With “Crowned In Ash”, FIMBUL WINTER continue forging their own path through melodic Death Metal, balancing familiar roots with a modern, atmospheric edge. METAL KAOZ connected with Fredrik Andersson to discuss the new single, the pressure of moving beyond the shadow of AMON AMARTH, and the realities of being an independent artist. From ‘crappy’ phone hums becoming full songs to physical artwork, high standards, and the toll of the music industry, Fredrik reflects with honesty, humor, and determination.

With “Architects Of A New Weave”, EVERGREY return with a cinematic and uplifting chapter that proves darkness can still reach for the light. METAL KAOZ connected with keyboardist Rikard Zander to discuss the album’s creation, from keyboard-born ideas to fully-developed Heavy Metal songs. In this conversation, he reflects on why albums still matter in the Spotify era, the renewed importance of vinyl artwork, Mikael Stanne’s clean vocal contribution, and the accidental discovery of the band’s new guitarist.

With “Frisson Noir”, Tarja returns to Metal with what promises to be her heaviest and most personal statement yet. METAL KAOZ connected with the legendary singer to discuss the creation of the album, the meaning behind its title, and why music remains such a deeply personal experience. From leaving imperfections in recordings to finding hope in dark places, Tarja reflects on being her own worst critic, naming emotions, letting go, and how feeling different ultimately led her to find her musical destiny.

With “Solstice”, A.A. Williams continues to shape Heavy music into something deeply human, where every sound feels deliberate and every silence carries weight. METAL KAOZ connected with A.A. Williams to discuss love, loss, mental health, and why pretending everything is fine rarely helps. From the pain of songs tied to difficult memories to the importance of finding one small good thing on bad days, she reflects on why music should be truly listened to, not merely consumed.