And Now The Band

EP342 Matt Young, Mike De Leon and Derek Engemann

After a ripping night of music and friendship, members of King Parrot and Soulfly sat down to have a chat.Youngy, Mike De Leon and Derek Engemann join me for a quick conversation about the show and the tour. Friendship on the road and what it means to be on the road with your friends. What's been the best night of tour so far? No, it wasn't Louisville.King Parrot are making some new fans on this run with Gwar and Soulfly. 6 weeks on the road with this rowdy bunch.What's in the works? no clueGo check out the tour when it comes to a town near you!kingparrot.net/tour

EP341 Witch Ripper Concept Albums, Collaboration & Through the Hourglass

Tom sits down with Curtis and Chad of Witch Ripper to break down their upcoming album Through the Hourglass, arriving April 10 via Magnetic Eye Records. The conversation dives deep into the band’s evolution—from its beginnings as Curtis’ solo project in 2012 to a fully collaborative unit today. With this new record, Witch Ripper leans heavily into a shared songwriting process, with Chad contributing more than ever before, helping expand the band’s melodic range and overall dynamic. Tom highlights the album’s immersive feel, and the band explains how Through the Hourglass was intentionally crafted as a concept-driven, front-to-back listening experience. Drawing inspiration from cinematic storytelling and graphic novels, they emphasize leaving space for interpretation rather than spelling everything out—creating a more engaging experience for listeners. Musically, the album represents a shift. Compared to The Flight After the Fall, the new material explores:darker tonalities and more minor-key structures, greater use of space in productionless reliance on constant rhythm guitar layering increased focus on vocals and drums The band also discusses the business side of heavy music, including the evolution from traditional label deals to modern independent models where bands retain ownership of masters and publishing—contrasting that with legacy acts like Metallica and Mastodon. On the road front, Witch Ripper outlines a packed schedule, including: a Seattle album release showa 16-day West Coast tour in late May additional regional dates through September They also discuss the realities of touring logistics, noting that an East Coast run isn’t feasible this year—but remains a goal for the future. The episode takes a personal turn as well, with stories about first concerts—from Michael Jackson to Rush—and how those early experiences shaped their connection to music. The conversation also touches on gear preferences, the role of the internet in modern musicianship, and the importance of community in heavy music. If you’re into concept albums, collaborative songwriting, and the realities of being a modern independent metal band, this episode offers a detailed look inside Witch Ripper’s world. #WitchRipper #HeavyMetal #ConceptAlbum #MetalPodcast #MagneticEyeRecords #UndergroundMetal #AndNowTheBand #MetalInterview #DIYMusic #NewMusic

EP340 Brady Deeprose of Conjurer on Touring the U.S., Streaming Reality & Band Survival

Brady Deeprose of Conjurer joins Tom for an in-depth conversation on what it really takes to build and sustain a band in today’s music industry. From navigating duplicate band names to planning U.S. tours and adapting to streaming-era realities, Brady breaks down the strategy behind Conjurer’s growth and success. Inside this episode: • the challenge of multiple bands sharing the same name (and attempted split releases) • how Conjurer evolved their promotion strategy for recent releases • why modern bands must actively “service” their music beyond just releasing it • the reality of streaming revenue vs real-world impact (tickets & merch) • how Spotify and digital platforms help underground bands reach global audiences • building successful U.S. tours and connecting with new fans • curating diverse tour lineups (including bands like Pains and Snooze) • balancing multiple careers in music, including tour management roles Brady also shares insight into working behind the scenes with artists like Northlane and Make Them Suffer, giving a rare perspective on both sides of the music industry. The conversation dives into how music discovery has changed—from record stores and press to algorithms and social media—and why bands today must adapt or risk being overlooked. They also discuss Conjurer’s upcoming U.S. headline tour, including a stop in Louisville, and how the band carefully curates live experiences to stand out in an oversaturated market. If you’re a musician, fan of underground metal, or interested in how bands actually survive in 2026, this episode provides a practical and honest look behind the scenes. 🎧 Listen now to hear how Conjurer is navigating the modern music landscape through strategy, authenticity, and relentless work ethic. #Conjurer #BradyDeeprose #HeavyMetal #MetalTour #MusicIndustry #DIYMusic #BandLife #StreamingMusic #AndNowTheBand

EP339 Michael Kiske on Helloween Reunion, Authenticity & AI’s Threat to Music

Michael Kiske of Helloween joins Tom for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolution of music, the importance of authenticity, and the future of creativity in the age of AI.Known for his iconic role in shaping power metal during his original run from 1986–1993, Kiske reflects on rejoining Helloween decades later and how the band has evolved while staying true to its core identity.Inside this episode:• Michael Kiske on returning to Helloween after decades away• how bands evolve without “selling out”• why authenticity matters more than perfection in music• leaving imperfections in recordings vs overproduced sound• the pressures of fame and lessons from artists like Kurt Cobain and Elvis Presley• the impact of AI on music and creative expression• concerns about technology replacing human originality• the importance of protecting younger generations from overexposure to techMichael also shares his perspective on how different genres rise and fall in popularity, while some—like heavy metal and rap—maintain long-term cultural relevance. The discussion touches on bands like Anthrax and Def Leppard, and what allows artists to sustain lasting connections with fans.Beyond music, the conversation explores deeper philosophical themes, including individuality, spirituality, and finding truth outside of organized systems.If you’re a fan of classic power metal, the legacy of Helloween, or thoughtful discussions on where music is headed, this episode delivers both insight and perspective.🎧 Listen now to hear Michael Kiske on staying authentic in an ever-changing music landscape.#Helloween#MichaelKiske#PowerMetal#HeavyMetal#MusicPodcast#MetalLegends#AIandMusic#Authenticity#AndNowTheBand

EP338 Tour Life, Merch & Metal Brotherhood — Sam Harman of Haunt Breaks It All Down

Sam Harman of Haunt joins Tom for a deep dive into touring life, the realities of the modern music industry, and what keeps underground metal alive in 2026. From long drives and tight budgets to unforgettable shows and lifelong friendships, Sam shares what it really takes to survive — and thrive — on the road. Inside this episode: • the reality of touring in today’s music economy • why merch sales are critical for bands (and how Haunt prices theirs to move) • the role of community in underground metal scenes • how touring builds real relationships across bands and cities • balancing ego, teamwork, and clearly defined band roles • managing stress and expectations while on the road • why CDs and tapes are still selling (especially in Europe) • the impact of venue closures and post-pandemic touring challenges Sam also talks about touring alongside bands like Savage Master and War Cloud, and how the heavy metal scene continues to grow through shared experiences and mutual support. The conversation explores how underground music creates a sense of belonging — something that extends far beyond just the music itself — and why younger fans are reconnecting with older styles, including a resurgence of 90s-inspired aesthetics. They also discuss upcoming tour stops across the U.S., including cities like Chicago, Nashville, and Louisville, plus future plans for East Coast, Florida, and European runs. If you’re into heavy metal, touring culture, or the behind-the-scenes reality of being in a working band, this episode delivers a raw and honest look at life on the road. 🎧 Listen now to hear how Haunt is building momentum through relentless touring, smart merch strategy, and a strong sense of community. #Haunt #HeavyMetal #MetalTour #UndergroundMetal #DIYMusic #BandLife #MusicPodcast #TourLife #AndNowTheBand