The Nik Nocturnal Podcast

Pustulus Maximus, a member of the outrageous metal band GWAR, dives into hilariously bizarre tales of band life and their intergalactic origins. He shares amusing anecdotes about navigating Florida’s heat in elaborate costumes and encounters with local wildlife. The conversation flows from the absurdities of fame to the creative chaos of live performances. Pustulus also discusses their latest album, humorous conspiracies, and the importance of self-expression at concerts, blending comedy with thoughtful reflections on society.

Shane Told, the frontman of the post-hardcore band Silverstein, shares his journey of over two decades in music. He delves into the creative process behind their new album, 'Misery Made Me', inspired by pandemic life. Expect absurd tour tales, including a wild fan encounter, and insights on balancing authenticity with modern technology in music. Shane reflects on the evolution of vocal techniques, blending singing and screaming, and touches on the importance of integrity within the music industry.

Scene Queen, a rising star in the trap metal scene and TikTok sensation, dives into her unique journey from tour management to songwriting. She discusses the balance of creativity and industry pressure while reflecting on her rapid rise, including a hit track that garnered two million streams in just a week. The conversation also touches on the influence of social media in shaping her identity, the humorous complexities of the metal community, and the emerging 'bimbo core' trend that redefines artistry in today's music landscape.

Matt Heafy, the dynamic lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of Trivium and founder of Ibaraki, discusses exciting topics. He shares insights on the new Ibaraki album and his experiences with Twitch as a platform for creativity and financial support. They explore the balance of touring with personal joy and mental health, revealing culinary delights from Europe. Heafy emphasizes the evolution of metal, blending influences and cultural representation, while advocating for a more inclusive approach to the genre.

Eddie Berg, the talented violinist and vocalist of the Swedish metal band Imminence, joins to discuss the emotional intensity of metal and the unique role of violin in their sound. He shares insights on navigating the music landscape post-pandemic and the evolution of songwriting, emphasizing authenticity and emotional connection. Eddie also explores his band's journey from small-town beginnings to a distinctive melodic metal identity, while critiquing the formulaic nature of metalcore and advocating for originality in a saturated market.

In this engaging conversation, Mike Stringer, guitarist of the metal band Spiritbox, shares insights from his band's thrilling journey to success. He reflects on capturing creativity through voice memos and navigating the balance between originality and commercial demands. Stringer discusses the chaos of filming a music video, the emotional weight behind their hit 'Holy Roller,' and the collaborative dynamics of being in a band with his spouse. It's a candid look at the trials and triumphs of creating authentic music in a saturated industry.

Matt Heafy, the dynamic frontman of Trivium and Ibaraki, dives into the making of his band's new album and the profound effects of streaming on the music industry. He highlights the importance of authenticity in creativity, shaped by past experiences and personal expression. The discussion touches on the joy of music-making, evolving practices influenced by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the newfound relevance of community engagement on platforms like Twitch. Heafy also emphasizes redefining success in a rapidly changing music landscape.