The Nik Nocturnal Podcast

Courtney and Mike, the powerful duo behind Spiritbox, dive into their experiences returning home after a long tour. They share hilarious Tim Hortons anecdotes and reflect on their unique touring life as a married couple. The duo discusses their creative journey since 'Eternal Blue,' the art of modern metal production, and the evolution of sounds in the genre. With honesty, they explore music criticism's emotional toll on artists and emphasize the importance of community support in navigating online backlash, all while preparing for exciting new releases.

Spencer Charnas, the lead vocalist and songwriter of Ice Nine Kills, chats about the fusion of horror and metal music. He shares insights on the theatrical evolution of live performances, highlighting how high production values enhance the experience. Spencer humorously recounts the band’s reenactment of 'American Psycho' and discusses the creative process behind their horror-themed melodies. The conversation dives into the band's innovative storytelling and their dedication to experimenting with sounds that resonate with fans.

Nico Sallach, the energetic vocalist of the German metal band Electric Callboy, joins to share his exciting journey with the band. He talks about stepping into a new role, the electric atmosphere of live performances, and the creative challenges of following up their hits like 'Hyper Hyper.' Nico also dives into the fun of renting castles for videos, the art of acrobatic dance routines, and the ups and downs of pursuing Eurovision. Plus, they explore the evolution of metal music and the cool fusions happening in the genre!

In this engaging chat, Matt Shadows, the lead vocalist of heavy metal giants Avenged Sevenfold, shares deep insights into the evolution of their sound. The conversation takes a turn into the impact of AI on music production, with humorous anecdotes about their creative journeys. Shadows reflects on the balance between artistic integrity and audience expectations while discussing innovative vocal techniques. They also explore their love for gaming, specifically the Call of Duty series, and how nostalgia plays a role in crafting new music.

Danny, a member of the progressive metal band Voyager, dives into their thrilling experience at Eurovision 2023. He shares the excitement of blending heavy music with the colorful spectacle of Eurovision. The discussion touches on the band's evolution over twelve years, the unique challenges of live performances, and the unexpected crossover appeal of metal genres. Danny also explores the camaraderie among competing artists, reflecting on how Eurovision helps reshape metal's image and introduces heavier sounds to new audiences.

Michael, a member of the reunited metalcore band Woe Is Me, shares insights about their unexpected reunion, driven by fan enthusiasm. He reflects on nostalgic memories and the evolution of their sound. The conversation dives into their versatile styles, from heavy metal to polka, while emphasizing their independent approach to music. Michael discusses the importance of collaborative dynamics, creative freedom, and nurturing their loyal fanbase. With excitement for new music, they also tackle the evolving marketing landscape in today's digital age.

Discover the exhilarating world of an AI-driven metal band, blending heavy metal with fantasy elements. Explore the creative integrity behind original music and the diverse talents of its members. Dive into the challenges and innovations of using AI in songwriting while maintaining artistic authenticity. Learn how NFTs can enhance fan engagement in the evolving Metalverse. Hear about the band's enchanting inspirations from fantasy literature and their exciting future musical aspirations.

Ryo Kinoshita, known for his powerful vocals in Crystal Lake and now leading Knosis, joins his friend Yosh Morita, a member of Survive Said The Prophet. They explore the contrasting worlds of calm and energetic performances, share their transformative journeys in Japanese heavy music, and express the thrill of live shows. They discuss the creative process behind viral hits and the emotional landscape of transitioning between projects, emphasizing mental health and authenticity. The conversation also covers genre fusion in metalcore and the collaborative spirit that drives their music.

Tyler Shelton, a musician known for his work with Traders and Project Vengeance, shares insights about his musical journey and the formation of a supergroup. He discusses the evolution of trap metal, collaborations, and the significance of choosing the right musicians for new projects. Tyler also explores the challenges of navigating lineup changes and the impact of fan feedback. Alongside humor and camaraderie, they touch on innovative approaches in the metal scene and the thrill of merging different genres, highlighting the excitement for upcoming releases.

In this engaging discussion, Anders Friden, the legendary vocalist of In Flames, shares insights on the creative process during the pandemic, highlighting the shift to home studios and experimental sounds. He reflects on the evolution of metal music, emphasizing how fans have embraced diverse genres. Anders also touches on the upcoming album 'For Gone' and the balance between artistic growth and fan expectations. Additionally, he shares thoughts on the dynamic nature of the Swedish metal scene and the challenges of lineup changes within the band.