vocals) & Alex Freeman (Guitar) Acres InterviewFollowing the incredible success and adoration received from 2019’s stunning debut ‘Lonely World’, a record that harnessed melody and melancholy to devastatingly gorgeous effect, Acres found themselves playing the biggest shows of their career so far and achieving things they had only previously dreamt about.
But when the world around them suddenly felt so uncertain, they had a choice to make of what they should do next. Instead of rushing out with something that they didn’t fully believe, they locked themselves away and painstakingly created something that not only represented where they had been but also where th...2025-01-2421 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsTom Gentil ( Bass) Jovian Storms interviewDeriving their name from the colossal tempests raging on Jupiter, a planet known for its ferocious beauty and epic scale, Jovian Storms' music invites you to witness the collision of crushing riffs and atmospheric synths, as the band embarks you on a spacefaring journey.
I got to sit down and talk with bassist Tom Gentil where we talked about how the band started, the recording process for their EP, 'Umbra', and much more!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
...2025-01-1027 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsTuomas (Bass) Sami (Drums) Carolin (Vocals) ORBITEROrbiter is a heavy psych and doom metal band hailing from Helsinki in Finland. The band blend together heavy riffs with soaring vocals and haunting psycedelia.
The bands debut full-length, 'Hollow World', came out in September of 2023 picking up exactly where they left off with their 2020 EP, 'The Deluge'.
I got to sit down with members Tuomas, Sami and Carolin where we talked about the recording of the album, working with producer Hiili Hiilesmaa and their expierience of coming over to Ireland to play at the Siege of Limerick festival.
With great stories...2024-12-2753 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsTony Evans (Vocalist) DESOLATED interviewDesolated are a five-piece hardcore band, lyrically inspired by remorse and experiences, touring worldwide and promoting their message; this is a band with extensive presence and unstoppable momentum. Desolated have numerous releases to their name, not to mention countless performances, ranging from intimate basement shows to international Main Stage festival appearances. Without exception, the atmosphere is consistent- expect nothing less than an intense display of violence.
I got to sit down with vocalist Tony Evans where we talked about the tour with Malevolence, his go-to meal deal from Tesco and the recording of their single, 'VICTIM'.
2024-12-1321 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsCharlie (Guitar and Vocals) Otto (Bass and Backing Vocals) CRASHFACE interviewAlternative punk duo CRASHFACE are back with their brand new single and chaotic music video for 'MANIAC', which features a guest collaboration from Wargasm's Sam Matlock. Along with the new track, the band have announced their brand new upcoming EP, LIFE AND DEATH IN THE WASTELAND, due for release 13th September.
"This one is for embracing crazy. Continuing on from the story of 'C.H.A.I.N.S.A.W', 'MANIAC' persists with venom in expressing frustration with the modern world, specifically the music industry (The Wasteland), especially in what it's forcing artists to do in...2024-11-2933 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsEnrico (guitars) Stefano (Bass) Eduardo (Drums) Hideous Divinity interviewFrom Italy, Hideous Divinity are a death metal band compromised of members from Aborted and have been active since 2007. With 5 albums, inclduing their 2024, 'Unextinct', release, going on tour with Nile and bringing the Italian death metal with them.
I got to sit down with Enrico, Stefano and Eduardo before they hit the Opium stage playing Nile, Intrepid and Pestifer where we talked about Father Ted, the recording process for their new album, 'Unextinct', and how the tour with Nile, Intrepid and Pestifer was going.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to...2024-11-1733 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsSimo (Guitars) Aldo (Guitars) Intrepid interviewFormed in Tallinn, Estonia, in 2016 they started out as a thrash metal band. Quickly though, leaving thrash band in favour of Old School Florida Death Metal. The bands debut EP came out in 2017, 'Empress of Devastation', with even more music following.
In 2023 their EP, 'Slaying Of Sanity / Murder of Mind', came out in January.
I got to sit down with Simo and Aldo, guitarists for the band right after their set in the Opium in Dublin where they were playing with Nile, Hideous Divinity and Pestifer where we talked about the recording of the EP...2024-11-1625 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsPestifer Full band interview!The project was fantasized by young hairy twins, fanatics of 90’s death metal scene. With a first EP in
2006, Pestifer aligns concerts on a local scale. In 2010, the band takes a new dimension releasing its
first album, “Age of Disgrace”. Two European tours in support of Kataklysm and Krisiun follow
and they sign with Ultimhate Records.
Following a new 13-date European tour with Nile, Pestifer release a new album on Greatdane
Records in 2014. “Reaching the Void” confirms the band’s musical direction and brings a new trend
with more “sci-fi” themes.
The following...2024-11-1516 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsDavid Bruno (Vocalist) SUMMONING THE LICH InterviewSpeaking on the new single and music video, David Bruno (vocals) comments: “We open up our second album with Return To The Soil, which is fitting because it was one of the first songs we really nailed down when we were first crafting Under The Reviled Throne. It describes the Lich’s journey into the wastes as he and his mighty army begin their quest to dominate the continent. Also there are witches, and I love writing songs about witches”
After three years of extensive US touring and shows with the likes of Allageon, Gorod and Inferi among...2024-11-0135 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsDane Evans (Vocals) Matt Clarke (Bass) Jack Simioni (Guitars) Nic Webb (Guitars) To The Grave InterviewEveryone's A Murderer promises to be TO THE GRAVE's heaviest and most evolved offering yet, both sonically and thematically. The album attacks societal and environmental themes with the relentless intensity the band are known for, giving voice to the voiceless via their unique, signature blend of brutally impactful deathcore. Providing further insight on the new album, Evans shares:
"For this record my aim was to speak through the faceless activists that fight for animals, for those living in vystopia feeling alone and helpless in a world that will fight tooth and nail to defend the animal holocaust...2024-10-1842 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsViktor (co-vocalist and guitarist) of the Danish band Demersal interviewDemersal is a band that has never feared exploring emptiness and intense emotions through
their raw and aggressive sound and is set to share their most complete and diverse
examination yet with their self-titled new album.
Hailing from Odense and Copenhagen, Demersal weave squalls of sound and emotions that
reflect the intensity of frustration that increasingly sweeps the crumbling world. They draw
on the dispute of hardcore and anguish of screamo within their sound and align it to
blackened post rock contemplation to cast a richly intense but equally cathartic confrontation2024-10-0419 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsTom West (Vocals) & Rob Piper (Guitars) Darko interviewOver a raucous decade, DARKO have by definition, become veterans of the UK punk scene and it is not uncommon to see them standing as an essential name within the intricate and complex world of contemporary punk and hardcore.
