A7X One Shots

Metal Hammer: So, Johnny Christ, you guys just released a new album. How do you think people will react to The Stage?

JC: I think it'll be similar to how most of our other albums will be. A lot of people are gonna hate it, but a lot more are gonna love it. Our fans are always with us, waiting to see what we do. They know our style is always evolving.

Metal Hammer: How did the concept for The Stage happen?

JC: You know, we've always wanted to do a concept album. Originally, we were going to do that with Nightmare, but that was before Jimmy died. Hail to the King was going to be as well, but we turned it into more of a tribute. Really what happened was that Matt got really invested in space and AI research and said "hey guys, let's try this." We all went along with it, and Brooks came in with some crazy drums.

Metal Hammer: Speaking of Brooks, what's it like working with him?

JC: [laughs] Honestly, it's amazing. We've always loved Bad Religion. Jimmy looked up to two drummers... Mike Portnoy and Brooks Wackerman. And we've been fortunate enough to work with both those guys. Brooks just feels like the right fit which is why he has his own Deathbat.

Metal Hammer: That's great. The album sounds amazing with him on it. What's your favorite song off it?

JC: There's so many to chose from. I personally love our titular track. I think it's just eight minutes of insanity and fun. But I also really love Higher. That's a song a lot of people associate with Jimmy, but it's not about him. It's focused on space and travel.

Metal Hammer: You guys will be touring with Metallica this summer. How excited are you?

JC: You have to understand that we grew up listening to and imitating Metallica. The first time we opened for them was back in like 2006. Back then, it was fucking unreal. I honestly still think it's a dream. The fact that we get to open for Metallica all summer on their tour is just beyond words. They're amazing people and musicians, and we are always ready to learn from them.

Metal Hammer: Is there any place you're super excited to see on tour?

JC: We already hit up Europe earlier this year. I think we hit up some of my favorite places, but in the states, I'm excited to go to Texas. We're going to San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas. Texans are some pretty crazy people, and that state is fun to go to. You have to get a Whataburger when you're there.

Metal Hammer: I'm sorry a what a burger?

JC: [laughs] It's called Whataburger, but the way Texans say it, it sounds like water burger. It's a fast food restaurant, and it's freaking delicious.

Metal Hammer: I guess we're going on a side tangent for a minute. What's your go-to item from this Whataburger?

JC: Depends on my mood. I have to say I love a good honey butter chicken biscuit for breakfast. But if it's lunch or dinner, I get a patty melt with extra onions. It's just so tasty.

Metal Hammer: Alright, remember that folks. Well, Johnny, thank you for your time. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

JC: Thanks for having me. I just want to say that we're always honored that we still get to be in the scene and that our fans are still with us. We're excited to see what this year has in store for us, and we hope our fans are willing to go on this journey with us.

Notes

I don't know what this was, but it felt like a Johnny thing. Also, if y'all are ever in Texas GO EAT WHATABURGER!!!!