Scars and Guitars

Robert Saler (Theologian, scholar, and author)

Robert Saler is an Associate Dean for Evaluation and Assessment, Associate Professor of Theology and Culture, and Executive Director of the Center for Pastoral Excellence and the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program at the Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. Robert is also an author and theologian who specialises in the intersection of faith and modern society, covering pastoral sabbaticals, theology of the cross, and religion's role in today's culture. Steve Von Till from Neurosis introduced me to Robert, an opportunity I'm thankful for, as I've been eager to find a guest who resides at an intersection of extreme metal and faith for the show. 
It'd be tempting to say this is a different guest from what you are used to, but that isn't true. I was the first journalist to contact Stuart Anstis, who blew the lid off the popular narratives surrounding Cradle of Filth. I'm the only person to interview Trey from Morbid Angel's mother. Across 800 other episodes of the show, you have become familiar with my technique of allowing the guest to brooch topics across all social, political and religious contexts. 
But this conversation goes beyond typical discussions of faith; it's a deep exploration into his path to spirituality, ministry, and scholarly work in theology. I hope this is the first of many insightful discussions with Robert. 

Vinnie Dombroski (Sponge)

Vinnie Dombroski, the frontman of alternative rock band Sponge, talks about the story behind 'Planet Girls', a long-lost album that has recently been released. Originally intended to follow the success of their iconic albums' Rotting Piñata' and 'Wax Ecstatic', the label shelved Planet Girls and remained unreleased for years.
Vinnie discusses the original sound and vision of 'Planet Girls', which aimed to align more closely with Sponge's earlier work rather than the pop-oriented direction of 'New Pop Sunday'. He sheds light on the pressures from the music industry in the late '90s, including the influence of contemporary bands like Goo Goo Dolls and the impact these pressures had on the band.
The conversation also explores Vinnie's collaboration with producer Kevin Shirley on the 'Planet Girls, the enduring relationship with Tim Patalan (producer of 'Rotting Piñata' and 'Wax Ecstatic'), and the dynamics within the band during those pivotal recording sessions.
Further, Vinnie touches on the legacy of Sponge's music, particularly discussing tracks like 'Neenah Menasha' and its significance in the '90s alternative rock scene. He also pays tribute to the unique talents of band members like Mike Cross (RIP) and Joey Mazzola, giving fans a deeper insight into the chemistry and creativity defining Sponge's sound.
https://www.spongetheband.com/

New music show April 2024

The Scars and Guitars April new music show is FULL of black and extreme shit!
The show kicks things off with DEICIDE performing "Sever The Tongue," followed by Kerry King's "Residue." DARKTHRONE will present "Black Dawn Affiliation", and ACCEPT brings "Humanoid." The Omnific will showcase "Matrices," and APOCALYPTICA covers "The Unforgiven II." WARDRUNA will perform "Hertan," with Týr following with "Dragons Never Die."
DORO will hit the stage with "Lean Mean Rock Machine," and FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH teams up with DMX for "This Is The Way." Orange Goblin delivers "(Not) Rocket Science," and MONO will perform "Oath." ZEAL & ARDOR are set to play "TO MY ILK," with DOPETHRONE bringing "Shlaghammer." Demersal introduces "Lys I Natten," and Faustian performs "Primordial Rot."
Skulldozer begins with "Bow To None," PARACRONA features Baard Kolstad for "Carry The Cross." Darkthrone returns with "The Bird People Of Nordland," and Blaze Of Perdition plays "W kwiecie rozłamu." Morgue Meat takes the stage with "Crushing The Messiah's Skull," followed by KRÅBØL with "Perish." Enevelde will perform "Pandemonium," and Whoredom Rife presents "Den Vrede Makt."
Nekyian offers "Hevn," and Nachtheem presents "Drift van Nostalgie." Obscuration will play "Violent Art," with Death Like Mass performing "Sorcery Unbridled." Altar Of Gore introduces "Carrion Womb," Hässlig plays "Slaves," and Unborn Generation brings "Heritage." UNITYTX is set for "PLAYING FAVORITES," and 156/Silence presents "Unreasonable Doubt."
Wage War will perform "NAIL5," Make Them Suffer will present "Epitaph," and ERRA will take the stage with "Cure." AZIMUT19 will showcase "Anger Plague," and SMOKE AxD will perform "Smoke All Day." Vulture is lined up with "Oathbreaker," and Belushi Speed Ball closes with "My Favorite Color is Pizza." 
Check out past issues here! https://scarsandguitars.com/monthly-music-show/

Cremator (Ghoul)

Join Cremator from Ghoul as he unearths the sinister secrets of Creepsylvaniana. Fresh from the release of their latest EP, "Noxious Concoctions," Cremator takes us on a chilling journey through the genesis of their ghoulish creations. From the infernal inspiration behind their return to the recording studio to the harrowing sessions at Antisleep Audio, the macabre process is revealed. Prepare for a nightmarish interview direct from the depths of Creepsylvaniana. Welcome to the nightmare...
https://tankcrimes.bandcamp.com/album/noxious-concoctions
PS: I was unaware that the interview would be conducted in character. Feel free to laugh at my expense as I fumble through the initial exchanges, trying to make sense of what's happening - Andrew McK.