In 2020, longtime voicebox Dan Smith returned to his native Australia and parted ways with the band after so long in the vox seat. Dan’s evocative, emphatic and emotional lyricisms have left quite the legacy throughout the band's releases. DARKO's four other noisemakers have curated a backdrop of vicious, hybridised Skate Punk and Melodic Hardcore that has been pu...2024-09-2035 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsEd Thompson (Guitarist/Programming) Million Moons InterviewInspired by the final words of Antarctic explorer, Captain Lawrence Oates and his selfless act of sacrifice, I May Be Some Time is the captivating new album from London based instrumental post-rock trio Million Moons. A breathtaking, immersive experience, I May Be Some Time is a tribute to people like him, who hear the call of adventure and risk it all to carve a path into the unknown. Its seven tracks are designed to take the listener on a musical voyage, inviting you to picture the trials and tribulations of a crew retracing Oates’ footsteps – and perhaps ultimately meeting the...2024-09-0627 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsAlan Day (Vocals & Guitars) & Dan O'Connor (Vocals & Guitar) (Four Years Strong) InterviewWhen it was time for Four Year Strong to prep what would become their sixth album, analysis paralysis, they were truly, finally, stumped. Vocalist/guitarists Dan O’Connor and Alan Day showed up to producer Will Putney’s studio on day one of recording without a single finished song, in stark contrast to the 40-some ideas they brought to the table for 2020’s Brain Pain.
The two spent those early days in a bedroom at Putney’s house talking about, and listening to, music, desperate for a spark of inspiration. They found it by looking back: at what mad...2024-08-2334 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsGareth Kelly (Gurt) InterviewIt's been five long years since "party doom" riff merchants GURT released their last crushing opus "Bongs of Praise", now on June 7th 2024 they are set to return with their latest, crushing-ist opus yet, "Satan Etc".
A lot has happened in the band members lives since 2019, some suffered tragic losses, some welcomed new life into the world, some grew awesome skullets. Not to mention that global event in 2020 that kept us all inside.
Left to ferment in frustrating circumstances has led to the new material being more aggressive and abrasive than previous offerings, whilst still retaining that...2024-08-0928 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsMikey (vocals) and Jesse (guitar) (The Gloom In The Corner) InterviewThe Gloom In The Corner is an Australian metalcore & cinema core taking listners on a journey with their music, following a storyline in their albums and creating their own universe featuring character Sherlock Bones whose story is full of twist and turns.
I got to sit down with members Mikey (vocals) and Jesse (guitarist) before they hit the stage of Whelans Main Room in Dublin where we talked about how the band got their unique name, the recording process behind their new single, 'The Jericho Protocol', and their first time in Ireland.
With great stories...2024-07-2619 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsProfiler full band interviewProfiler is a Nu-Metal reawakening from the mind of vocalist and guitarist Mike Evans. This band is inspired by those who have incited change in genres, arts, and theories. It's a weight of legacy that Profiler is comfortable shouldering, backed by SharpTone Records, its home since 2020. After starting as a solo project in Bristol, UK, Mike stepped out from the studio and onto the stage, enlisting bassist/vocalist Joe Johnson and drummer Oscar Hocking. In early 2023, Oscar departed to be replaced by Brad Ratcliffe, cementing the line-up that would forge 2024's debut album, A Digital Nowhere.
I...2024-07-1215 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsInterview with Ian George, vocalist of Amongst LiarsA tight powerhouse of a band; urgent, questioning, loud and fierce. Together they play heavy and direct modern rock ’n’ roll: massive riffs and powerful, melodic choruses, fuzzy guitar, pummelling drums and bass, pin-balling between heavy alternative rock, grunge and punk. They also have a lyricist who can’t help but use his band as a platform to air anxieties and raise questions about the world we live in. Debut self-titled album was released in July 2022 to critical acclaim and 'You Are Not a Slave' is the fourth release from their sophomore album Design, scheduled for release on 4th July 2...2024-06-2823 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsInterview with Emily WolfeFrom Austin, Texas, Emily Wolfe is a singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer. She's on a mission to breathe new life into rock n roll with her powerful vocals and shredding guitar style.
Teaching herself guitar from the age of 5, her 3rd album, 'The Blowback', delves into topics such as womens rights, injustices and addiction.
I got to sit down with Emily before she took the stage in the 3Olympia on the first of two nights with The Gaslight Anthem who were on the final strecth of their European tour campaign.
We talked about her...2024-06-1416 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsManuel and Aubin (Butterfly Bulldozer)The debut EP The Great Becoming Of Captain Fuzz is a prologue recounting the meeting of the crew, all motivated to build a spaceship to escape the ecological and social problems of a planet in decline.
The band tells us about their debut: "As a series of humano-droids equipped with a fragment of consciousness is being marketed, the beginning of a new civilizational era emerges, plunging humanity into decline. Not equipped with this fragmented consciousness, the first prototype of this series, OB-1, divides opinions due to its immense power. As a precaution, it will be locked up...2024-05-3121 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsJacob Parkinson (Tortured Demon)Since 2018, Oldham brothers Jacob and Joe Parkinson have been launching a full-scale assault on the UK thrash scene. As founders of UK Thrashcore hopefuls Tortured Demon, they’ve independently released two albums, and worked with various members to bring their trademark live show to eyes and ears nationwide. Before turning 18, they’d already toured with UK thrash royalty Evile and Xentrix, and laid the foundations of their second album ‘Rise Of The Lifeless’ - which would go on to receive critical acclaim from publications including Metal Hammer and Distorted Sound - whilst still in school. Combining Thrash riffs and Hardcore...2024-05-1715 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsJustin and Elaine (Wristmeetrazor)Speaking on the album release, WRISTMEETRAZOR's Justin Fornof (vocals) comments: “This is an incredibly important record for us, Degeneration combines everything we have built with our first two LPs into the strongest iteration of our band. This is us at our most misanthropically realized. The heaviest - both lyrically and musically - and most dynamic presentation of who we are and what we’ve done.”
Having solidified and fine-tuned the strengths of their latest incarnation onstage, the newly upgraded quintet found themselves with a renewed focus leading into Degeneration’s gestation period. During this moment of rare quiet WR...2024-05-0424 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsBrenner Moate (BRAT)Straight out of the Crescent City, BRAT are set to release their forthcoming debut album,
Social Grace, via Prosthetic Records on March 15. Since their 2021 inception, the New Orleans.
