Inteviews

Arthur Rizk

Eternal Champion

It is all a matter of perspective. In most cases, fans of a band are looking for each new record that would continue the band's musical spirit, not really hoping for any wild changes that may take their attention away, looking for the next best thing. Of course, it is subjective, as freshness, and taking that extra mile by the band to forge a new path for future possibilities, isn't that bad, and some would not call it risk. The US Metal band, Eternal Champion, made a glorious debut album, voted by many as a classic. However, things turned a bit on the new "Ravening Iron", keeping the old yet also offering the new. Steinmetal had a conversation with guitarist Arthur Rizk about the journey of the record, taking that right turn to become a little more than a reproduction of the earlier stuff.

Elias Westrin

Maestitium

Fighting a mental state that might lead a person to a downfall that one cannot comeback from could only be assumed as more than simply states as hard. Enduring and continue going forward in life is a strength beyond strength. To talk about it through music, channeling the emotional side is another way to deal with it. The creator of Maestitium, the Swedish Elias Westrin, has been composing about his feelings, creating an atmospheric mood that is grasping. Through the debut EP, "Tales Of the Endless", streams of thought are there to hold. Steinmetal had a talk with Elias about the concept, the newfound home, the created atmosphere of the record and more…

Rick Metal & Zellpike

Hellspike

There is a lot of anger going in, in particular with the ongoing pandemic that has been spreading, and the end, even if it is somewhere over the rainbow, is still not in reach. Therefore, a wholesome of anguish, dismay and disappointment as things could have been done differently to help others, ease the pain, ease the suffering of isolation and near loss of control. The newcomer Portuguese band, Hellspike, comprised of veterans raising the flag of old school Metal, have a lot to share with their listeners, their attacking form against society's crumbling. Following their debut album, via Metal On Metal Records, "Lords of War", there are morals and lessons to learn. Steinmetal had a chance to talk with Rick Metal and Zellpike of the band, and they had a lot on their minds, the current situation, their vision and the new album.

John Diva

John Diva & The Rocket Of Love

Living the life, gulping every day bit by bit and making the best of it. Whether there are hardships or not, there is always an angle, a measure of positivity that can be deemed as everlasting. Bringing it out colorfully, with a sense of humor and the right kind of chops, there are John Diva & The Rockets Of Love. Passing by the old cliché's, taking examples from the past but knowing how to make good use of them in the now, the US Hard Rock / Heavy Metal is in a constant process of evolution. Sailing with their new album, "American Amadeus", past virtues are receiving a wicked kind of light and the music is everywhere. Steinmetal had the pleasure to talk with vocalist and founder, John Diva, in a rather interesting conversation about life's craziness, good times, partying, the new album and more…

Michael Vetter

Black & Damned

Now who would have known that lockdowns have such as strong effect? It was a first time knowing about this, and no doubt that it was surprise. With the pandemic creating a lot of havoc around it, with people losing their livelihood and one might even argue, their sanity, some could actually take on the challenge and capitalize upon the situation. And there is the German Black & Damned. Emerging from the lockdown, they were able to channel their anger properly, with the power of classic Heavy Metal. Steinmetal talked to one of the founders, Michael Vetter, about this new foundation, the new album, "Heavenly Creatures", images and words and more…

Sören Van Heek

Wizard

After so many years to remain devoted and true, always inspired to create under the same rising sun, now that is a cause for pure admiration. Metal music has been changing constantly, plenty of sub-genres created every once and a while. However, classic Heavy Metal will forever be there, like a watcher, always reminding what started it all. Over three decades, the German Metallers, Wizard, has been out there, fighting in the name of Metal. Call it cliché, but they are honest and true about it. Coming forward with their new "Metal In My Head", there is no place left for interpretation, they are what they are, bound by Metal, steel and good times. Steinmetal had a talk with long time skinman, Sören Van Heek, about the pleasures of the album, the band's continuity and more…

