In this energetic episode of the podcast, Pipeman sits down with George and Connor from Change Persona at Bloodstock Festival. The conversation dives into nostalgia for old music formats, evolving music trends, live show experiences, band dynamics, and the importance of authenticity. The trio shares laughs, festival stories, strong opinions on beer, and their philosophy on keeping music fun and real.Main Topics Covered

• Nostalgia & Old Music Formats (00:46)
  • Cassette tapes, 8-tracks, and VHS tapes
  • The quirks (and struggles) of listening to and recording music in the past
• Music Consumption & Playlists (03:39)
  • How digital platforms and algorithms influence exposure to new music
  • The shift from immersive album listening to quick-track mentality
• Band Merch & Ticket Prices (04:56)
  • The rising cost of concert tickets and band merchandise
  • Personal rules for buying gig tickets (06:49)
• Festival Culture & Pit Etiquette (07:49)
  • Differences between US and UK festival crowds
  • Stories involving public urination, mosh pit mishaps, and community
  • Pit etiquette: taking care of each other, calling out dangerous behavior (36:13)
• Beer & Festival Beverages (09:48)
  • The ongoing Budweiser vs. craft/local beer debate at festivals
  • Anecdotes about beer-induced aggression and personal preferences
• Musical Evolution & Gatekeeping (21:25)
  • The struggle between evolving artistically and fan expectations
  • The “gatekeeper” mentality in rock and metal communities
  • Supporting bands through their genre shifts (e.g. Bring Me the Horizon, Metallica, Linkin Park, Rush, Iron Maiden)
• Authenticity in Writing & Performing (23:19)
  • Writing music for oneself vs. for the audience
  • The value of imperfection in live shows
  • Encouraging uniqueness and moving beyond formulaic creation
• Band Stories & Festival Experiences (34:35)
  • How Change Persona landed a spot at Bloodstock Festival
  • The supportive and family atmosphere at Bloodstock
  • Comparisons to other major festivals and their differences
• Music Scenes & Inclusivity (20:05)
  • The blending of punk, metal, and other alternative genres
  • Embracing what you love regardless of scene labels
• Upcoming Projects
  • Change Persona’s new EP and plans for release (41:11)
  • Importance of following their socials for updates

Key Discussions & Stories

• Pipeman, George, and Connor reminisce about the cassette tape era, rewinding tapes with pencils, and the charm and challenge of early music technology (00:46).
• Hilarious festival stories: adult diapers in line for barrier, Budweiser in Germany, public urination at Download, and the winds of dinosaur mosh pits (08:05; 37:58).
• Reflection on the impact of streaming playlists and the push-pull between song popularity and genuine fandom (03:57).
• Discussion of aggressive behavior in pits and how the culture of looking after each other is vital for a friendly scene (36:13).
• Insights into why bands must evolve musically, and the personal experience of shedding formulaic writing to create their best work yet (23:03; 25:13).
• Tales from the road: punk rock bowling in Las Vegas, playing Rebellion festival, and the punk/metal crossover (17:10).
• Philosophical takes on the importance of enjoying what you love and encouraging inclusivity within music subcultures (20:35).
• The inside story of Change Persona’s Bloodstock invitation, their “happy mistake,” and festival community (34:11).

Notable Quotes

• “The struggle was real.” – Pipeman (03:34)
• “If you're not best friends, you'll be like Perry Farrell and punching out your bandmate on stage.” – Pipeman (42:51)
• “Just enjoy what you enjoy and let people get on with it. Your life’s just that little bit less crap and hard.” – Connor (20:35)
• “You're never gonna please everybody… just please yourself and you'll attract your people.” – Pipeman (23:19)
• “If all these problems are so easy to solve, just don't listen to it.” – Connor (26:14)
• “It’s just a down-to-earth conversation, you know.” – Connor (44:20)
• “How do you say your name?” – Connor (44:35)
• “That'd be so brilliant. You gotta do that for the next album.” – Pipeman (46:18)
• “We started out as best friends in high school and we just done it because we all love music and we're all best friends.” – George (42:36)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Change Persona Band: “Follow the socials and find out!” (41:18)
• Bloodstock Festival: https://www.bloodstock.uk.com/
• Rebellion Festival: https://www.rebellionfestivals.com/
• Punk Rock Bowling: https://www.punkrockbowling.com/
• Band Merch Stores: Mention of Primark for affordable band apparel (05:02)