Between an intense live schedule over the last three years, which saw BRAT share the stage
with the likes of Eyehategod, Cro-Mags and contemporaries in grind such as ACxDC and
No/Mas, the band recorded Social Grace over the course of a year and a half at HighTower
Recording studio (Thou, A Wilhelm Scream, Eyehategod). Recording songs in batches helped
BRAT finetune and focus...2024-04-1917 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsDave Gregor (Morta Skuld)Formed in 1990 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Morta Skuld are an American death metal band. ‘Creation Undone’ is the latest work of inspired extremity from frontman and mastermind Dave Gregor and co. In a time when the band’s iconic and celebrated debut ‘Dying Remains’ reaches its thirty year milestone, and with recent live activity on both sides of the Atlantic seeing the quartet performing to a ravenous fanbase of metalheads both old and new, Morta Skuld now returns with a ten track opus of pure death metal in their unrelenting and unwavering pursuit of heaviness, still going strong after three decades, a...2024-04-0527 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsJim Hodge: MastiffMastiff have announced their forthcoming album, Deprecipice, will be released on 22nd March via MNRK Heavy. The new release features an onslaught of special guests including Ethan Lee McCarthy from Primitive Man, Harry Nott from Burner, Dan James from XIII and Rob Scott from Yersin.
Everything Mastiff do is in the name of intensity. Since forming amid the misery of Kingston-upon-Hull in 2013, the five-piece have crashed extreme metal, sludge and hardcore together to create the most brutal sonic onslaughts possible. Vocalist Jim Hodge, guitarists James Andrew Lee and Phil Johnson, bassist Daniel Dolby and drummer Michael Shepherd...2024-03-2221 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsCoffin WombOn this weeks episode of The Smashing Skull Sessions I get to talk to KM North, the vocalist and multi-instrumentalist for Coffin Womb.
Coffin Womb is a hardcore project from K.M North. With a focus on making the most unnerving, challenging, heavy music possible.
I got to sit down with KM North where we talked about the puppybowl, the projects new album, 'Godless', and so much more!]
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Coffin...2024-03-0840 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsOV SULFUROn this weeks episode of The Smashing Skull Sessions, I get to sit down and talk to Chase Wilson, the guitarist and backing vocalist.
Ov Sulfur is a blackened deathcore band from Las Vegas, Nevada. In a thrilling display of blackened deathcore prowess, OV SULFUR is proud to announce the release of their latest single 'Hivemind', featuring Lukas Nikolai of MENTAL CRUELTY. The single showcases OV SULFUR's consistent stance against conventional religious narratives and herd mentality, a theme that aligns seamlessly with MENTAL CRUELTY's established defiance in their music.
Chase and I talk about the...2024-02-2321 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsSHAME: Seb Alvarez, vocalist of meth. talks about their sophmore album, how the band started and the story behind their nameThis week for The Smashing Skull Sessions I am joined by meth. vocalist Seb Alvarez. Meth. is an experimental noise metal band formed in Chicago, Illinois.
The band have just released their sophomore album, 'SHAME', and myself and Seb talk about the writing process, how the band started and the backstory of their unique band name.
There are some great stories and loads of banter between myself and Seb so this is one not to be missed.
Check out meth. here:
https://www.instagram.com/meth.band/?hl=en
Available...2024-02-0941 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsTim Yusupov - Olhava (Trna & Somn)This week, Tim Yusupov of OLHAVA joins me on The Smashing Skull Sessions for a chat, ahead of the release of their highly anticipated album, Sacrifice on 26th January.
Every Olhava release brings with it a blizzard of glorious, atmospheric post-black fury that's married perfectly with lush, ambient soundscapes, and let me tell you, Sacrifice doesn't disappoint!!
With so much to discuss, Tim gives me an insight into the writing process for this latest opus, along with the hardships and obstacles that stood in their way over the last 18months. And of course, we also...2024-01-2357 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsTiff Scrivener - Celestial Diadem PromotionsThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, as I chat with Tiff Scrivener of Celestial Diadem Promotions & PR.
Tiff has been working tirelessly within the underground post metal scene, setting up some amazing gigs up and down the UK, with some of the most exciting and important bands on the scene today. With a stacked 2 day post-metal event hitting London at the end of the month, it was a good time to hear all about Celestial Diadem Promotions, and get an insight into what life is like behind the scenes!
Available as always, on...2024-01-1335 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review Room - 12 Essential Albums Of 202312 Essential Albums Of 2023
The Review Room is delighted to share with you all, its 12 Essential albums of 2023. No sequence, no order, just 12 stunning releases that deserve to be part of any music collection!!
Myself ,Tim Pijnenburg, Rich Buley, & Rich Murphy, each brought 3 of our favourite releases of the year to the table, and as you will see, we have assembled quite a unique and eclectic collection of music for you all to check out!
It's never an easy task for one person to highlight just 3 albums from a calendar year, but we did...2023-12-281h 18
The Smashing Skull SessionsBipolar Architecture - Sarp KeskiThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I'm chatting with Sarp Keski of Bipolar Architecture!!
With their new album Metaphysicize soon to be unleashed through the mighty Pelagic Records, Sarp gives me an insight into the creation of this behemoth of a release!
We also discuss, the bands inception, their influences and so much more besides. This Saturday!!! Tune in on YouTube for the visual experience or stream and download on your favourite platform!
Track played: Alienated ©️ Bipolar Architecture, All rights reserved
Podcast edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cel...2023-12-1634 min
The Metal Cell Podcast12 Gauge Outrage: Richie, Ciaran, Bryan & Mike join me to talk about their latest killer EP Sirens and future plans in 2024.It was a pleasure to welcome Richie Harpur (Guitars), Ciaran Foley (Guitars & Lead Vocals) Bryan Steacy (Bass/Backing Vocals) and Mike Howlin (Drums) of 12 Gauge Outrage, purveyors of killer Metal from the southeast of Ireland! The lads join me on the show to talk about their excellent latest EP 'Sirens' (ranked at number 7 in The Metal Cell Best of 2023). We also talked about the recording of their live album which will be released in 2024, the Metal Scene when they started out, setting up their own promotion company and there's plenty of shout outs to some of their favourite bands...2023-12-151h 19
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review Room - Pat, Rich B. & TimThe Review Room For the weekend why not check out another fun packed episode of The Review Room! Tim & Rich B join me this month as we play, discuss and review six more really diverse and interesting releases from:
Bipolar Architecture
Three Eyes Of The Void
Bite The Boxer
Humulus
Wolvennest
The Black Garden Circus
Thanks for stopping by 🙏🖤
"Always Supporting The Scene"
Tracks reviewed and played were:
Bipolar Architecture - Death Of The Architect. ©️ All rights reserved.
https://bipolararchitecture.bandcamp.com/album/metaphysicize
Three E...2023-12-0254 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsDOMHAIN - Andy (Vocals/Bass) & Anaïs (Drums/Vocals/Cello)The Smashing Skull Sessions is delighted to announce our third collaboration with Richie of The Metal Cell podcast .