Alan Averill

Dread Sovereign

It is probably better to explore science in terms of history rather than be focused on what is going on outside, the Covid-19 pandemic, upon its damages and effects, which some will take their hold after the virus is already gone. Mankind became something different this year, other than being social, it remained still, at its place, not willing to touch or feel anyone else. The personal space became the main reason to stay healthy in a way, kind of sad. Upon the continuous efforts of his Primordial band, Alan Averill returns with his Heavy / Doom Metal Triumphant Dread Sovereign. Newly signed to one of the giants, "Alchemical Warfare" emerged, and as dirty as it can. Steinmetal had the pleasure to talk to Alan about the new release and the power it holds.

Mike Tirelli

Holy Mother

Everything appears to be connected to perseverance and strong will. When the time is right, and the scene is set for the occasion, even after a long time without that spark in one's eyes to create, it can suddenly return in a blast. After seventeen years, as if out of nowhere, the US Hard Rock / Heavy Metal band Holy Mother returns to recognition, and as it was claimed, back with vengeance, full time, leaving an appetite for more. With the release of "Face This Burn", Steinmetal had the honors to talk with longtime leader, and amazing vocalist, Mike Tirelli, about coming back, why it ended before the break, the new album, its meaning, keeping it up vocally, his past illness and more…

Maxime Soler

Alpha Blank

The sacrosanct elements of music are articles that permeate throughout the ages and Alpha Blank bears no difference in their compositions. Metal Temple's Quinten Serna recently caught up with the band for an online interview.

Marcin Sienkiel

Azarath

It is never easy being the new guy in a veteran band. However, the possibilities could be endless if there are those that are willing to accept new forged ideas, new influences and a direction that is not really a stranger. Therefore, no catastrophes, no need for bickering and protecting the heritage, appearing like a bunch of nonsense. The Polish Black / Death Metal band Azarath, featuring Behemoth's Inferno, recruited the promising vocalists / guitarist, Marcin Sienkiel to become part of the band's legacy of uncompromising extreme Metal. In light of the band's new album, "Saint Desecration" had a chat with Marcin about Covid-19, being the new guy in town, his first album with Azarath and more…

Gui Haunting

Skelethal

Opening another dimension, retaining another possibility, a version of a life that could have been different, for better or for worse. These kinds of wonderings through what could have been, the possibilities, decisions, the works, could be endless, another chip that could make one insane like most of these thoughts. However, from time to time, it kills time, so why not? Maintaining the old flame, but also thinking loudly, the Death Metal mongers of Skelethal deliver their new album, "Unveiling the Threshold", a strong old school vibe, as putrid as it can be. Steinmetal had a chat with Gui Haunting of the band about the new release, the band going forward, the artwork, sound and more…

Gabriele Palermo

Tragedian

Between the everyday struggles, especially due to the situation at hand, and of course, the cosmic, what is there beyond the bright stars in the vast depth of space and time. When thinking about it, there might be a few connecting dots, drawing the two themes closer together, for a creation of a fine mix of reality and imagination, yet with a moral. The German Tragedian were always on that thin line, and for the pandemic year, they unveiled an effort that is more than merely walking the walk of Power Metal. Steinmetal chatted with founder Gabriele Palermo about the new "Seven Dimensions" album, cooperations, new singer, general feel of the material and more…

Vibeke Stene

Veil Of Secrets

Music will always find the way to return to those who haven't practiced it for a while. This passion, like a flame, couldn't never really stop burning. Eventually it will revamp, swiftly take over but with a fresh mind as part of it, it can bring out the best of anyone, create glorious creations and enchantment that are bound to live forever. It may sound over the top, but it is true, a fresh start, a direction to cling on to with a few upgrades. The newly founded Veil Of Secrets, starring ex-Tristania's Vibeke Stene on vocals, takes another form of Doom Metal, and their debut, "Dead Poetry", proves that. Steinmetal had a talk with Vibeke about the new project band, coming back to the Metal fold, tagging with a new partner in crime and more…

Wolf Hoffmann

Accept

Accept are no overnight sensation, and too mean to die. Even in a Pandemic, their next Symphony Of Pain is a balls to the wall, restless and wild ride with no objection overruled. On the verge of a Zombie Apocalypse, they will welcome 2021 with their best album since "Stalingrad"; now featuring three guitarists, after the exit of Peter Baltes. Michael Francisco joined with the mettle heart of Wolf Hoffmann to discuss the recording of the new album, and its simplistic artwork. This rise in discussion focused on other album covers, and Mark Tornillo's chaotic lyrics. What's done is done!

