Interview Under Fire Podcast

“Universal Tales”: A New Chapter for Xandria

The symphonic metal powerhouses Xandria have unveiled their latest work, Universal Tales, and we are thrilled to welcome their extraordinary frontwoman, Ambre Vourvahis, to today's podcast. Since joining the band in 2022, Ambre has stepped into a legacy spanning back to Xandria’s formation in 1994. Taking on the role of lead vocalist in a symphonic metal band—a genre where vocals serve as a cornerstone of the sound—is no small feat. But Ambre has risen to the challenge, firmly establishing her place in the metal world.

In our conversation, Ambre reflects on her journey over the past two years. From releasing the acclaimed full-length album The Wonders Still Awaiting in 2023 to captivating audiences at global music festivals, her debut with Xandria has been nothing short of remarkable. Now, with the release of the Universal Tales EP in 2024, the band offers a fitting encore to their recent successes while paving the way for what’s to come. It’s safe to say Xandria is in the strongest shape it has ever been.

Beyond the music, Ambre shares her love of cooking—hinting that a future as a chef could one day be on the table. This episode is packed with engaging topics and showcases the multi-faceted talents of one of metal's brightest rising stars.

Tune in now, and don’t forget to buy and stream Xandria’s Universal Tales, available worldwide via Napalm Records.

Stay connected with Xandria, visit: https://www.xandria.de/, https://www.facebook.com/xandriaofficial/, and https://www.instagram.com/xandria_official/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

Welcome to the 'Emotional Rodeo': A Conversation with Janet Devlin

We are thrilled to welcome back the gifted Irish singer-songwriter and author, Janet Devlin, for another insightful conversation. It’s been three years since our last chat, and during that time, Janet has continued to explore a rich tapestry of music genres, from folk and indie to Celtic and pop. Now, with her latest venture into country music, she seems to have found her true calling.

For Janet, country music is more than a genre—it’s a style she’s been drawn to since her youth. In this episode, she shares her journey to creating Emotional Rodeo, her newest album recorded in Nashville with acclaimed producers. Janet also discusses the challenges and triumphs of capturing the perfect album cover—one that not only reflects the music’s essence but stands out as one of the most memorable in recent years.

We dive deep into her influences, both musical and personal, that have shaped her artistic path. As Janet embraces this new chapter, Emotional Rodeo emerges as an album that defies expectations, blending heartfelt storytelling with her signature sound.

Don’t miss this candid conversation, and be sure to stream or purchase Emotional Rodeo, out now via OK! Good Records—the country album you didn’t know you needed.

Stay connected with Janet Devlin, visit: https://www.janetdevlin.com/, https://www.instagram.com/janetdevlinofficial/, and https://www.facebook.com/thejanetdevlin/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

The new album is here. It’s a true testament to the band they’ve become, and we're thrilled to welcome back frontman Sean Harmanis of Make Them Suffer. Our last conversation was during their North American tour in the spring; since then, they've taken on an intense schedule, from major summer festivals to headlining across Australia. Now, they’re rounding off a landmark year with the release of their self-titled fifth studio album, Make Them Suffer, and it may well be their finest yet.

The pandemic put MTS at a breaking point, with this album almost not seeing the light of day. But the arrival of Alex Reade as the newest band member brought a fresh spark, igniting immediate chemistry that breathed new life into the group. The renewed energy among these five musicians has forged a rare bond, creating music with a maturity and cohesion few can rival.

Throughout our discussion, Sean reflects on the journey and what has led the band to this pivotal moment. Ever humble, he’s quick to express gratitude for the opportunities the band has had, while also celebrating their hard-won successes. Make Them Suffer’s sound has evolved naturally, reaching new depths that Sean breaks down as we explore the trajectory leading to Make Them Suffer.

2024 is shaping up to be MTS’s year, and while it may seem like we’ve said it before, this band truly is only just beginning this exciting new chapter. Tune in to hear Sean’s take, and be sure to buy and stream Make Them Suffer, out November 8 via Sharptone Records.

Stay connected with Make Them Suffer, visit: https://www.instagram.com/makethemsuffer, https://www.facebook.com/makethemsufferau/, and https://sharptonerecords.co/collections/make-them-suffer

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

Yesterwynde, a word crafted to evoke the essence of time, history, memory, and a connection to past generations, is the latest title from symphonic metal legends Nightwish. Behind this inventive title is Troy Donockley, the band’s versatile multi-instrumentalist. Now with 10 albums and nearly two decades together, Nightwish raises the bar once again, and we had the opportunity to discuss Troy's remarkable journey with the band.

With contributions on Uilleann pipes, low whistles, acoustic and electric guitars, bouzouki, bodhrán, aerophone, and vocals, Troy’s role in shaping Nightwish's powerful sound is nothing short of monumental. His musical synergy with bandmates like Floor Jansen is undeniable, and this chemistry is fully realized in Yesterwynde.

In this conversation, we also dive into Troy’s passion for film, including a love for sci-fi—Alien fans, you’re in for a treat! Tune in now for an inside look, and don’t forget to buy and stream Nightwish’s latest release. Yesterwynde is available worldwide via Nuclear Blast Records.

Stay connected with Nightwish, visit: https://www.nightwish.com/, https://www.facebook.com/nightwish/, and https://www.instagram.com/nightwish/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

In today’s episode, we are excited to welcome back the talented Dutch singer-songwriter Charlotte Wessels. Since her last appearance in 2021, much has changed. With the release of two solo studio albums and growing recognition from fans worldwide, Charlotte has firmly established herself as a force in the jazz, classical, and hard rock genres. Her ability to seamlessly blend such diverse musical styles showcases her unmatched versatility and artistry.