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In this episode, Pipeman sits down with members of the Cypriot metal band Ka'aper at the Bloodstock Festival. Together, they explore the band’s journey from Russia to Cyprus, their musical influences, experiences in the tight-knit Cyprus metal community, and their unique blend of atmospheric, melodic, and dark metal inspired by ancient Egyptian mythology.Main Topics Covered

• Ka'aper’s Origins: How the band members emigrated from Russia to Cyprus and discovered a thriving local metal scene.
• Experience at Bloodstock Festival: Reflections on performing and representing Cyprus at one of Europe's premier metal festivals.
• Musical Evolution and Influences: Personal stories about early inspiration, detours in artistic pursuits, and the bands and genres that shaped their sound.
• Band’s Ethos and Message: Why being authentic and enjoying the process is central to success.
• Community and Collaboration: Insights into the supportive metal scene on Cyprus and how it brings musicians together.
• How to Connect with Ka'aper: Ways fans can support and follow the band online.

Key Discussions and StoriesJourney to Cyprus & Metal Scene Integration

• The band members moved from Russia to Cyprus and were surprised by the vibrant and strong metal community they found 00:40.
• Some members have embraced Cyprus as home, even attaining Cypriot citizenship 01:37.

Competing and Performing at Bloodstock

• Ka'aper talked about their journey to the Bloodstock festival, including competing the previous year and missing the final spot to close friends, only to qualify the following year 01:51.
• “Speaking Whispers” were mentioned as friends and last year’s Cyprus representatives 02:13.
• Emphasis on the importance of being themselves and enjoying the festival experience 02:38.

Personal Journeys in Music

• Alex shared his early love for music, inspired by his sister introducing him to Queen and Aerosmith, and his circuitous path from drawing back to guitar and metal 03:09.
• Other members discussed starting on instruments like bass after discovering bands such as System of a Down, and guidance from musical family members 05:17, 06:40.

The Metal Community in Cyprus

• The local metal community is described as friendly and deeply interconnected through social chats and jam sessions 07:06.

Bloodstock Festival Reflections

• Performing at Bloodstock is described as a “dream come true” and an exciting, welcoming experience 05:55, 07:26.

What Sets Ka'aper Apart

• Ka'aper plays heavy atmospheric and melodic metal rooted in ancient Egyptian mythology and history 07:50.
• The band encourages listeners to enjoy music for its own sake and “safe fucking metal” 08:51.

Notable Quotes

• “Our friends told us to be ourselves, to enjoy the fest in general, and yeah, probably they are right.” — Alex 02:38
• “Since then…I want to perform, I want to play music.” — Alex on childhood aspirations 03:24
• “We play very heavy atmospheric and melodic metal based on ancient Egyptian mythology and history.” — Alex 07:52
• “Listen to good music, listen to metal. Safe fucking metal.” — Alex 08:51
• “You can say whatever the fuck you want.” — Pipeman 08:59

Resources and Links Mentioned

• Ka'aper on Instagram:
  Find and follow the band for updates and merch at Copper Official (Instagram handle shared at 08:42).
• Merchandise:
  Listeners are encouraged to check out and buy the band’s shirts 08:25.

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In this electrifying episode, Pipeman sits down with Cameron Johnson of the band Microtonal at Bloodstock, diving deep into thrash and death metal culture, band origins, and stories from the metal scene. The conversation spans from the nostalgia of handmade battle vests to Microtonal’s upcoming music, providing insight into the band's influences and the evolution of crossover thrash. Listeners get an inside look at Microtonal’s philosophy, their experience supporting DRI, and Cameron Johnson's roots in metal.Main Topics Covered