Arnd Klink

Darkness

The fact that bands have to release new material, or sometimes out of the drawer or shelf kind of material, can be interpreted as a sad thing. With the inability to play live, due to the pandemic, that is still with us, and along with the objection to submit to live streams, it is probably best to just have material out in an orderly fashion. The German Thrash Metal veterans, Darkness, are feeling the current state of affairs, and that didn't push them away from showing their relevance with "Over And Out". Short but sweet, but also deadly and unkind, the message is out there. Steinmetal had the chance to talk to Arnd Klink of the band about the new effort, a little pandemic talk, that special cover, and more…

Joe Cangelosi

Uncivil War

Regardless of consequence, some Thrash drummers never received the recognition they deserve, like Joe Cangelosi. Ever since his teens he incorporated his technique, while playing with both East and West Coast Thrash Legends, as well as Florida's Massacre, despite the multiple trauma, after Death. As a witness to the terrific, raw power of his snakepit speed, Michael Francisco adressed this humble human, substantially reflecting his cause for Kreator, for which he would prevail. They focused on Joe's current band Uncivil War, the reunion of Brooklyn Militia and Death Corps, and why Joe was always destined to play in Whiplash; until it was his time to walk the plank.

Jack The Riffer

Generation Steel

To protect and serve, to maintain and to keep, revamping the old sensations and craze that has been a cause effect by worshiping the past, only to come up with a brighter future. The old Teutonic Metal legacy has brought forth some of the most powerful Metal bands and influenced many worldwide. Therefore, in a new generation of Metal, is it even more adequate to get to know a new player in this large field of heavy music, Generation Steel. Saluting the old guarding, and nodding to the old school, the band is releasing their debut, "The Eagle Will Rise". Steinmetal had the privilege to talk to Jack The Riffer, founder and guitarist, about this new experience of Generation Steel, the new album, recruiting the band members and more…

Volker Trost

Human Fortress

Back when it was all fun and games, well perhaps not games but rather true focused hard work. Being a newcomer, especially for bands that wanted more than merely being a rehearsal room band and developing a career, isn't simply laying down and waiting for something. Such a band has to create chances, to aspire to become something more than they are in order to step in the threshold onto the next level. The German Human Fortress are two decades old, they stepped through several thresholds and veils, and proved themselves worthy. Through their upcoming new compilation release, "Epic Tales & Untold Stories", their story is being told and their musical entity slowly growing into the magnificence they are today. Steinmetal talked to founder Volker Trost about the new release, returning to Massacre Records, old memories, the selected songs and more…

John Chief Stergiou

Phase Reverse

Even all was said and done, why the hell not do it again and again? To show that nothing is forgotten, nothing is forgiven, history will be the judge and the hell with all the oppressors. Life has been a mess for a lot of people in the past year, some would say a cursed year due the pandemic, therefore, there is no proper time than the present to unleash what the heart bleeds, what it aches for. The Greek Modern Metallers, Phase Reverse, have been on the rise when it comes to the terrible offerings of everyday life, knowing where to point the fingers and come against what shakes the social order. Their new album, "Phase IV: Genocide", takes a tighter form of music that has various faces, and with a toughened approach in regards to the stories it shares. Steinmetal had the pleasure to talk to John Chief Stergiou of the band about the new record, his perception of the situation at hand in the country, life and more…