We interviewed Andy Ennis (Vocals/Bass) & Anaïs Chareyre-Méjan (Drums/Vocals/Cello) of the incrediblly atmospheric, post black metal band Domhain. Since the Northern Ireland based band released 'Nimue' in October, they followed it up with a jaw-dropping performance to a full main stage at The Siege of Limerick, which left me with the feeling that this four piece are one of those special bands that come along once in a lifetime!
Both myself and Richie en...2023-11-2452 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsLEECH - Serge OlarThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast I'm delighted to welcome Serge Olar of Swiss instrumental & post-rock legends LEECH to the show.
Drummer, and one of the founding members of the band, Serge chats with me about the history of the band, the writing process behind their very impressive back catalogue, and we even get an insight into what the future holds for Leech in 2024! All of this and so much more!!
Available on YouTube and all streaming platforms. Be sure not to miss this one!
Track played : March Of The Megalomaniacs ©️ All...2023-11-1842 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review Room - Pat, Tim & Rich B.For the weekend why not check out another fun packed episode of The Review Room!
Tim & Rich B join me this month as we play, discuss and review six more really diverse and interesting releases from :
Winter Dust, Modern Technology, Briqueville, Rorcal, Heretoir, & Myrkur.
Thanks for stopping by 🙏🖤"Always Supporting The Scene"
Tracks reviewed and played were:
Winter Dust - Castelli di Sabbia. ©️ All rights reserved. https://winter-dust.bandcamp.com/album/unisono
Modern Technology - Dead Air. ©️ All rights reserved https://modern-technology.bandcamp.com/album/conditions-of-worth
Briqueville - Akte XVII...2023-11-0451 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Color of Cyan - Eduardo CintronThe Smashing Skull Sessions Podcast
This week I'm delighted to welcome guitarist & producer Eduardo Cintron of the neo-classically inspired, post-rock driven collective, The Color Of Cyan to the podcast. Eduardo's latest album Egress is a thing of utter beauty, and the man himself was an absolute gent to chat with. We discuss the creation of the album, musical influences, the US music scene, and so much more besides!
Available on YouTube and all good streaming platforms.
Download and enjoy!
ALWAYS SUPPORTING THE SCENE
Edited and produced by Richie Duhig.2023-10-2135 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review Room - Pat, Tim & Rich M.The Review Room
For the weekend why not check out another fun packed episode of The Review Room!
Tim & Rich M join me this month as we play, discuss and review six more really diverse and interesting releases from :
Glen
Domhain
False Hope For The Savage
Etnah
Godthrymm
A Pregnant Light
Thanks for stopping by 🙏🖤
"Always Supporting The Scene"
https://youtu.be/8JVC4fbHI2Q
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1gj6tWS696ViEj1EApIUM7?si=mWKUARPUS8aIHGgFmmQaZA
https://podcasts.apple...2023-10-0745 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsTrounce - Jonathan NidoThe Smashing Skull Sessions Podcast:
This week on the podcast I chat with Jonathan Nido, and his latest project Trounce. Many of you already know Jona from his band Coilguns and his record label, Hummus Records. Well his latest adventure,Trounce is a hybrid of extremes, blending black, prog and punk influences to create something really special.
On the show, we discuss many topics including the specially commissioned Roadburn Festival, and the studio album that will accompany it's release. A great guy, an incredible talent, and a legend for answering all that was thrown at...2023-09-2331 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review RoomHi everyone and welcome to another episode of The Review Room - part of The Smashing Skull Sessions.
This week, Tim, Rich B & Rich M join me on the podcast as we play, discuss and review six really diverse and interesting releases from Green Lung, Umoora, Mairu, As Friends Rust, Obsidian Tide & Dead Neanderthals.
Thanks for stopping by 🙏🖤
Tracks reviewed and played were:
Green Lung - Mountain Throne ©️ All Rights Reserved
https://greenlung.bandcamp.com/album/this-heathen-land
Umoora- Kong ©️ All Rights Reserved
https://umoora.bandcamp.com/album/splitter
Mairu...2023-09-0943 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsSyberiaThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, it’s a pleasure to have three members of post metal outfit SYBERIA on the show. Quim, Jordi & Manel sit with me for a chat before heading out on a lengthy European tour, that finishes up the weekend this show goes out!
As well as touring, we discuss the bands colossal release, Statement On Death, as well as having a few laughs on the session questions and of course much more besides.
Available to download on all good streaming platforms as well as the visual experience on Yo...2023-08-2647 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review Room - Pat, Rich M & Rich BThe Review RoomThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I'm delighted to bring you all another episode of The Review Room.Rich B & Rich M join me on the podcast as we play, discuss and review four new releases from SO HIDEOUS, DIN OF CELESTIAL BIRDS, OSTRACA & NONE.
We also choose another music related topic to discuss and chew over, and this week it's the turn of Arctangent festival.Thanks for stopping by 🙏🖤Tracks reviewed and played were:
So Hideous - Bright Black Beach. ©️ All rights reserved.https://silentpendulumrecords.bandcamp.com/album/bright-black-beach
Din Of...2023-08-121h 02
The Smashing Skull SessionsLiving with Giants - Ryan & CarverThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast I welcome Ryan and Carver of LIVING WITH GIANTS to the show. New music has just dropped from these guys and let me assure you, it is EPIC.
On the show, we have an open and honest conversation about their journey over the last couple of years, which has all culminated in this latest release, and which is a giant step forward musically for the band.
As always, we cover many more topics along the way, including the now well established, session questions, which proved very interesting!.2023-07-2959 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Depth Beneath Us - Dan, Matt, Ryan & MikeThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I'm joined by Pennsylvania's The Depth Beneath Us.Their sonic and dynamic blend of powerful post-metal transfused with softer ambient atmospherics has made their debut album a must have in every music collection.
Dan, Matt, Ryan & Mike are four of the coolest guys I've sat with, and together, they discuss the creation of that incredible album as well as giving some insight into the workings and mechanics of the band. We also take a look ahead to the future plans of the band, share a few laughs along the...2023-07-1551 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsThe Review RoomThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I'm delighted to bring you all the first episode of our new series, The Review Room.
Tim, Rich B & Rich M join me on the podcast as we play, discuss and review four new releases from LEECH, KRANE, MOURNING COLOURS & A HORRIBLE DEATH TO A HORRIBLE MAN. The idea of this show is primarily to showcase new music, but we also hope it brings a bit of light hearted entertainment along the way with it!