• Battle Vests & Metal Nostalgia
  • DIY patches and old-school creativity 00:25
  • Metal icons featured on the hosts' and guests' vests
• Microtonal’s Band Story & Influences
  • Formation and organic growth of the band less than three years ago 04:48
  • Blending thrash, death metal, prog, black metal, and more
  • Emphasis on "Irish death thrash" and each member’s unique influences
• The Evolution of Thrash & Metal Community
  • Stories about early thrash/punk tensions and crossover 03:11
  • The role of DRI, Suicidal Tendencies, and others in uniting scenes
• Supporting Legends & Festival Experiences
  • Microtonal supporting DRI in Belfast and Dublin 02:51
  • Attending and playing at Bloodstock festival 04:27
• Personal Metal Journeys
  • Cameron Johnson’s early introduction to Metallica via his father 08:07
  • Family musical influence and drummer legacy
  • Deep dive into favorite bands and the enduring appeal of metal
• Upcoming Releases & Shows
  • Teasers for new music by the end of the year 09:20
  • Plans for more UK gigs and desire to reach a wider audience

Key Discussions & StoriesMemories of Metal Battle Vests

• Pipeman recalls crafting his own battle vest in the '80s, hand-drawing band logos like Slayer and Exodus 00:29.
• Cameron Johnson shares that his girlfriend made his first battle jacket, sourcing rare patches from Mexico and Poland 02:08.

Crossover Thrash’s Historical Barriers

• Reflections on the early scene: metalheads and punks were once divided, but bands like DRI and Suicidal Tendencies helped break those barriers 03:14.

Microtonal’s Musical Identity

• Discussing members’ varied musical backgrounds, leading to a distinct blend of thrash, death, prog, black metal, and hardcore punk 05:40.

The Power of Musical Diversity

• Both agree that thrash’s magic lies in its diversity, with the "Big Four" each sounding unique due to their mix of influences 06:29.

Origin Story of a Metalhead

• Cameron Johnson recounts how seeing Metallica’s "One" video at age five set him on his path in metal 08:07.

Upcoming Music and Touring Ambitions

• Microtonal teases new music due by year’s end and announces plans for more gigs throughout the UK and beyond 09:20.

Notable Quotes

• "We call ourselves Irish death thrash... but every kind of member brings a slice of a different sort of subgenre to make up what we are." — Cameron Johnson 05:40
• "The Big Four of thrash were not anything alike... that's because you bring other elements in." — Pipeman 06:39
• "If you go in trying to replicate something, you’re just gonna end up sounding like something that’s already been." — Cameron Johnson 06:55
• "DRI is the reason. Once they started growing their hair out, Suicidal changed, COC changed, everybody started changing." — Pipeman 03:36
• "Literally from about 5 or 6, I was just dedicated to Metallica... Lars Ulrich's my favorite drummer." — Cameron Johnson 08:27

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Microtonal Socials & Music
  • Follow Microtonal on Instagram and other social media platforms
  • Bandcamp: Search for "Microtonal" to find releases and streaming links 09:34
• Bloodstock Festival
  • Discussion about performing and attending the legendary UK metal festival 04:27

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In this episode of the Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman interviews Ethan Shields and members of InScape at Bloodstock Festival. The conversation delves into their journey through the Metal 2 the Masses competition, the importance of community in the local music scene, changes within the band, and the significance of music in their lives. The band also shares their thoughts on social media, creativity, and how fans can connect and support them.Main Topics Covered

• Experience performing at Bloodstock and reaching the 25th anniversary edition 00:19
• InScape's journey through Metal 2 the Masses and band camaraderie 00:54
• Community among competing bands and building friendships 01:27
• The origins and evolution of InScape, including lineup changes 02:33
• Impact of new drummer Liam and the band’s musical progression 03:13
• The challenges and role of social media in today’s music landscape 03:54
• Personal moments that inspired members to pursue music 05:25
• The dedication and commitment required for lasting success in music 08:15
• Ways for fans to connect with and support InScape, including merch and social channels 09:53

Key Discussions & StoriesBloodstock and Metal 2 the Masses

• The band reflects on the surreal feeling of playing Bloodstock’s 25th anniversary 00:35.
• Metal 2 the Masses is celebrated as a supportive community rather than a cutthroat competition 01:17.

Band History & Lineup Changes

• InScape began over 14 years ago with Ethan Shields and his friend Luke, maintaining a long-lasting friendship 02:39.
• The recent addition of drummer Liam has brought fresh energy and tighter grooves, helping the band evolve musically and on social media 02:57, 03:54.

Community & Local Scene

• Members express a commitment to representing South Wales and supporting other bands, aiming to organize more gigs and boost their local music scene 01:43.