Dushan Petrossi

Iron Mask

It has been said more than once that money makes the world go round, evidently not just the world, if you are taking it head on, but also the minds and perception of people that live in it. It is true that without money a person cannot live that much because even though we breath it, air cannot sustain us for food and shelter. However, when it comes to the power of money, it is a about rule, dominion, governance in its corrupted pattern. That phenomenon needs to be stopped at all costs as life is precious, sometimes even more than money. Taking the lead against the conception of money as a source of power of the few, there is Iron Mask, with their new album, "Master Of Masters". Steinmetal talked to guitarist and founder, Dushan Petrossi about the strong messages of the album, the musical content, new vocalist and more…

Joe Caggianelli

Starbynary

STARBYNARY is a project created by two old friends. Joe Caggianelli, after a long experience, as singer of DERDIAN, calls his old friend Leo Giraldi and decides to create STARBYNARY together, this project should mark a turning point into the musical career of both. The name "Starbynary" comes from the concept of astronomy that describes "a star system consisting of two stars orbiting around their common center of mass" it means that this project is a brainchild of two persons that put all themselves into the music of Starbynary as "center of mass". Their latest album, titled "Divina Commedia – Paradiso" earned an "almost perfect" rating from Metal Temple Editor-In-Chief Dave "That Metal Guy" Campbell, who recently caught up with the vocalist Joe Caggianelli to talk about their latest release, and a few other topics.

Chris David

Majestica

When Tommy ReinXeed Johansson from Sabaton was writing the new Majestica with his Motley true bandmates, he opted for a Christmas Themed - Dickens' homage - having played Scrooge when he was younger. The Christmas Carols include Swedish Traditional Songs as the Classic Story unfolds. In time, Michael Francisco spoke further with bassist Chris David about his alliance and managerial duties to the band, forever loyal. He even plays The Ghost Of Marley. Majestica musically are above the guise, and in the future land on their feet. Merry Axemas!

Piet Sielck

Iron Savior

Like a battering ram, the forces of rage and unification known as Iron Savior rebound, like a silver bullet, riding on fire. The landing of "Skycrest" sounds its arrival December 4th. Like a souleater, conditions were red in 2020 as the legends of glory experienced their own dark assault on the mind. As an ode to the brave, Michael Francisco spoke with the Watcher In The Sky - Piet Sielck about a variety of topics; knowing there can only be one. Raise The Flag Of Metal, Fistraiser, our time has come!

Erwin Suetens

FireForce

History teaches, at least from certain points of view, that sometimes to peace can only be achieved, or even protected, by means of violence. It is kind of like to enforce peace by means that are necessary. Diplomacy should always be the aspiration, yet as history shows, violence came forth and took over. With hopes that are society will continue to evolve to find solutions without the use of force, Belgium's FireForce made a quick reminder so folks would never forget the past, even though some never really forgot, with their new album "FireForce". Steinmetal had a chat with guitarist Erwin Suetens about new beginnings for the band, the album's concepts, natural evolution of the music and more…

Jason McMaster

Ignitor

At least from this end, it is hard to call the defense of Metal music as cliché. Metal music has been proven to be more than merely a musical genre but a sort of a religion as well. It is embraces life and freedom, even if it turns harsh as one of its faces. No doubt that basics of Metal were rooted way before the hey days of the genre in the 80s, however, that same decade made Metal music recognizable, so why not celebrate that era again and again, countlessly if needed. The American Ignitor aren't seeking to prove themselves, just merely follow what they believe in. Steinmetal had a great chance to discuss that with vocalist Jason McMaster, along with the band's new album, "The Golden Age of Black Magick"

Viktorie Surmøvá

SURMA

2020 has been a year full of deceptions and turmoil but one thing, one tangent has been stable and that's the oncoming storm of great and new music. 2020 has given us some musical memories beyond our wildest dreams and some surprises along the way. I reviews countless albums this year, probably more than all the years passed and I have been impressed so many times in these trying times. SURMA was a big surprise for me this year and one of the very best albums to come across Symphonic Metal in quite a while. Metal Temple writer Jean-Francois Poulin recently had the chance and privilege to interview to very talented Viktorie Surmova for the likes Metal Temple. In a the metal world full of smoke and mirrors at times, it's safe to say that some bands let true talent shine in front of all the temptations of sight before sound and SURMA is definitely on top of that list.

