Andy Cichon is an accomplished Australian musician with an impressive career spanning decades. Currently, he serves as Billy Joel’s bassist, following a long tenure with Shania Twain’s band. In his early career, Andy co-wrote the massive hit “Suddenly,” which gained national attention as the soundtrack to the iconic 1987 TV wedding of Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan’s characters on Neighbours.

In Australia, Andy fronted Judge Mercy, a hard-hitting blues-metal band that opened for legendary acts such as Iron Maiden and AC/DC. He reflects on the reasons behind the band's disbandment and discusses the possibility of reissuing their debut album, Protocol So Holy, on vinyl or making it available on streaming platforms. Beyond Judge Mercy, Andy’s career highlights include collaborations with Icehouse and James Reyne and his iconic bass performance on Darryl Braithwaite’s hit “One Summer” from the Edge album.

Andy also shares memories of working with Pete Wells and Rose Tattoo, reflecting on the personal impact of those collaborations. From growing up in the suburbs of Adelaide to performing on some of the world’s biggest stages, Andy’s journey is a testament to talent and perseverance. In this episode, he opens up about the defining moments of his career and his insights into sustaining success in the ever-changing world of professional music.

https://www.facebook.com/andycichonbass/

https://www.instagram.com/cichonandy/

This inaugural episode of our series pays tribute to the profound influence of musicians who have redefined the musical landscape across diverse genres. It offers a deep dive into the evolution of the bass guitar, spotlighting the trailblazing artists who elevated it from a supporting role to a driving force in the development of funk, disco, and fusion as these styles branched out from their jazz origins.

We begin with Larry Graham, the father of slap bass, whose work on Sly and the Family Stone's "Thank You" and Graham Central Station’s "Hair" and "Now Do You Wanna Dance" defined funk’s rhythmic core. Moving into jazz fusion, we spotlight Stanley Clarke, whose innovative bass lines on "Lopsy Lu" and "School Days" demonstrated the instrument's melodic and harmonic possibilities.

The funk and disco world is represented by Bernard Edwards, whose legendary grooves on CHIC classics like "I Want Your Love" and "Dance, Dance, Dance" set a gold standard, alongside Nate Phillips of Pleasure, celebrated for his electrifying work on "Glide." Louis Johnson of The Brothers Johnson brought slap bass to new heights with tracks like "Get the Funk Out of My Face" and "Stomp!"

We also honour Abraham Laboriel, known for his sophisticated work on George Benson's "Give Me the Night," and Freddie Washington, whose iconic bassline drives Patrice Rushen's "Forget Me Nots." Mark King of Level 42 showcases the fusion of funk and pop with his intricate playing on "Love Games" and "Lessons in Love," while Ron Francois delivers melodic elegance in Eurogliders’ "Heaven."

The episode highlights the subtle genius of Nathan East, whose minimalist grooves in Daft Punk's "Lose Yourself to Dance" and Eurythmics' "Would I Lie to You?" exemplify restraint and precision. We then turn to the soulful power of Doug Pinnick from King's X on "Dogman" and the eccentric brilliance of Les Claypool, who reimagined Stanley Clarke’s "Silly Putty" with Primus.

Finally, we venture into extreme metal with Steve DiGiorgio, whose fretless mastery shines in Death’s "Nothing is Everything" and Control Denied’s "Breaking the Broken," and Tony Choy, whose jazz-inspired lines in Atheist’s "Mother Man" expanded the boundaries of technical death metal. We celebrate Sean Malone of Cynic for his breathtaking solo on "Textures" and remember the late Roger Patterson, whose aggressive style shaped Atheist’s early sound.

This series intentionally excludes titans like James Jamerson, Steve Harris, John Entwistle, Jack Bruce, John Paul Jones, and Jaco Pastorius, who already enjoy widespread acclaim. Instead, the spotlight underappreciated bassists from funk, jazz fusion, dance funk, disco, funk metal and extreme metal, whose artistry has influenced countless musicians, including myself. This episode is a tribute to their enduring contributions and a testament to the profound impact of the bass guitar on modern music. 

Astennu returns to the show to discuss the triumphant resurgence of Covenant. Alongside reflecting on Covenant’s relaunch, he opens up about the circumstances surrounding his departure from Dimmu Borgir, shares plans for a solo album and reveals what’s next for the legendary Lord Kaos. In this candid conversation, Astennu doesn’t hold back, shedding light on long-standing rumours and unveiling the truth behind narratives shaped by conjecture and misinformation. This episode isn’t for fanboys or those content to believe the noise - prepare for an unfiltered discussion.

Covenant is officially back in action, recently delivering a blistering Nexus Polaris-themed set at Eindhoven. Upcoming appearances include the Karmøygeddon Metal Festival, 70,000 Tons of Metal, and more. 

For bookings, contact Håkon Grav at Photograve Management: www.photograve.net.

Visit the Astennu Music Store for exclusive offerings:

Check out their Metal Archives page: Lord Kaos on Metal Archives.

Explore the band’s history and stay connected with their latest updates and releases here:

Sarah Jezebel Deva returns to discuss her experiences with the reformed Covenant and reflect on the band's reunion. She also discusses the development of her philosophies since her Cradle of Filth days, strategies for managing her music career alongside family responsibilities, her view on her legacy in extreme music, and balancing personal and band commitments. The conversation extends to what the future might hold. 