Roots in Music

• Band members share formative musical memories: discovering Linkin Park as teens, growing up listening to Iron Maiden and Dio, and inheriting musical inspiration from family 05:42, 06:28, 07:52.

The Role of Social Media

• The group discusses the challenges of modern music promotion, with praise for Liam’s aptitude in managing online presence 03:54.
• They express nostalgia for times when word-of-mouth mattered most 04:05.

Dedication and Practice

• Members stress the importance of daily practice and passion for music as keys to longevity and creative fulfillment 08:15.

Notable Quotes

• "It's not really competitive, even though it is. Everybody has respect for each other." — Pipeman 01:11
• "The recipe was there. I was the icing on the top." — Drummer Liam, on joining InScape 03:15
• "You guys got to be mates first and musicians second. Otherwise, how do you sit on a van or anything else together 24/7 without killing each other?" — Pipeman 06:15
• "If you're not practicing all the time, you kind of lose it, you know. Like anything in life, don't use it, you lose it." — Pipeman 09:17

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Website: inscapeofficial.com — For gig information, band photos, and merchandise 09:55
• Facebook: InScape Band 10:11
• Instagram: InScape Band 10:13
• TikTok: InScape Band 10:15
• Merch (Big Cartel): inscape.bigcartel.com — New merchandise, including Bloodstock exclusives 10:31

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In this episode, Pipeman interviews Ayo from Imperial Age at Bloodstock Festival. The conversation delves into the band's journey from Moscow to the UK, their genre-bending musical evolution, the significance of artistic freedom, and the realities of pursuing a music career independently. Ayo shares personal stories of risk, inspiration, and gratitude to fans, while also promoting an upcoming Kickstarter campaign for Imperial Age's new album.Main Topics Covered

• Journey from Russia to the UK and Bloodstock Festival
• The evolution and philosophy of Imperial Age's music
• Genre bending and rejecting musical labels
• The importance of loving the process in music and life
• DIY approach and the challenges of independence
• Details about the new album Kickstarter campaign
• Gratitude to fans and the metal community

Key Discussions & StoriesBloodstock Festival Debut

• Ayo describes moving to the UK after leaving Moscow due to the war against Ukraine, forming a new band lineup, and playing the main stage at Bloodstock as an "absolute dream" 00:39.
• Pipeman welcomes Imperial Age to the Bloodstock "metal family" and praises the festival's sense of community 01:05.

Band Philosophy and Musical Evolution

• Ayo explains Imperial Age's musical journey from symphonic power metal to a more genre-blending "powercore" sound, integrating breakdowns and extreme vocals 02:58.
• Both discuss the freedom modern artists have to break out of traditional genre boxes and how every song on an album can have a different vibe or genre 04:07.

Rejecting Labels and Embracing Uniqueness

• The conversation mocks the proliferation of hyper-specific subgenres in metal, emphasizing that what's most important is making music and having fun 05:08.
• Pipeman and Ayo agree that true artistry comes from experimentation and refusing to be boxed in 04:35.

Artist Motivation and Going All-In

• Ayo shares the turning point when music became a full-time pursuit, leaving behind tutoring and medical careers for the band's success, thanks to fan support 07:21.
• The challenges and sacrifices of an independent music career are candidly discussed, including the importance of burning bridges and never having a fallback plan 09:03.

The Role of Fun and Authenticity

• Both agree that fun and passion are crucial; a lack of enjoyment means audiences and competitors will notice 10:02.

New Album and Fan Support

• Ayo reveals details about Imperial Age's Kickstarter campaign for their forthcoming album, highlighting its genre-bending nature and the importance of fan pledges for independent artists 10:44.