Fotis Sotiropoulos

Fortress Under Siege

Greek prog/power metal band FORTRESS UNDER SIEGE is one of those bands capable of writing an epic tale lauding the storied history of their homeland or a current song providing insight to how they feel about the current world view. Formed in the mid-1990s, this six-piece unit stands tall with a dual guitar attack and a keyboard player that can weave through their playing with an expertise that is very impressive. With a solid rhythm section and a vocalist that can drop low or soar above the music, this is a band you need in your playlist. Add some HELLOWEEN, SAVATAGE and DREAM THEATER to get a feel for where they fit in the prog/power genre and just enjoy some awesome tunes. Metal Temple writer recently caught up with founding member Fotis Sotiropoulos to talk about the new album.

Tomi Mäenpää

Satan's Fall

So where are we headed anyway? That is quite of a tough question to answer. Is there anyone out there interested in us? It is also hard to say, probably impossible unless we make a break that would change the face of how we are being watched. Sounds familiar right, Star Trekkers rejoice right here. But seriously, there are questions that no one is asking, is there a purpose for us humans. Another thing to think about. Finland's Satan's Fall is taking a higher ground with their new old school Heavy Metal message of "Final Day". New label, new path, revamping the best of the past. Steinmetal talked to founder Tomi Mäenpää about the band's new prospect, philosophy and more…

Butchered

Arallu

Israel is a country with many particular features in terms of Metal. It's not a surprise that names as ORPHANED LAND and MELECHESH had a strong crush on Metal fans' hearts. But another name lies on Israeli underground scene, as good as the previous ones: the name of ARALLU, an Oriental Black Metal act. As they released a new album late last year ("En Olam"), and are re-releasing their first album ("The War on the Wailing Wall"), Metal Temple writer Marcos Garcia had a chance to talk with Butchered, the band's founder, to know what the Jerusalem Demons are planning for the future, what they're doing now, and something about the past.

Lars Döring

Squealer

Madness all around, but how about dwelling on it more than just stating the fact that it is there? It is evident that it could be one hell of a journey to cross through the realms of insanity and its idioms, up until the point when the inside looking in might result in a personal insanity case. It may sound freaky, yet insane talk is fun for a change. Taking insanity into the next level with pure Heavy and Power Metal delivery, made with granduer by German hands, the veteran Squealer returns with, believe it or not, "Insanity". Steinmetal had a chance to look into the release without straightjacket, talking to guitarist Lars Döring, expect an insane ride.

Korinna König

CANTERRA

CANTERRA is a Gothic/Symphonic Metal band out of Leipzig, Germany. They formed in 2006 and after several name changes emerged as CANTERRA in 2016. They recently released their second full-length album, "Heartmachine." Gary Hernandez, staff writer for Metal Temple, caught up with founding member Korinna König to have an in-depth discussion about CANTERRA's latest album, their evolution, and the band's future.

Andrew Hudson

Harlott

As if we haven't been through this so many times, but any time to remind the fact that we might be our own danger, well, it is rather important to bring it up time and time again. It has never been proven the mankind is evil in its nature, yet there have been sayings through history. Nonetheless, there have been enough proofs that we have the ability to be good to one another, overcome situations together united, and this is what mankind should aspire. The Australian Harlott, and their leader Andrew Hudson, believe there is danger looming, and it is just a matter of time. We have to learn a lot in order to stop ourselves in the zero hour. Harlott released the captivating Thrash Metal epos of "Detritus of the Final Age" and it is mighty interesting according Hudson talk with Steinmetal.