Sarah keeps her Facebook page up to date, so check it out: https://www.facebook.com/SarahJezebelDeva

Covenant: 

Also, check out Midvinterblot, her project with Heljarmadr, the lead singer of Dark Funeral: 

The December 2024 new music show features NECKBREAKKER from Within The Viscera, THE HALO EFFECT from March Of The Unheard, BATUSHKA with "WIERSZALIN III," and JINJER with "Green Serpent." HELLOWEEN performs "Forever And One (Neverland)" live alongside GAUPA, DAYS OF JUPITER, God Complex, LUNA KILLS, ELUVEITIE, BLACKBRIAR, and OCTOPLOID. ATHENA XIX, Amaranthe, and ABZY add synth and Middle Eastern metal. Power metal comes from ALL FOR METAL, DYNAZTY, Niviane, and Steel Forge and Exiled Hope. Metalcore is represented by MEMPHIS MAY FIRE and BLEED FROM WITHIN, black metal by BURIAL OATH, DECLINE OF THE I, Hellpriests, Serpent Sceptre, and Catharia. TIGGUO COBAUC, Horse Butcher, NECROTECH, HELEVORN, and various death metal bands like Boreal Grave, Klaïton, Slaughtersun, ABOLISHMENT OF FLESH, THIRTEEN GOATS, and Chuzo perform. BIND TORTURE KILL brings hardcore, Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship mixes anime with metal, Great American Ghost and Axioma offer industrial and apocalyptic sounds. OBSCURA, GRAVE DIGGER, Frankenbok, BRAINSTORM, GOTTHARD, LORDI, THE HELLACOPTERS, MARKO HIETALA, and Dellacoma cover thrash, hard rock, rock, and acoustic styles.

Mischa M and Cristian S from CHÜZO discuss their new EP, Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay.

We’ll talk about how cultural influences shape their sound, the themes behind the EP, and Mischa’s approach to developing her vocal style. They’ll share insights on balancing creative perspectives in an international lineup, navigating Montreal’s metal scene, and their experience working with producer Kevin Jardine.

Bandcamp - https://chuzomtl.bandcamp.com/album/m-t-m-d-maximum-threshold-minimum-decay

Digital (Spotify) - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/chzo/mtmd

EP Stream - https://youtu.be/jqCdfYwDev4

More Info: Instagram.com/chuzo.band | Facebook.com/chuzo.band

In this episode, Derek Davis from Babylon A.D. discusses the band’s new album Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day and the stories behind its deeply personal tracks like "Looking for a Heartbeat" and "I Will Never Break Again." He reflects on the spiritual journey that led to "Face of God". 

Derek shares insights on Babylon A.D.’s evolution since their late ‘80s debut, the band’s longevity, and the dynamic with long-time collaborators Ron Fresch and John Matthews. He revisits pivotal moments like signing with Clive Davis and breaking into the industry during the Sunset Strip’s heyday, including stories from the Arista Grammys afterparty and navigating the grunge shift of the early ‘90s.

Links to website and socials: 

https://babylonadband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Babylonadband/

https://www.instagram.com/babylonad_/

www.youtube.com/channel/UCpQVt2LWl21avPsyLstHJEA

open.spotify.com/artist/6sh4WKluS0LOsPdGPerKJ5

www.facebook.com/PerrisRecords/

www.perrisrecords.com

In this episode, Eddie Spaghetti of the Supersuckers talks about their upcoming tour and past work with Nashville Pussy. He discusses the "Sacrilicious Sounds" album and Paul Leary's role in its production and its significance in the band's history. Eddie recounts the band's beginnings in Tucson, their transition to Seattle, and how they fit into the grunge era. He shares the experience of stepping up as frontman after Eric Martin left, the band's pivot to alternative country with "Must’ve Been High," and insights from their Interscope days. Eddie also reveals how his battle with cancer affected his approach to music and life and reflects on Ron Heathman's legacy. Eddie shares his career highlights, advises emerging musicians, and shares his hope for plans for the Supersuckers.

HARDLINE MEDIA proudly presents the SUPERPUSSY TOUR - NASHVILLE PUSSY & THE SUPERSUCKERS on the one bill!

TICKETS & INFO: http://www.hardlinemedia.net

SUPERPUSSY TOUR DOWN UNDER Australian Tour Dates:

Chris Boltendahl of Grave Digger discusses his career spanning over four decades in heavy metal. The conversation addresses the band's longevity, the development of his vocal style, and the challenges of navigating lineup changes and shifts in the metal scene. He explains Grave Digger's method of addressing historical and controversial themes in their lyrics and outlines the creative process behind their latest album, Bone Collector. Chris examines the album's themes and the role of fan feedback in shaping the band's music. The discussion also includes Grave Digger's influence on newer generations of metal musicians, Chris’ plans for Grave Digger, and the principles guiding his creative work.

Visit GRAVE DIGGER Online

In this episode, Michael Kiske shares his spirituality, pathways to enlightenment and reflections on the state of humanity. Helloween’s new live album, Live At Budokan, is set for release on December 13, 2024. The launch of the album marks a perfect opportunity to explore profound and esoteric topics with one of heavy metal’s most iconic vocalists, transcending genre boundaries. As the voice behind the legendary Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I and Part II, Michael’s insights inspire anyone seeking a deeper understanding of spiritual growth. 

Note: A slight pause intact where Michael attends to something, as it was an ideal time to give the subject matter some breathing space.

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