Notable Quotes

• “When the war against Ukraine began, we said fuck it and left the country…we found a new band with a British and Italian lineup, and since then it's just been going up and up.” — Ayo 00:39
• "Our country is the UK now." — Ayo 01:51
• “Everybody today is genre bending…maybe you could call it something like powercore…to be honest, I don't even know how to call it.” — Ayo 02:58
• "Being an artist is all about experimentation and just playing what you feel, not because, oh, we have to go by this guideline of this subgenre." — Pipeman 03:42
• "I think that you should always do only the things which are fun for you." — Ayo 10:02
• "Never have plan Bs." — Ayo 09:03
• "We are running a Kickstarter campaign right now for our new album…kickstarter.imperialage.com. Every pledge is welcome." — Ayo 10:44

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Imperial Age Kickstarter campaign: kickstarter.imperialage.com 10:56
• Follow Imperial Age on all streaming platforms and social media: Search "Imperial Age"

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In this lively episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with Pete, the drummer of Meet Your Maker, and fellow band members at Bloodstock Festival. The conversation traverses the unpredictable UK weather, the intensity of live performance, the band's Christian metalcore mission, the importance of mental health, and the sense of community that music festivals inspire.Main Topics Covered

• UK Weather and Festival Challenges
  • Adapting to unpredictable weather during festivals (00:37)
  • Packing strategies for varying conditions
• Live Performance Energy
  • High-energy performances: what makes a great set (02:27)
  • The reciprocal relationship between band and audience
• Bloodstock Festival Experience
  • First time playing at Bloodstock for the band (03:40)
  • The welcoming, family-like atmosphere at the festival
• Meet Your Maker’s Musical Philosophy
  • Advocacy for mental health and positive messaging (05:45)
  • Incorporating Christian faith authentically into their music
• The Power and Therapy of the Mosh Pit
  • The mosh pit as a safe space for emotional release (07:44)
  • Humor and inclusivity in festival culture (dinosaurs, wizards, etc.)
• Building Community in Metal
  • Embracing conversation and friendship beyond fanhood (11:10)
  • Openness to meeting people from all backgrounds

Key Discussions & Stories

• Surviving the Weather
  • Pipeman and Pete share survival strategies for the UK's “four seasons in one hour,” highlighting the adaptability required at outdoor festivals (01:21).
• Debut Festival Stories
  • Dylan, the band’s guitarist and “media maker,” recounts how Bloodstock is not only the band’s but also his own first music festival experience (03:51).
• The Band’s Purpose
  • Meet Your Maker’s commitment to spreading positivity, addressing mental health challenges in their lyrics, and being an inclusive Christian metalcore band (06:08).
• Community Vibe at Bloodstock
  • The supportive nature of Bloodstock’s Metal to the Masses competition and the camaraderie among bands and fans (04:21).
• Therapy in Heavy Music
  • Musings on the mosh pit as therapy, breaking misconceptions about aggression in metal, and why it’s a supportive community outlet (07:28).
• Festival Fun
  • Anecdotes about competing against a “wizard band,” inflatable unicorns, and the lighthearted, inclusive fun that marks Bloodstock (08:17).
• Bridging Differences
  • Pete discusses how the band’s role is to spread love and connect with people from all communities rather than preach or convert (11:06).

Notable Quotes

• “If you're not giving it all you got, then you're not sweating.” – Pete (02:14)
• “It's a transfer of emotion… If you're up there fucking going nuts, we're gonna be down here going nuts.” – Pipeman (03:06)
• “We're not there to preach to people, we're just there to be part of the community and to love on people.” (06:20)
• “For us, the pit is a safe space. Totally safe space to be who you want to be, be authentic and raw, and get it all out there.” – Pete (07:46)
• “We're not here to make fans. We're here to make friends and build a community.” – Pete (11:10)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Bloodstock Open Air Festival
  • Bloodstock Festival Website
• Metal to the Masses Competition
  • Bloodstock Metal 2 the Masses
• Meet Your Maker
  • (No direct links mentioned during the interview)

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In this episode of the Podcast, Pipeman sits down with Cam and Kaz from Imperial Demonic at Bloodstock Festival. The conversation delves into the band’s journey from a solo project to a full DIY group, their evolution in sound, the realities of the current metal scene, and their excitement about performing at one of their biggest shows to date. The band also shares insights into their creative process, challenges of standing out in an oversaturated market, and how fans can connect and support them.Main Topics Covered

• First-time experiences at Bloodstock Festival (00:30)
• The sense of community at metal festivals (01:05)
• Imperial Demonic’s background and evolution (01:31)
• Transition from a solo/duo act to a full band (02:18)
• Writing, recording, and producing music DIY style (02:27)
• Diverse musical influences and artistic evolution (03:17)
• Reflections on genre labeling and artistic integrity (08:44)
• The challenges and realities of self-promotion and social media, especially TikTok (10:10)
• Merchandising, exclusivity, and direct fan support (09:22)

Key Discussions & StoriesBloodstock: A Milestone for Imperial Demonic

• Cam and Kaz share their excitement about playing Bloodstock for the first time.
• Discussion on the inclusive and friendly atmosphere at the festival (01:01), emphasizing the sense of metal community.