Steve Von Till (Neurosis, Harvestman)

Steve Von Till peels back the layers of his new Harvestman release, Triptych: Part One, revealing the genesis of its captivating opening track, "Psilosynth." Steve discusses the creative process as he intricately integrates guitars, percussion, and synths into a cohesive sonic tapestry, guiding listeners into meditative states of consciousness. He also explores the celestial significance of coordinating the album series' release with specific full moons and how ancient sites, folklore, and ancestral resonance infuse the sonic landscapes of Triptych.
Steve sheds light on the significance of the title "Triptych". He reflects on Henry Hablak's artwork as a visual representation of the auditory journey and his hopes for listeners' takeaway from Triptych: Part One. Additionally, he reflects on Neurosis' monumental album, Through Silver in Blood, exploring its enduring influence on today's extreme metal landscape and the pivotal role he played in shaping its sound.
https://www.vontill.org/

Glen Benton (Deicide)

Glen Benton of Deicide discusses the intricacies of the latest album, Banished By Sin, and the band's enduring legacy. Reflecting on past performances, we address musical evolution and the contributions of new guitarist Taylor Nordberg and sound engineer Jeramie Kling (both in Inhuman Condition). Benton shares insights into guitarist Mark English's departure and talks about the pivotal partnership with Ralph Santolla. From bass setups to managing fan encounters, we also tackle pressing socio-political issues, including the impact of left-wing authoritarianism and the future of global leadership.
 
https://deicideofficial.com/

Dave Lupton (Flaming Wrekage)

Dave is from Flaming Wrekage and was invited onto the show to explore their upcoming album, Terra Inferna. We discuss the inspiration behind the album artwork and title and how it reflects the band's evolution. We also examine the creative process behind the innovative track "Ghosts" and how it distinguishes itself from previous works. Dave shares insights on balancing experimentation with maintaining the band's signature sound and incorporating diverse influences into their music while ensuring cohesion throughout the album. We also touch upon the band's recognition on prominent platforms like Apple Music and Spotify and how it has impacted their journey. Additionally, Dave reflects on memorable experiences collaborating with acts outside the thrash metal genre. He shares his hopes and aspirations for Terra Inferna, creatively and in reaching new audiences.
http://www.flamingwrekage.com/

Peter Holmström (The Dandy Warhols)

In this chat with guitarist Peter Holmström, we discuss The Dandy Warhols' latest hard rock venture, Rockmaker. Peter talks about the group's decision to explore heavier genres, collaborations with Debbie Harry, Frank Black, and Slash, and the sold-out Australian tour in April 2024. Peter also shares insights into co-producing with Courtney Taylor-Taylor and crafting iconic riffs.

New music show March 2024

The Scars and Guitars new music show for March 2024 features Bruce Dickinson's "Rain on the Graves" from The Mandrake Project and Midnight's "F.O.A.L." from their album Hellish Expectations, released under Metal Blade Records. The Hellacopters offer "Alright Already Now (Revisited)" from Grande Rock Revisited. Marko Hietala's collaboration with Tarja in "Left On Mars" and Blackbriar's "Moonflower" featuring Marjana Semkina showcase the diversity within Nuclear Blast's catalogue.
Korpiklaani's "Oraakkelit" from Rankarumpu, The Devil Wears Prada's single "Ritual," and Child's punk-infused "Shitegeist" are all features. BAT and Witchgrinder contribute to rock and thrash. Sugar Horse's "NEW DEAD ELVIS" offers a doomgaze experience, while Hamferð and Enslaved explore death-doom and Viking death metal themes. 
Exodikon, Wormwitch, Sadistic Ritual, and a host of bands under the death metal and doom subgenres headline a rich array of songs from the extreme side of metal. The episode also covers electronic and 'core influences in metal, with CABAL's collaboration with JOHN CXNNOR, Gost's "Prophecy," and SWARM6IX's commentary on toxic relationships in "TOX(sick)."
AENIMUS, KEYGEN CHURCH, THE OMNIFIC, and If These Trees Could Talk represent prog and symphonic elements, showcasing the genre's evolving landscape. PALLBEARER's new one, "Where The Light Fades," from Mind Burns Alive, also features. 
Check out past episodes here: https://scarsandguitars.com/monthly-music-show/

Matt Harvey (Exhumed/ Gruesome)

Matt Harvey, renowned for his contributions to Exhumed and Gruesome, discusses his latest solo project, Toward The Cold Light. Matt shares the motivations driving his solo venture, reflecting on personal and musical development. We explore the thematic underpinnings and diverse influences shaping the album, highlighting its cinematic and soundtrack-like qualities. Exploring the transition from collaborative band dynamics to solo expression, Matt discusses the challenges and freedoms inherent in this evolution. Reflecting on his enduring impact on the metal scene, he provides valuable insights into his creative process, drawing comparisons to his work with Exhumed. Additionally, we share a hilarious anecdote from Exhumed's Brisbane performance and touch upon Matt's experience fronting Exodus, along with the potential continuation of that role.
 
https://mattharveymustbedestroyed.bandcamp.com/album/toward-the-cold-light