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Level 42 frontman and legendary bassist/ vocalist Mark King reflects on the band's golden era, deep album cuts, and the creative dynamic with founding members Boon Gould and Phil Gould. Plus, Mark talks about working with Allan Holdsworth; he touches on the legacy of his iconic Status Graphite basses. Far too short, but plenty of gold for Mark King fans.  A special note to the show's dedicated listeners. I always said that if I got a chat with Mark King, I'd post it. So here it is! Unfortunately, the show isn't coming back, not yet anyway, but you never know what the future holds. God bless you all!    LEVEL 42 January 2027 Australian Tour Dates Monday 18 January - Astor Theatre, Perth - SOLD OUT Tuesday 19 January - Astor Theatre, Perth - 2nd Show Thursday 21 January - The Gov, Adelaide Friday 22 January - Palais Theatre, Melbourne Sunday 24 January - Enmore Theatre, Sydney Wednesday 27 January - Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane   Tickets On Sale Now: https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/level-42

**Final episode alert** In this conversation with Michael from Helloween, he discusses the band's 2025 album, Giants & Monsters. He offers his opinion on various episodes throughout the band's multi-decade career, including the albums Pink Bubbles Go Ape, Chameleon, and Dark Ride. So much more for you to wrap your ears around in a fitting finale for the show.  It's been a blast, and this episode is a fitting end to the show's 8 years on air. Thank you to all who have listened and supported the show! There is a special message for you at the end of this episode.  https://www.helloween.org/

Eric Jarrin, guitarist and co-producer of Montreal deathcore outfit Despised Icon, discusses their new album, Shadow Work, including lyrical themes and inspirations. Eric answers questions about political stability in Montreal and Canada, shares his thoughts on AI, and offers his view on the future of social media, including digital IDs and more. This is one of the final episodes, likely ever, for Scars and Guitars. Enjoy! https://despisedicon.com/

Battle Beast bassist and songwriter Eero Sipilä reflects on the band's seventh album, Steelbound, set for release on October 17, 2025, via Nuclear Blast. Eero also discusses influences, the likelihood of the band achieving success, and what he hopes the future holds.  Media & Pre-Order Pre-order Steelbound: Link Watch the video for “Angel of Midnight”: YouTube Listen to “Angel of Midnight”: Link Official Website: battlebeast.fi Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | X

This episode examines statements from Zoë M. Federoff, Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda, and Dani Filth, focusing on the acrimonious departure of Zoë and Marek from Cradle of Filth. Ben Williamson of Dusk Cult was invited to discuss his perspective.

Elliott Sansom shares insight into his tenure as the band's drummer and percussionist, including how he joined the group and an opportunity to reflect on what being in a group means to him. The Melbourne-based melodic death metal outfit, known for their progressive structures and immersive soundscapes, is gearing up for their east coast Australian tour in October 2025 to celebrate 20 years of live performances. Sansom joined Be'lakor in 2016, replacing Jimmy Vanden Broeck, and has since contributed to their acclaimed album, Coherence (2021), bringing years of experience from his other bands, Dusk Cult and Okera.  BE'LAKOR Australian Tour Dates - October 2025 With Persefone and Orpheus Omega Thursday, October 9th: Crowbar, Brisbane, QLD w/ Aeon Nexus Friday, October 10th: Factory Theatre, Sydney, NSW w/ Evocatus Saturday, October 11th: The Croxton, Melbourne, VIC w/ Naberus Tickets: On sale now Brisbane & Melbourne: www.oztix.com.au  Sydney: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com  Adelaide: www.moshtix.com.au

Letlive guitarist Jeff Sahyoun discusses the band’s Australian tour in September, marking their return after an eight-year hiatus. He reflects on navigating the challenges of the music industry, finding inspiration in everyday life, and the impact of artificial intelligence on music.  Letlive. Australian Tour Dates - September 2025 Friday, September 5th: The Triffid, Brisbane, QLD Saturday, September 6th: Manning Bar, Sydney, NSW Sunday, September 7th: Max Watts, Melbourne, VIC Tuesday, September 9th: Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide, SA Wednesday, September 10th: Magnet House, Perth, WA Tickets: Available at The Phoenix

Phil Campbell, guitarist of Motörhead, discusses the upcoming Australian tour with his band Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons in September. He shares stories from his life on the road with Motörhead, what he misses most about the late Lemmy Kilmister, and the unique experience of performing alongside his three sons, Todd, Tyla, and Dane, in his current band. The conversation dives into the dynamics of family collaboration, the legacy of Motörhead, and the setlist for the Australian shows, which will feature Motörhead classics Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons Australian Tour Dates - September 2025 Tuesday, September 16th: The Rosemount, Perth, WA Wednesday, September 17th: Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide, SA Friday, September 19th: Eatons Hill, Brisbane, QLD Saturday, September 20th: Manning Bar, Sydney, NSW Sunday, September 21st: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC Tickets and Information: The Phoenix