We discuss her newfound passion, recent success, and the future, including the highly anticipated release of her third studio album, The Obsession. Charlotte also shares insights into her musical influences and the unwavering support of her devoted fanbase, which continues to fuel her journey. While she has collaborated with various acts in the past, Charlotte's current career trajectory is reaching new heights, and she remains both humble and grateful for her achievements.

With two decades in the industry, Charlotte’s sound continues to evolve—brutal, pure, and intimate, yet always maturing. This is an interview you won’t want to miss. Tune in and be sure to buy and stream The Obsession, available now worldwide via Napalm Records.

Stay connected with Charlotte, visit: https://charlottewessels.bandcamp.com/album/the-obsession, https://www.instagram.com/charlottewessels/ and https://www.facebook.com/OfficialCharlotteWessels/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

We are joined by Damon Tate, guitarist and founder of the Michigan-based metalcore band Of Virtue. The band has been gaining significant attention recently, and with their new album "Omen" receiving positive recognition, Damon shares the major personal and professional strides he has taken. Each step has led to significant improvements, fueled by his passion and dedication to his craft. We also reflect on the band's early days. Sixteen years may seem long, but when you're growing through life's stages and enjoying the journey, it can pass in the blink of an eye. A key milestone during this period is Damon's sobriety, which has almost paralleled the band's existence. As we celebrate this achievement, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for Of Virtue, as they approach the most significant phase of their creative career. Tune in now to our conversation with Damon, and don't forget to buy and stream their new album "Omen," available worldwide via Arising Empire.

Stay connected with Of Virtue, visit: https://ofvirtueband.com/, https://www.instagram.com/ofvirtue and https://www.facebook.com/ofvirtue

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

Time for some Canadian Power Metal. Juno Award-winning heavy metal band Unleash The Archers returns with their sixth studio album, "Phantoma," continuing the momentum from their 2020 release. We recently had the pleasure of welcoming back the band's prolific frontwoman, Brittney Slayes, to the podcast to discuss the past four eventful years for this rising group. From navigating the pandemic and adding new members to the lineup, to personal milestones, winning awards, and releasing one of 2024’s most anticipated heavy metal albums, Brittney and the band have embraced every opportunity with gratitude.

With a growing, passionate fanbase, the future looks increasingly bright for Unleash The Archers. In our conversation, Brittney also shares her musical and personal influences, highlighting the dynamic range and powerful presence that distinguish her in the metal scene. There's much more to discover in this episode.

Tune in now and be sure to buy and stream "Phantoma," the latest epic from Unleash The Archers, available worldwide via Napalm Records.

Stay connected with Unleash The Archers, visit: https://unleashthearchers.com/, https://www.instagram.com/unleashthearchers/, and https://www.facebook.com/UnleashTheArchers/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

Transience – the fleeting nature of existence, lasting only for a short time. For the German-based post-metal band Venues, this concept has profound meaning. Their latest album is a testament to their seamless transition into new chapters of their lives, both individually and collectively, a journey that is evident in their music. I had the pleasure of sitting down with members Lela, Robin, and Valentin to discuss "Transience" and the band's evolution over the past three years, both on and off the stage. Following the success of their previous album, "Solace," which firmly established Venues in the contemporary post-metal scene, the band has continued to push boundaries with "Transience," despite lineup changes. Their songwriting has never been more fluid, with each track brimming with significant passages and verses. As we kick off season 17, Venues remain driven by their passion for their craft. "Transience" is now available worldwide, showcasing Venues at their finest.

Stay connected with Venues visit: https://arising-empire.com/artists/venues, https://www.facebook.com/VENUESofficial/ and https://www.instagram.com/venuesofficial/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

Nestled in central Massachusetts, the post-hardcore band Wind Walkers has carved out a niche in the scene with their blend of heavy, intricate guitar work, melodic hooks, and poignant lyrics. While these elements may echo those of other bands in the genre, Wind Walkers have managed to carve out their own identity since forming in 2017, quickly setting themselves apart. Frontman Trevor Borg sat down with us recently to discuss the band's journey and their second studio album, "What If I Break?," which has already garnered half a million streams. Trevor also opens up about stepping into the role of frontman and balancing his life as a father, a role he embraces despite its challenges. Prior to this interview, Trevor made the bold decision to leave his job to focus more on his creative pursuits and family life. Tune in now and don't forget to check out "What If I Break?," available worldwide. 

Stay connected with Wind Walkers, visit: https://windwalkersofficial.com/, https://www.facebook.com/windwalkersofficial/ and https://www.instagram.com/windwalkersofficial/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/

Today, we are delighted to have frontwoman Britta Görtz from the German-based metal band Hiraes joining us. Britta, known for her work with other music acts like Chaos Rising and Critical Mess, founded Hiraes in the challenging year of 2020. Despite the difficulties, the chemistry she developed with her bandmates was immediate and profound. Following their signing with Napalm Records, Hiraes has released two albums, pushing the boundaries of melodic death metal. Now in their fifth year, Hiraes has garnered a dedicated fan base and has a packed tour schedule for 2024. We also delve into Britta's influences, both as an artist and as an individual, with her citing Mike Patton (Faith No More, Mr. Bungle) as a significant inspiration. With her impressive vocal range, Britta continues to grow artistically, aided by her work with Hiraes. Tune in now and make sure to listen to their new album, "Dormant," available worldwide via Napalm Records.

Stay connected with Hiraes, visit: https://www.hiraes.com/, https://www.facebook.com/hiraes.official/ and https://www.instagram.com/hiraes.official/

Stay connected with IUF, visit: https://interviewunderfire.com/