Since bursting onto the scene with their 2009 self-titled debut EP, Gold Coast metal machine Azreal have been one of those bands whose reputation deservedly precedes them at every turn.
Through countless shows on their home turf through to an international tour supporting the mighty Devildriver, Azreal have always maintained their sense of adventure and musical aggression, most notably with their astonishing ru of seven appearances at the Gold Coast’s premiere music festival Wallapalooza.
On the cusp of yet another appearance, HEAVY sat down with the entire band – vocalist Luke Hosking, drummer Chris Dennis, guitarist Jimmy Glinster and bass player Scott Campbell to see how they are feeling about playing at what will be the biggest Wallapalooza yet.
Although not being on the initial line-up for the rescheduled event, Glinster is quick to point out Azreal is deservedly on the updated bill.
"Technically, we were on the line-up when it was due last September,” he corrected, “and then it got pushed back to November and we couldn't do it because of Chris' bucks party. As it turns out a couple of bands that were booked in dropped out, so..."
This year Wallapalooza moves from its usual home at the Wallaby Hotel to the larger confines of the Mudgeeraba showgrounds, a move the band agrees was inevitable and also warranted.
"It's a well organised festival,” Hosking shrugged. “It always has a good turnout, it's always cranking, it's always got good local bands and it's a good fun scene. Everyone has a wicked time so they come back. There's never been a Walla that hasn't smashed it. Not that we've been at anyway."
"Having done seven you can progressively see each year getting bigger and better and obviously this year bigger again," added Campbell.
In the full interview the band chats about their time slot, the local bands on the bill, playing with some of the biggest names in Australian music, what the band has been doing in the five years since their last single Beast, possible new music, the Gold Coast metal scene and more.