We will also choose another music related topic to discuss and chew...2023-07-011h 06
The Smashing Skull SessionsTREEBEARD - Pat, Beau & RhysThis week, Pat, Beau & Rhys of TREEBEARD join me on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast!
The Melbourne 4-piece released their beautifully dark and emotive debut album Nostalgia back in 2021, and since then I've been keeping my eye on the band.
We discuss the concept and writing process of the album and also look ahead to what's in store for the band over the next few months, which is very exciting!!! We also have some fun with our three session questions, to round off a hugely entertaining conversation.
Track played: Pollen ©️ Treebeard. All rights reserved.
...2023-06-1753 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsEF - Niklas Åström and Daniel ÖhmanOn this week's podcast, I get to chat with Niklas Åström and Daniel Öhman of Swedish post-rock royalty EF. Ahead of their appearance at dunk!festival, we catch up and chat about everything that has happened over the last 20 years, and look ahead to what the future brings. Open, honest and downright interesting, this is well worth a watch.
Available on YouTube and all good streaming platforms.
Track played: Moments Of Momentum ©️ EF. All rights reserved.
Edited and produced by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
The Smashing Skull Sessio...2023-05-2758 min
The Smashing Skull Sessionsdunk! festival Special #2: A Burial At Sea, Indignu & HuracanSo here it is, the second of our dunk!festival specials, and I'm delighted to welcome Paddy of A Burial At Sea, Geert & Christophe of Huracan and Grace, Alfonso and Ivo of Indignu to the show.
All three bands share their thoughts on this year's dunk! festival and give us some clues as to what we can expect their sets to sound like! . We also chat about who they are most looking forward to witnessing on the dunk! stage, and have a good old fashioned chin wag about everything in between.
I thoroughly enjoyed this...2023-05-111h 29
The Smashing Skull Sessionsdunk! Special #1: Solkyri & Am Fost La Munte Și Mi-a PlăcutThis coming Saturday on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, we have the first of our dunk! specials, and I'm delighted to welcome Andrew of Solkyri and Mircea of Am Fost La Munte Și Mi-a Plăcut to the show!
Both bands have already graced the dunk! stages, so it was great fun to look back and reminisce on their past experiences. We also look forward to this years festival, and have a good old fashioned chin wag about everything dunk! related. Great fun! 🔥🖤
Tracks played:
Shambles ©️ Solkyri, All rights reserved.
Ne Cerem Scuze Pentru Disc...2023-04-2256 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsA Swarm Of The Sun - Erik Nilsson & Jakob BerglundThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast I get to tick off another bucket list band, as I share a fascinating conversation with Erik Nilsson & Jakob Berglund of A SWARM OF THE SUN.
Heavy, unsettling soundscapes intertwined with restrained patience and devastating power makes A Swarm Of The Sun one of the most intriguing and absorbing post bands out there today. On this episode, Erik and Jakob give me an incredible insight into the creative writing process that shapes their sound, and also give me some foresight into future works. An episode not to be missed...2023-04-081h 34
The Smashing Skull SessionsFARGO - Ralf & MaxThis week on Smashing Skull Sessions podcast I am delighted to welcome Ralf and Max of FARGO to the show for a chat.
After an extended hiatus, the Leipzig based four piece are back with a new line-up and a brand new album, GELI, which was only released this month!!.
On the show, we discuss the concept and recording process of the new album, as well as taking a look back on the early days of the band. What we don't discuss however, is the reason why every Fargo track is named after a city!!😃🤐
...2023-03-2540 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsCarved Into The Sun - Eric ReifingerThis week I am delighted to welcome Eric Reifinger of CARVED INTO THE SUN to the podcast. Since the release of "The Earth Fell Away" back in 2022, the album has featured very strongly in various music polls and end of year lists. Powerful, emotive and memorable is how best to describe Eric's music.
Both myself and Tim take time out to chat with Eric and discuss last year's phenomenal release, uncovering the very personal and emotional journey he underwent in writing this album. We also chat about the impact WherePostRockDwells has had on the album release, and...2023-03-1158 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsRaum KingdomThe Metal Cell Podcast and The Smashing Skull Sessions have come together once again to showcase yet another one of Ireland's metal powerhouses. Raum kingdom are one of the finest sludge/post-metal bands on the scene today, and have been causing rumblings within music circles right here at home and further afield as well.
Since the release of Everything And Nothing back in 2019, a lot has happened within the Raum Kingdom family. The sad and sudden passing of bassist Ronan "Bones" Connor back in 2021 shook the foundations of the band to the very core. Big decisions were...2023-02-241h 01
The Smashing Skull SessionsPray for Sound - Joe Aylward & Bruce MalleyThis week I'm delighted to welcome Joe and Bruce from Pray For Sound to the podcast. I have to say, this was a really cool and fun chat, with the guys giving me a great insight into the band.
From the colossal tour dates that never happened, right through to the album that will happen soon, the lads lift the lid on many aspects of the band, bringing up some really big and important decisions that were made along the way. We even discuss less important topics like what their favourite tipple is, which in itself is...2023-02-1852 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsPSYCHONAUT - Guitarist/Vocalist - Stefan De GraefThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast we have one of the finest post metal bands on the scene today. Vocalist and guitarist Stefan De Graef of PSYCHONAUT joins me on the show to discuss many topics, including the early days of the band, and brings me right up to speed on where they are at today.
The conversation flowed and many topics were covered, including covid, philosophy, religion, writing and so much more besides. Stefan was a brilliant guest and I want to that him for his open and honest approach to everything we discussed...2023-02-0458 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsSagor Som Leder Mot Slutet - Jonas & MartinThis week I'm delighted to welcome SAGOR SOM LEDER MOT SLUTET to the show for a chat.
Guitarist Jonas and drummer Martin sit down with me and discuss the colossal year that the band have just put down. From releasing their brilliant third album III, to touring across Europe, which included a very memorable performance at the mecca of post music, dunkfest!, we look back fondly at a defining year for the four piece.
Sagor Som Leder Mot Slutet are an incredible band, and true to form, great guys to chat to!. Good craic and...2023-01-211h 09
The Smashing Skull SessionsRise to the Sky - Sergio González CatalánThe first Interview of 2023 is with Sergio González Catalán of Atmospheric Doom metal project RISE TO THE SKY.
Hailing from Santiago, Chile, Sergio was a fascinating guest to talk to, and was very open and honest about his music and the emotions that drive him to create such heartbreaking and powerful music. With three album releases within the space of 14 months, he is one of those solo projects with endless talent and creativity.