Steven Wilson: Discussing The Overview and Australian Tour in November 2025 Steven Wilson shares details about his Australian tour in November 2025, which serves as the catalyst for his appearance on the show. He discusses his latest album, The Overview, and how it integrates into the live show he is bringing to Australia. Wilson also talks about the band he is working with for the tour, and the conversation highlights some of his notable production and mixing work, including his contributions to Anathema. Additionally, he sheds light on what happened with the remixes of the Use Your Illusion album series, as well as other engaging topics. Steven Wilson Australian Tour Dates – November 2025 Wednesday, November 12th: Astor Theatre, Perth, WA Thursday, November 13th: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide, SA Saturday, November 15th: The Forum, Melbourne, VIC Sunday, November 16th: ICC Darling Harbour Theatre, Sydney, NSW Monday, November 17th: QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane, QLD Tickets and Information: Teamwrk Touring

In this comprehensive and engaging interview, Primal Fear bassist and co-founder Mat Sinner discusses the band’s upcoming album, Domination, set for release on September 5, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music. Sinner reflects on how Domination synthesises lessons from his extensive discography, spanning from Sinner’s debut album Wild ‘n’ Evil (1982) to the present day. He explores the evolution of his songwriting, production techniques, and the integration of new band members, while addressing the challenges faced during the album’s creation, including his recent health struggles. The conversation also covers a range of topics, offering insights into his multifaceted career. Connect with Primal Fear Official Website: primalfear.de Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | Reigning Phoenix Music

Uli Jon Roth discusses his Australian tour in September 2025 as part of his Pictures of Destiny world tour. He provides insights into the setlist, revealing songs he won’t be playing, and reflects on his profound influence on American thrash metal giants like Metallica and Megadeth. Roth also shares his perspective on issues affecting humanity and the Western hemisphere, alongside other fascinating topics. Known for his groundbreaking work with The Scorpions and his solo career, Roth will perform a “best of” Scorpions set alongside highlights from his extensive catalogue, showcasing his inimitable guitar style. Uli Jon Roth Australian Tour Dates - September 2025 Adelaide: Sept 4/ venue details available via Oztix Melbourne: Sept 5/ venue details available via Oztix Sydney: Sept 3/ venue details available via Moshtix All things Uli: https://ujr.info

The opportunity to chat with Gregor comes about due to the new album from Paradise Lost, titled Ascension. Among a four-decade career, there were plenty of topics to discuss, including Paradise Lost's classic albums Gothic and Draconian Times, the less embraced albums from the late 90s and early 2000s, as well as the band's collaboration with Fear Factory and Delirum alumni, Fhys Fulbur. Greg also touches on his projects, Strigoi and the electro-goth partnership with Paradise Lost vocalist Nick Holmes, Host. Lots of other insightful commentary as well!  https://paradiselost.co.uk/

Tomislav discusses his band Elusive God and their releases, including the new album, Ambis. It was important for Tomislav to feature on the show as he is from Croatia, and it was an opportunity to discuss family links, culture and the Croatian metal scene.  https://linktr.ee/elusive_god

Ben Weinman discusses The Dillinger Escape Plan’s Australian shows through August 2025, shares his thoughts on cover albums, and the idea of two vocalists, given that Dimitri Minakakis is back playing in the group after Greg Puciato’s long tenure with the band. Ben also discusses raising children, social media, and a range of other intriguing topics. THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN August 2025 Australian Tour Dates Sunday, August 10th: Metropolis Fremantle, Perth, WA Tuesday, August 12th: The Gov, Adelaide, SA Wednesday, August 13th: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC – SOLD OUT Thursday, August 14th: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne, VIC – New Show Saturday, August 16th: The Enmore, Sydney, NSW Sunday, August 17th: The Tivoli, Brisbane, QLD Tickets: On sale now at The Phoenix

Isaiah Mitchell, guitarist of the psychedelic rock powerhouse Earthless, shares his insights on songwriting, guitar playing and the creative process behind Earthless' mind-bending sound. Earthless 2025 Australian Tour Dates: Wednesday, 10th September – Crowbar, Brisbane Thursday, 11th September – Crowbar, Sydney Friday, 12th September – Corner Hotel, Melbourne Saturday, 13th September – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine Sunday, 14th September – Barwon Club, Geelong Tickets available now at: davidroywilliams.com/tours/earthless-2025/