Ruben Willemsen, Edwin Hann, Sean Lubbersen, Daniel de Coninck

Xeno

XENO is a Dutch Progressive Metal band, formed in 2011. They have released two studio albums; "Atlas Construct" in 2016, and now "Sojourn" in 2020. The band members are Ruben Willemsen (Vocals, Bass), Edwin Haan (Vocals, Guitars), Daniel de Coninck (Guitars, Vocals), Jasper Bruggeman (Guitars), Sean Lubbersen (Keys), and Richard van Leeuwen played drums on "Sojourn", with Lars van Mourik joining the band as permanent drummer during the release. Metal Temple Editor-In-Chief Dave "That Metal Guy" Campbell recently caught up with the band to talk about the new album, and other things.

Jonathan Verstrepen

Carnation

There have been plenty of speculations over the ages in regards to the experience of Death, and not the process of dying. When the lights go out, and the eyes are finally shut forever, no one knows what there is on the other end. This phenomenon of Death has been an intriguing enigma, with as for now, no mean to solve it. However, it doesn't mean that the imagination cannot cross boarders, coming up with assumptions, whether spiritual or brutal, about the other side. Delivering their sophomore album, "When Death Lies", the Belgian Carnation attempt to do their own exploration. Steinmetal had a talk with the band's Jonathan Verstrepen, crossing the themes of the album, the band's version of Death Metal, and more…

Frank "Blackfire" Gosdzik

Sodom

For those dehumanized Sodomaniacs facing persecution in the Frontline Trench, tapping the vein to hear "Genesis XIX", the decision day dawns. We are all obsessed by cruelty and the beast within, feeling tired and red, and better off dead. The rites of passion and lust for our mortal way of life leads us one step over the line. The exhibition bout betweem Michael Francisco and returning Agent, armed Axeman - Frank Blackfire - is an indoctrination which led to a conjuration for the past and present work with Angelripper. Frank's new clear winter martyrium with Kreator was also revisited with renewal. We remember the fallen heroes like Chris WitcHunter, because you get what you deserve, so Glock 'N' Roll & Party On!

Johannes Carlsson

The Hawkins

"Silence is a Bomb" is the new release from THE HAWKINS (2013) a swell music group from lovely Arboga, Sweden. Metal Temple writer Dani Bandolier recently caught up with guitarist Johannes Carlsson to talk about the new album, and a few other topics.

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Inteviews

Arthur Rizk

Eternal Champion

Elias Westrin

Maestitium

Rick Metal & Zellpike

Hellspike

John Diva

John Diva & The Rocket Of Love

Michael Vetter

Black & Damned

Sören Van Heek

Wizard

Alan Averill

Dread Sovereign

Mike Tirelli

Holy Mother

Maxime Soler

Alpha Blank

Marcin Sienkiel

Azarath

Gui Haunting

Skelethal

Gabriele Palermo

Tragedian

Vibeke Stene

Veil Of Secrets

Wolf Hoffmann

Accept

Arnd Klink

Darkness

Joe Cangelosi

Uncivil War

Jack The Riffer

Generation Steel

Volker Trost

Human Fortress

John Chief Stergiou

Phase Reverse

Dushan Petrossi

Iron Mask

Joe Caggianelli

Starbynary

Chris David

Majestica

Piet Sielck

Iron Savior

Erwin Suetens

FireForce

Jason McMaster

Ignitor

Viktorie Surmøvá

SURMA

Fotis Sotiropoulos

Fortress Under Siege

Tomi Mäenpää

Satan's Fall

Butchered

Arallu

Lars Döring

Squealer

Korinna König

CANTERRA

Andrew Hudson

Harlott

Ruben Willemsen, Edwin Hann, Sean Lubbersen, Daniel de Coninck

Xeno

Jonathan Verstrepen

Carnation

Frank "Blackfire" Gosdzik

Sodom

Johannes Carlsson

The Hawkins

Latest Reviews

Fate Weaver

Typhus

IDSUNGWÜSSÄ