We dig deep on many topics on this episode, and I'm sure this will be one to watch for those of...2023-01-071h 11
The Smashing Skull SessionsUnearthed - Volume 2. Digging up more of the best tracks of 2022Here it is... Volume 2 of the top 20 tracks of 2022. Spanning through many musical genres and styles , both myself and fellow writer Tim Pijnenburg have somehow managed to come up with 20 tracks that have hit hard this year. Not an easy task, as this list could very easily have gotten out of hand!
Compiled over two volumes, the 20 tracks will be available to stream and play through YouTube and all good streaming platforms. Thank you to all the bands who have given us permission to share and use their music, you are all insanely talented. Everyone else, just...2022-12-221h 18
The Smashing Skull SessionsUnearthed - Volume 1. Digging up some of the best tracks of 2022What an incredible year it has been for The Smashing Skull Sessions. Since I took over hosting duties back in February, I have been both privileged and honored to have interviewed so many great bands and reviewed so many stellar album releases. Spanning through many musical genres and styles , both myself and fellow writer Tim have somehow managed to come up with 20 tracks that have hit hard this year. Not an easy task, as this list could very easily have gotten out of hand!
Compiled over two volumes, the 20 tracks will be available to stream and play...2022-12-171h 20
The Smashing Skull Sessionsdunk!festival & dunk!records : Luc and Wout Lievensdunk!festival has always featured heavily on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast during the ten months that I have hosted the show. I got to chat with some of the amazing bands on their roster like We Lost The Sea, Turpentine Valley, Silent Whale Becomes A Dream, Coastlands, Astodan and Ranges. So, for my final guests of 2022, I'm delighted to welcome founding members of dunk!, Luc & Wout Lievens to the show. On this episode we take a chronological journey through the early days of dunk! right through to the musical mecca that it is today.You can catch this...2022-12-1046 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsOH HIROSHIMA - Jakob HemströmThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I get to chat with Jakob Hemström of the brilliant OH HIROSHIMA.
Jakob and myself took a trip down memory lane, looking back on the bands past releases and getting an insight into how each album came together. We do spend a little more time on IN SILENCE WE YEARN, discussing how influential and important this album has been within the realms of post rock for almost close on a decade.
We discuss lyrics, line-ups, touring, and a look at the undeniable wealth of Swedish bands t...2022-11-261h 00
The Smashing Skull SessionsRanges - CJ Blessum & Wilson RaskaThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I am proud to welcome RANGES.
Hailing from Bozeman, Montana, RANGES have been a beacon of light for the Post Rock genre for nearly a decade. The vast and rugged landscape of Montana has clearly defined and shaped their sound, with their mix of powerful, transcendent post-rock blended beautifully with serene and subdued ambient soundscapes.
Founding members CJ Blessum and Wilson Raska joined me for a chat, where we discuss the band's early days right through to their European tour which wrapped up a few months back. 2022-11-1247 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsMountainscape - Dan and James ScrivenerMOUNTAINSCAPE
This week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I get to chat with Dan and James Scrivener of Mountainscape.The Reading trio have just released a beast of an album in the shape of Atoms Unfurling, and I was delighted to get the chance to discuss the process that was involved in writing such an intense and powerful record. We discuss the guys musical influences as well as the pros and cons of playing music as a three piece.
Topics like music promotion and social media are also chewed over, and not forgetting the...2022-10-291h 05
The Smashing Skull SessionsGod is an Astronaut: Torsten Kinsella (Guitars/Pianos/Synths) discusses his involvement in the music scene and the 20th anniversary of God is an Astronaut's debut album 'The End Of The Beginning'.It was a pleasure to welcome Torsten Kinsella (Guitars/Pianos/Synths) of God is an Astronaut to the show. The Irish instrumental/post-rock behemoths have been around for over two decades, and for this special podcast we get to discuss and celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut album 'The End Of The Beginning'. Myself and Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast chat to Torsten about the latest live interpretation of the album, where the band breathe new life into the record, showcasing how God Is An Astronaut have evolved since their inception.
We also get to...2022-10-141h 10
The Smashing Skull SessionsJo Quail - Cellist/ComposerThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, I get to spend time chatting to the amazing Jo Quail.
"Heaviness is an emotional concept rather than an expression of volume" - Jo Quail.
Jo has been hugely influential in rock and metal circles with collaborations and guest appearances on many big albums, as well as supporting a vast array of bands on the road, such as MONO, Amenra, Boris, Myrkur, Emma Ruth Rundle and Caspian to name just a few.
Greater than the sum of all that however, Jo is a hugely respected...2022-10-081h 16
The Smashing Skull SessionsLong Distance Calling: Florian Funtmaan (Guitars)This week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast we have guitarist Florian Füntmann of Long Distance Calling on the show.
Amidst a hectic schedule, Florian pulled his car in to have a chat with me and I think we both thoroughly enjoyed catching up!!
We discuss music charts, social media, and get a good insight into what keeps this band so fresh and exciting. We even get a taster of Florian's love of 70's and 80's music!!. All this and more, so be sure to check it out on YouTube, Spotify, iTunes or wherever y...2022-09-2434 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsSilent Whale Becomes A DreamThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast I feel extremely privileged to welcome a band like Silent Whale Becomes A Dream to the podcast. These somewhat enigmatic, but incredibly humble group of musicians opened the door on what Silent Whale Becomes A Dream is all about, sharing their thoughts and their opinions on their own unique sound and of course their affinity with the amazing Elusive Sound. They shed a little light on what is next up for the band, but you need to tune in to find that out!!!Even though English isn't their first language, Sylvain...2022-09-1045 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsFall of Messiah & Chalk HandsThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions Podcast, I'm delighted to welcome Fall Of Messiah and Chalk Hands to the show!.
Ahead of their nine-date European tour, which kicks off in two weeks time, Pierre, Antoine, and Tommy sat in with me to discuss the tour and get some insight into their latest albums, along with future plans for both bands.
We also look back and chat about the early days, right back to choosing the band names!. The conversation flowed and I gotta say, it was an absolute pleasure to catch up with all...2022-08-271h 15
The Smashing Skull SessionsJean-Sébastien Mattant of WHERE MERMAIDS DROWNFor Episode #20 of The Smashing Skull Sessions podcast, Jean-Sébastien Mattant gives an honest and insightful look into his life, and his undeniable love for music. We begin with an update on WHERE MERMAIDS DROWN and find out what plans are being hatched following their hugely successful post-rock release "And The Raging Winds Do Blow".