From One-Man Project to Five-Piece Band

• Cam: Evolution from a solo project to a collaborative band (01:45).
• Kaz: The first EP was Cam’s “child”; the new album is a collective effort (02:27).
• The benefits of blending influences and sharing creative responsibilities (03:17).

Musical Evolution and Influences

• Early influences: Dark Funeral, Dissection, Dimmu Borgir, Marduk, Belphegor, etc. (04:04).
• Striving for a unique sound with elements of black metal, death metal, and atmosphere (03:25).

The Nature of Black Metal and Community

• Reflection on the changing face of black metal, from its “scary” origins to today’s tight-knit, supportive community (05:33).
• Notable story: Pipe Man recounts a legendary backstage scuffle between Venom and Slayer (05:54).

DIY Ethic and Merchandising

• The challenges and rewards of handling all aspects of the band internally (02:03, 08:03).
• Merch is exclusive and in small batches—“once they’re gone, they’re gone” (09:22).
• Active on Instagram and have secured www.imperialedemonic.com (09:52).

The Reality of Promotion in Modern Times

• Difficulty standing out in today's oversaturated market (10:33).
• Mixed feelings about TikTok and viral culture; Imperial Demonic prefers authenticity over chasing trends (10:10).

Notable Quotes

• “There’s no outsiders here. We’re all fucking outsiders together.” — Pipeman (01:12)
• “It’s cool having a more varied sound... it’s going to give us wider appeal as well.” — Cam (03:49)
• “Honestly, as much as I absolutely love playing shows, I really don’t care for the entire, like, everything around it. I just want to be on stage, grab my instrument, play the show, go back to my studio, write more riffs, record." — Kaz (11:17)
• “Be true to yourself and play to your strengths.” — Cam (11:04)
• “If you’re not having fun doing this, you’re in the wrong business.” — Pipeman (11:37)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Official website: imperialedemonic.com (09:52)
• Instagram: Most active social media channel (10:03)
• TikTok: Some presence, but not a primary focus (10:10)
• Bandcamp: Temporarily closed for the day of the festival (09:28)
• Merch: Shirts and vinyl available in limited quantities at shows (09:33)

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The conversation focused on the experiences and culture of metal festivals across Europe, Denmark, and the UK, highlighting the sense of community, the uniqueness of each event, and the role of family and upbringing in entering the metal scene. The dialogue also explored the significance of sharing and supporting one another within and outside of music communities. Upcoming tour plans and the process behind band naming were also discussed.Main Topics Covered

• Origins and meaning behind the band name Neckbreaker
• The cultural attitude of Denmark and community values
• Experiences at Bloodstock and other European festivals
• Copenhagen’s metal scene and its family-oriented approach
• First influences and entrance into the metal world
• Comparisons between European and American festival cultures (including food)
• Upcoming music and tours for Neckbreaker
• Ways to connect and support the band

Key Discussions & StoriesOrigin of the Band Name

• One concept discussed was the history of "Neckbreaker," previously named "Nagelknækker" (Danish for Neckbreaker), and the decision to use an easier-to-pronounce English name 00:42.

Danish Culture & Community

• A key theme that emerged was the Danish outlook on sharing resources and community well-being, encapsulated by the sentiment: "Why should I have 2 cars and my neighbor have none? We believe we should share with our fellow countrymen" 01:48.

Festival Experiences

• The discussion explored unique festival experiences at Bloodstock, Copenhagen, Summer Breeze, Dynamo, and comparisons with US festivals.
• Several points were raised, including how festivals in Europe are often family-friendly and tailored to local culture, contrasting with the uniformity of American festivals 08:44.
• Highlights from festivals included unpredictable weather, the camaraderie of the Bloodstock community 03:06, and diverse food experiences at events like Wacken and Hellfest 10:10.

