Interviews: Crusaders

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Thrash Metal band Crusaders from the UK. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you plan it or come out just like that?

The name came about after sitting around with the members trying to think of what we should call ourselves. Obvioulsly as a metal band usually the name needs to be something more out there than the usual band name. We ended up choosing Crusaders as it felt like everyone in the band had previously been through some tough battles due to how life is. Crusaders felt like a coming together of people who had all fought but came out stronger, and it fitted the heavy metal narrative!

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

The main reason for playing metal was because of our love of fast aggressive 80s inspired heavy metal. Thrash metal has always had a place in all our hearts. It felt natural and true to ourselves to play this style of music, as it never needs to be forced.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

Since we are all Glasgow based, we all knew of each other as the heavy metal scene in Scotland is fairly tight. Playing at shows you get to speak to alot of people and see what bands are like. Jamie and Steven had previoulsy played in bands before together, while John played in a band that was of similar style. Neil came in as the lead guitar player as he had wanted to play thrash metal.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Jamie would tend to say that his favorite band is Metallica, as they have had a huge influence on him in terms of playing guitar and also singing. Steven is a big fan of Mastodon and being a bass player really enjoys the low-end guttural rumble that they have. Neil is a big fan of Pantera, particularly Dimebag Darrell as his guitar skills have really been a huge influence on his lead playing. John loves Havok, a modern thrash band that absolutely rips and has some serious drumming!

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Our inspiration to write songs comes from a variety of different influenes. While we are a metal band, a lot of our content is generally things that we enjoy, which can cover video games, TV series, or even books. We write songs about things that we think would be fun, but also with a metal edge. We also try to make the chorus' of our songs catchy enough that the crowd can latch onto them easily, and walk away from a gig still singing the songs.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig to date was on the 13 th September 2024 in Glasgow. It was a night that was put on to raise awareness of kidney failure. The oragniser of the gig has kidney failure and he wanted to bring some bands together to try and raise awareness of this.

7. Where would you like to act?

Our dream would be to play at Bloodstock Open Air festival, as our style of music would fit really well for what they try to do. Its difficult for bands to try and achieve great success as the system makes it hard. However we would strive to try and play some of the big festivals around Europe to try and spread the word of Crusaders!

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

We would love to play with thrash bands that are similar to us. A big inspiration for us is Evile, their fast attack sound really was something that we look to when we write songs. So hopefully one day we can share a stage with them!

9. Whom not?

We would be happy to play with any other bands, the real question here is, what bands are happy to play with us!

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

In terms of stage fright, we have found that Mr Jack Daniels can usually give us some good advice when you listen to him. Or not. Hes a finkle man.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

The bands that have given us a lot of inspiration include most of our influences, such as Evile, Havok, Metallica, Exodus, and all the classic thrash bands. Speed, attack, and riffs are basically what we are all about, with some low-end chug too.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

The oddest request we ever had from a fan was to sign the inside of their orange peel. It was certainly a talking point, but like the lads we are, we all did it!

13. What do you think of your fans?

I think that the fanbase is what makes and shapes a band. Without them, you have nothing, so its so great that people are willing to spend time, money and effort to be part of our Crusade!

14. What do you think of our site?

Metal websites that review new music is essential for people to find out about new tracks and new bands, which is always amazing. Metal is for everyone, and the fact their is a place to find new music is amazing, so kudos to Breathing The Core for doing what they do!

15. Something add?

We want to say thank you to Breathing The Core for reviewing our single and hopefully you guys like it, and hopefully see you on the road!!!