Often stark but always sincere Jean gives me an "access all areas" look at the work that goes into promoting and organizing gigs under the very industrious POST.LYON banner. We also chat about his music agency THISWILL which covers yet another a...2022-08-131h 29
The Smashing Skull SessionsCOLDBONES & OUTLANDEREpisode #19
The Smashing Skull Sessions chat with Ian of OUTLANDER & Max of COLDBONES.
Fresh from their amazing Dunk! Festival performances, I was lucky enough to sit with Ian of Outlander and Max of Coldbones. After a few false starts on my end!!, we finally got to chat about their dunk experience and the comedown that every artist and fan experiences after it!!
We also discuss the UK music scene and the comparisons to playing further afield throughout Europe. We look into the vision behind their bands artwork, and of course the inevitable, but...2022-07-3055 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsFilipe van Huylenbroeck of IAHTTC and Gato De FogoThis week on The Smashing Skull Sessions Podcast, Filipe van Huylenbroeck joins me on the podcast.
Filipe is one of those naturally talented musicians that can pull a piece of music from the sky and make it beautiful. Some of you may know his name from the brilliant and near cult status band, IF ANYTHING HAPPENS TO THE CAT. He has now released a solo album under the monikor GATO DE FOGO, and his debut solo ablum "Always April" is an absolute gem.
We have a really chilled and informative chat about both his solo...2022-07-161h 16
The Smashing Skull SessionsBlak: Eloi Casellas (Guitars) Carles PD (Drums)Episode #17. BLAK
BLAK are special. This group of musicians from Roda De Ter, Catalonia are a heavy instrumental rock band with an amazing gift to create stunning, classically-influenced stories, awash with vast, open cinematic sounds. It's heavy, it's powerful, it's beautiful and often heartbreaking. Their music has had a profound effect on me, so it was a joy to welcome them onto The Smashing Skull Sessions.
Eloi and Carles are genuinely two of the nicest guys I have come across. We had an open and enlightening discussion about the bands inception, their close connection to...2022-07-091h 30
The Smashing Skull SessionsLucida Dark - Mountaineer - Still MotionsWelcome to The Smashing Skull Sessions Tri-cast series.
We hit the US for our first episode of the new Tri-cast series, which brings three bands together to discuss everything and anything music related!. All hailing from the same country, I'm hoping that these interviews will shed some light on the bands own national scenes and as always, showcase the talent and creativity that's in abundance within the rock/ metal community.
I'm thrilled to welcome James of LUCIDA DARK, Clayton of MOUNTAINEER and Thomas of STILL MOTIONS onto the show to discuss their bands latest releases...2022-06-261h 17
The Smashing Skull SessionsTurpentine Valley.Episode #15 was a very enjoyable and very interesting chat with Kristoff, Roel and Thomas of TURPENTINE VALLEY. These guys' steady development as a dark post-metal powerhouse is plain to see. ALDER is an imposing album, that stands tall and proud among all the other great post metal albums that I have heard in the last few years, which is why I had to get them on the show. We cover many topics including how well ALDER has been received, the connection between ETCH and ALDER, and their journey from their hardcore/punk days to where they stand tall today...2022-06-041h 02
The Smashing Skull SessionsCoastlandsFor Episode #14 on The Smashing Skull Sessions I got the opportunity to speak with Jason Sissoyev of Post-Metallers COASTLANDS.
Firstly, I want to thank Jason for his patience, as I sat on this interview for close on five weeks!, but I am thrilled to be able to share our conversation with you all, and show what a gentleman and what an incredibly knowlegable guy he is.
We spend a lot of time chatting about the hugely impressive and weighty behemoth that is their latest record, DEATH. That album hit like a steam train back in 2020...2022-05-201h 02
The Smashing Skull SessionsAstodanFor Episode #13 on The Smashing Skull Sessions Podcast, I'm thrilled to have Tim Moens of ASTODAN on the show. I have been a fan of Astodan's music since 2017 and have admired their steady climb to the top of the post-metal roster, with their unique ability to go from passages of thick, riff-driven melodies to pin-dropping moments of calm, never losing the mood or the energy.
Tim is a driven guy, with a musical mind that spans beyond the norm. He has a vision and more importantly, the talent to match, in order to make it work. Tim...2022-05-0647 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsVinyl Edition with Philippe & YannickEpisode 12:
On this special episode of The Smashing Skull Sessions, Vinyl Edition, I chat to Philippe Allenbach of Elusive Sound and Yannick Peysale of Voice Of The Unheard, to discuss the explosion of vinyl and the work that's involved behind the scenes in getting these works of art onto our turntables.
The guys give me an insight into what's involved in choosing what bands join their roster, as well as uncovering the workload and dedication required to make these labels survive and rise above the rest. A thoroughly enjoyable and incredibly interesting chat, thank you...2022-04-2350 min
The Smashing Skull SessionsPortal To The God Damn Blood DimensionIn this week's episode of The Smashing Skull Sessions Podcast, I sat down with Scott Wasilewski from PORTAL TO THE GOD DAMN BLOOD DIMENSION.
Rotten Fruit, Regular Orchard is an album that was first released over a year ago, but with a vinyl release now available, the album has been given another lease of life. It's a unique and absorbing piece of music that aches and haunts with its coarse and unpolished delivery. Everybody needs this album in their collection.
Scott describes the writing process as well as the growth of the band and what...2022-04-161h 28
The Smashing Skull SessionsTelepathyNot many bands can play Cinematic Sludge/Post Metal like Telepathy. Their sound is immense, and their live performances, colossal. The whole band sat in with me recently to chat about where Telepathy has been and what the future holds.
We discuss their live shows with Solstafir, their latest Burn Embrace tour, and so much more. A huge thanks to Piotr, Albert, Richard and Krystian for taking the time out to have a chat. Thanks to everyone for their support of the channel so far, and please subscribe to the channel, if you haven't already. Thanks
2022-04-021h 07
The Smashing Skull SessionsDödsrit: Georgios (Guitarist/Vocalist) & Jelle (Bass)This week on The Smashing Skull Sessions I'm thrilled to welcome Georg and Jelle of DODSRIT to the show. Their latest release MORTAL COIL literally blew me away when I heard it back in 2021, showcasing its devastating blend of melody, ferocity and power.
We get to chat about the inception of the band, their musical influences, and their ferocious live shows. Georg sheds some light on the promotional side of things and the graft and passion needed to run his label WOLVES OF HADES. Of course, many more topics are covered, so have a listen and enjoy...2022-03-191h 08
The Smashing Skull SessionsWe Lost The Sea: Mark Owen (Guitars)This week on The Smashing Skull Sessions, I'm honored to welcome Mark Owen of We Lost The Sea.
