Interview: Dark Tranquillity (Beat) + Down & GWAR

It's been a long time between Aussie beers for Dark Tranquillity, bearers of Gothenburg's melodic death torch. Nine years is a long time. "We're sorry we've been absent for so long," says their flame-maned vocalist, Mikael Stanne. "We can't wait. It's going to be awesome," Mikael muses on the upcoming tour. "Hopefully we can make it up to you guys."

Watch me lose my geek shit with Mikael at Beat.com.au

Also: A chat with Philip H. Anselmo of Down

And: GWAR's Oderus Urungus almost declares war on the Netherlands

Interview: Kobi Farhi of Orphaned Land (HEAVY Mag)

Israel's top metal exports Orphaned Land aren't in the music business. They're diplomats, serving a higher purpose. In a special feature for HEAVY Mag, I interview singer Kobi Farhi about the emerging brotherhood of metal in the Middle East. Despite intifada, despite rusted-on hatred and despite being banned all over the Arab world, Kobi and his band have brought Arabs and Jews together with song.

Out now on newsstands. Order HEAVY online, here.

Escape: Australia's Forgotten Metal Legends (Mess+Noise)

I am uncontainably overjoyed to announce my piece on ESCAPE, Australia's most successful and forgotten metal band, is up on Mess+Noise. It's been a mind-blowing journey getting this story together from the guys. The guys who lived  three years of super-stardom from 1984 to 1987 only to have it all taken away. The metal and even music averse will find this story incredible.

Read the article at Mess+Noise.