Path into Metal Music

• The story of discovering metal through family and friends was shared, describing influences ranging from AC/DC to Meshuggah and Arch Enemy, and the importance of attending concerts and building community 06:14.

Upcoming Events & Releases

• Upcoming performances at Summer Breeze, Dynamo Festival, and a European tour with Avatar were announced 07:25.
• Mention of working on a new album and previewing two new songs at the current event 11:51.

Notable Quotes

• “Why should I have 2 cars and my neighbor have none? We believe we should share with our fellow countrymen.” 01:48
• “Our band wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for our fathers to put us into heavier music.” 05:59
• “All of the festivals in Europe are very tailored to that country.” 08:56
• “The only thing about festivals, it's that food is expensive. Oh yeah, all the time.” 10:58

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Connect with Neckbreaker:
  • Instagram: @neckbreakerdeath (Neckbreaker with two K's and Breaker, then Death) 12:10
  • Facebook: Neckbreaker
  • Spotify: Neckbreaker
• Festivals Mentioned:
  • Bloodstock
  • Copenhagen
  • Summer Breeze
  • Dynamo Festival
  • Wacken Open Air
  • Hellfest

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In this episode of Podcast, Pipeman sits down at Bloodstock Festival with Alan and Noel from Following The Signs to discuss their musical journey, first UK performance, the unique community at Bloodstock, and the evolution of their sound. The conversation explores the importance of artistic freedom, live performance authenticity, and the camaraderie found within the metal scene.Main Topics Covered

• Following The Signs' first UK performance at Bloodstock
• The supportive and family-like atmosphere at Bloodstock
• Personal musical influences and the journey from childhood to metal
• The role of music as therapy and a means of connection
• Breaking genre boundaries and embracing musical diversity
• The realities and joys of live performance—including dealing with mistakes
• Mosh pit stories highlighting festival camaraderie and inclusivity

Key Discussions & StoriesBloodstock Festival Experience

• Alan and Noel describe arriving at Bloodstock and feeling immediately welcomed (00:31, 01:29).
• The supportive environment for artists and lack of stress thanks to helpful staff (01:29, 01:54).

Music as a Life Journey

• Alan traces his musical evolution from Eminem and Linkin Park to Avenged Sevenfold and metalcore (02:26).
• Noel shares his pivotal moment discovering Metallica, then transitioning to nu metal and developing a broad taste (02:45).

The Festival Spirit

• Humorous stories about camping in unpredictable weather (03:55), and sharing the lengths musicians go for their craft (04:28).
• Reflections on the communal, therapeutic power of music for artists and fans alike (04:46).

Mosh Pit Camaraderie

• Alan recounts the story of a festival-goer being saved from a mosh pit by someone in an Elmo costume (06:54).
• Discussion about the importance of expression, inclusivity, and fun in the pit—moshing with bananas and dinosaurs included (08:32).

Defying Genre Labels

• Both guests resist genre labels, describing their sound as "hectic in all the right ways" (09:24) and "heavy but melodic" (09:33).
• Debating the unhelpful nature of microgenres and advocating for musical freedom and experimentation (10:01).

Artistic Growth & Live Show Authenticity

• Bring Me the Horizon discussed as an influence, and the band's direction towards blending heavy, melodic, and synth elements (10:47).
• Pipeman and guests agree that live shows should be imperfect and distinct from studio recordings, celebrating the spontaneity of performance (14:13).

Notable Quotes

• “Pipeman: ‘The GPS doesn't do it, the signs do it.’” (00:36)
• “Alan: ‘It's all about the connection that you get... to have that effect on people.’” (04:47)
• “Noel: ‘It's weird to think as well, like, as humans we can just like make these sounds and connect, you know?’” (04:58)
• “Noel: ‘A painter doesn't just use one color.’” (12:50)
• “Pipeman: ‘Live shows shouldn't be perfect. And who the hell even notices either except you?’” (14:16)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Bloodstock Festival: Bloodstock Official Site (not mentioned directly, but contextually relevant)
• Following The Signs: (Band’s social/website not specified in the transcript)
• Bring Me the Horizon and Slipknot: Referenced as influences