We Lost The Sea are one of post music's great bands and are probably best known for their album DEPARTURE SONGS, which was released in 2015, and gained them widespread acclaim within the post-rock and metal scenes around the world. The band have reached notable success for their emotional and energetic live performances and modern and thematic approach to the post-rock genre.
On this episode, Mark discusses the impact that album has had on the band, and the hope...2022-03-051h 24
The Smashing Skull SessionsMonosphere: Rodney Fuchs (Drums/Composer)For episode 7, I was delighted to welcome the very knowledgeable and multi talented Rodney Fuchs of Monosphere to the show.
The Puppeteer has to be one of the cleverest and most imaginative releases of 2021, and Rodney gives us an insight into the thought process that masterminded this powerful concept album.
We also cover many other topics including "Spotify V Bandcamp", so be sure to check it out.
Track: The Marionette ©Monosphere, all rights reserved 2022
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/monosphereband
https://monosphereband.bandcamp.com/
https://smashingskullsessions.fireside.fm/2022-02-191h 10
The Smashing Skull SessionsBruit≤: Clément Libes (Bass)This week I got the opportunity to speak to Clement Libes of Bruit≤ . The Machine Is Burning And Everyone Knows It Could Happen Again is their latest release and it is something really special. Bruit≤ have torn up the rule book and have created an album that spans across endless styles and genres without constraints. The music went where it wanted to go, and in doing so has created a piece of work that will sit high in the upper echelons of great albums for a long time to come. Its emotive, diverse and utterly mind changing. Everybody, and I me...2022-02-1256 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsFleetburner: Kevin Storm (guitarist) & Ken Simerly (vocalist) discuss their brilliant debut self-titled album and the paths that lead them to finding each other through an unusual set of circumstances.I was delighted to interview Kevin Storm and Ken Simerly for the show. Fleetburner is an international project from guitarist and songwriter Kevin Storm whom conceived the idea in two months, back in 2018. Fleetburner is a conceptional album, following the adventures of a boy who leaves the sufferings of a war torn land behind by building a ship to escape and sail the oceans. It was great to discuss this story with both Ken and Kevin; who as an incredibly talented touring musician, was able to assemble a stellar cast to perform on the debut self-titled album. The one...2020-11-1657 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsJason Stallworth. Jason is an independent musician, a published author, a YouTuber in which he provides metal guitar, recording, and music gear tutorials.I was delighted to interview Jason Stallworth for The Smashing Skull Sessions. Jason is a terrific example of how hard work, belief and over-coming obstacles can lead to a career as an independent artist with a huge internet following. Jason is also a published author, has released a new death/melodic album titled Masterpeace and reviews beers. It certainly was a terrific conversation with Jason who believed in himself to leave the safety net of a corporate job and to establish himself as an artist of note is truly admirable. Hope you enjoy the interview and check out all...2020-11-021h 14
The Smashing Skull Sessions**** UPDATE ****Due to personal circumstances both The Metal Cell Podcast and Smashing Skull Sessions will not be available until the following dates. The Metal Cell Podcast will resume on 6th of November and The Smashing Skull Sessions will resume on the 2nd of November. Thanks for your patience and support. Richie2020-10-2100 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsGrumpster. Falyn, Noel and Lalo talk about their adventures so far which has seen them sign to Asian Man Records, an invite to tour with Anti-Flag and playing The Filmore.Myself and Evan my co-host (of Worn Out) were delighted to talk to Grumpster, an upcoming garage punk band from Oakland, California. Their star is quickly rising in the Bay Area Punk scene with some brilliant live performances, cool videos and hook laden songs. The group consists of Falyn Walsh on bass and vocals, Noel Agante on drums and Lalo Gonzalez Deetz on guitar. It was great to hear them talk about their adventures so far, which has seen them sign to Asian Man Records, an invite to tour with Anti-Flag and playing The Filmore. Hope you enjoy the...2020-10-1240 minThe Smashing Skull SessionsTerzij de Horde. Johan Van Hattum (bassist) talks about his band, tours and Roadburn festival.Myself and Howard of Partholón were delighted to welcome the wonderful Johan Van Hattum (bassist) of Terzij de Horde to the show. Terzij de Horde is a black metal band with dark vitalism as central theme, from Utrecht, NL, formed in 2010. Johan and Howard share a friendship formed through music over many years. So it was an absolute pleasure to enjoy the stories, insights and love of metal that came out of this unique relationship. Many subjects were talked about whilst downing beers/whiskey and as Johan would say "one could argue" that it was one of the m...2020-10-051h 22The Smashing Skull SessionsMetal For Nepal. Flower KC (Manager of Underside/Festival Director) and Avishek KC (Vox of Underside) talk about Metal For Nepal/Silence Festival.I was delighted to welcome Flower KC (Manager of Underside/Festival Director) and Avishek KC (Vox of Underside)to talk about Metal For Nepal/Silence Festival established to provide relief and support to impoverished communities suffering natural disasters and disease outbreaks across Nepal. In 2015 an eartquake hit Nepal 10,000 people died, 22,000 were injured and 100,000 were made homeless. Flower and Avishek tried to raise money from London and their efforts culminated in Metal For Nepal which brings together people form the Global Metal and Art Communities to help raise awareness and donate money for the ongoing crisis in Nepal. Myself and...2020-09-281h 16The Metal Cell PodcastThe Metal Cell Forums Vlll. Join myself, Danielle, Evan and Jack for banter and chat about all things Metal.Delighted to welcome back my wonderful co-hosts on this terrific episode, where we reviewed Strangers With Guns & AeSects new releases. Our chosen subject was controversial album art.....the many various album covers that were banned, pulled by record labels or survived to remain topical conversational pieces amongst Metal fans. We did a feature on Jacks pick, Zeal & Ardor, a band mixes sounds of African-American spirituals with black metal. As I said before the banter is the best out there in the Metal Scene so please convert, like and leave a positive review on whatever listening platform you are using...2020-08-271h 24The Metal Cell PodcastThe Metal Cell Forums Vll. Join myself, Danielle, Evan and Jack for banter and chat about all things Metal.Delighted to welcome back my wonderful co-hosts on this terrific episode, where we reviewed Element X & Horenda releases and our chosen subject was Heavy Metal Beefs.....the many verbal wars between famous/not so famous metal bands. We did a feature on Danielle's pick for her band to listen to, the abrasive and dark King 810, talked about gigs and some band updates. As I said before the banter is the best out there in the Metal Scene so please convert, like and leave a positive review on whatever listening platform you are using. Many thanks Richie #supportyourlocalmetalscene.
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