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In this lively episode, Pipeman sits down with Joachim and members of Joakem, a progressive metal band from Cyprus, recorded live at Bloodstock Festival. The conversation explores the band’s musical philosophy, their journey through Metal to the Masses, and how blending genres and abandoning musical “boxes” sets them apart. The episode is rich in anecdotes about music education, stage presence, community building, and embracing diverse influences.Main Topics Covered

• Bloodstock Festival as a metal community and “family”
• Joakem’s unique approach to progressive metal and genre-blending
• The importance (and rejection) of genre labels and musical “boxes”
• Band members’ diverse musical backgrounds and side projects
• Personal stories of musical influences and eclectic taste
• The Metal to the Masses Cyprus experience: learning, networking, and building community
• Improving stage presence and evolving live performance
• New music and merchandise releases
• How to find and support Joakem online

Key Discussions & StoriesThe Bloodstock Experience

• Both Pipeman and Joakem highlight the festival’s close-knit, authentic metal community and welcoming atmosphere (01:01).
• “This one's true metal and such a community, and there's no assholes here. They're not allowed.” – Pipeman

Defining Joakem’s Sound & Rejecting Musical Boxes

• Joakem’s music is described as “a unique blend of genres,” rooted in progressive metal but with epic, catchy, and atmospheric elements (01:49).
• Both agree artists shouldn’t be boxed in by genre or formula: “There is no box. The box is only in your mind.” – Joakem (02:53)

Diverse Influences and Side Projects

• Members play or have played in crust punk, power metal, and thrash-death bands. Joachim mentions his involvement in genres ranging from punk to classical music (03:18, 06:34).
• The evolution of metal from classical roots and how eclectic tastes fuel creativity (07:08).

Musical Influences

• Favorite bands and inspirations: Dream Theater, Symphony X, Iron Maiden, Opeth, and others (05:32, 05:45, 09:53).
• Personal playlists include everything from Slayer to Tupac and classical – “it can be very upsetting for people to listen to,” Joakem jokes (06:06).

The Metal to the Masses Journey

• Joakem’s path from narrowly missing a win to refining their stagecraft and claiming victory in Cyprus (11:13).
• The positive impact of Metal to the Masses on the Cyprus metal scene, bringing together local and expatriate bands from different backgrounds (12:28).
• Emphasis on networking, mutual support, and community strengthening—where even those who don’t win still benefit (13:42).

Performance Evolution & Stage Presence

• Band improved after feedback: changed their setup to boost their frontman energy and improved visuals for the live show (14:25).
• Open-mindedness and willingness to accept critique are highlighted as keys to growth (15:42).

Band Name & Pronunciation

• “Joakem” is derived from the bandleader’s surname, adapted for ease of pronunciation (17:14).

Final Message & Invitation

• Listeners encouraged to check out the band online and catch their Bloodstock performance: “Come see us at 1:30 on the New Blood stage on Sunday, tomorrow. We're gonna have a good time. Come say hi. Can't wait.” (17:42)

Notable Quotes

• “There is no box. The box is only in your mind.” – Joakem (02:53)
• “I don't think you really appreciate music if you do [only listen to one genre].” – Pipeman (07:54)
• “The key to being a great musician is being able to listen and see the other perspective outside of you.” – Pipeman (15:51)
• “Even if only one band won last year, very, very deservedly so, everyone won in the sense that the community became stronger…” – Joakem (13:42)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Joakem Online:
  • Instagram: Search “Joakem Music”
  • Facebook: Search “Joakem Music”
  • Bandcamp: Search “Joakem”
  • Spelling clarification: J-O-A-K-E-M (16:56)
• Merchandise:
  • Merch for singles “Origins” and “Creatures of the Abyss” released (16:30).
  • Album #2 upcoming; two new singles released (16:35).

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-adventures-of-pipeman--941822/support.

Click Here to Subscribe for PERKS, BONUS Content & FREE GIVEWAYS!

Follow @pipemanradio on all socials & Pipeman Radio Requests & Info at www.linktr.ee/pipemanradio

Stream The Adventures of Pipeman daily & live Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays at 1PM ET on W4CY Radio & Talk 4 TV. 

Download, Rate & Review the Podcast at The Adventures of Pipeman, Pipeman Radio, Talk 4 Media, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & All Podcast Apps.