Join Pipeman for an engaging conversation with Chris from Savage Grace. The episode dives deep into the creation of Savage Grace’s latest album "Underworld," the evolution of authenticity in the music industry, stories from the classic metal and punk scenes, and the impact of self-censorship and cancel culture on modern artists. Through lively anecdotes and candid opinions, Chris reflects on personal experiences, the realities of being an unfiltered artist, and why being true to oneself is more crucial than ever.
Main Topics Covered
Introduction to Chris and Savage Grace’s new album
The importance of authenticity in music
Reflections on the first punk/metal crossover show
Memories from the ’80s metal and punk scenes
The inspiration and stories behind "Underworld"
Self-censorship and cancel culture in music today
Challenges faced by artists who speak their mind
Anecdotes about band loyalty and friendship
The evolution of Chris's guitar playing and blues influences
Releasing new music in today’s climate
Upcoming album release date and distribution information
Reactions and future plans around provocative new videos
Key Discussions & Stories
Stories from the Early Punk/Metal Days
Pipeman and Chris reminisce about a legendary crossover show featuring COC, Savage Grace, The Descendants, Possessed, and Archangel 00:59.
Sharing memories about band merchandise and the value of vintage shirts 17:15.
The New Album: "Underworld"
Chris explains "Underworld" is his most personal album, rooted in real-life experiences: “The whole album is basically about living under the radar, doing what you have to do to get by—prostitutes, strippers, porn stars, living at the harder side of life” 01:53.
Writing from lived experience versus fantasy or political themes 03:05.
Authenticity vs. Formula in Modern Music
Discussion on how many younger bands follow formulaic approaches, missing the raw authenticity that defined earlier generations 14:26.
Chris highlights the contrast with iconically uncompromising bands like Motorhead 15:52.
The Cost of Speaking Your Mind: Self-Censorship and Cancel Culture
Chris reflects on the increase in self-censorship, especially after a return to Europe: “You’ve already created your own damn prison” 04:34.
Real-world examples of artists losing gigs and being pressured to fire bandmates due to their political beliefs 10:13.
Chris recounts personal experiences with being "canceled" throughout his career, emphasizing that cancelation has, in fact, fueled his drive 11:52, 12:05.
The Power and Process of Blues Guitar
Chris details the depth that life experience brings to blues playing, contrasting it with technical speed 20:17: “To be a blues player, you have to have some life experience... to put your life into it, you have to have a life to put in it” 23:05 23:11.
Industry & Band Loyalty
Exploring the lack of loyalty and how friendships can dissolve under public pressure or scandal 34:00.
Chris offers insight: “The easiest way to get rid of someone in your life... loan them $100” 37:22.
Being “Canceled” as a Badge of Honor
Chris argues that being controversial or canceled can be a mark of artistic integrity and can often lead to greater exposure 27:59.
Notable Quotes
“The whole album is basically about living under the radar, doing what you have to do to get by… That’s what I know best, I’ve been doing it my whole life.” — Chris 01:53
“Music is the best therapy there is, and you’re not getting any therapy if you’re not being real to yourself.” — Pipeman 05:02
“What the hell happened to being a rebel?” — Chris 05:39
“If you’re worried about being canceled, you might as well think about selling shoes, working on the internet, or being a construction worker.” — Chris 28:52
“You have to feel the guitar and feel everything that you’re playing opposed to just playing it.” — Pipeman 22:35
“Anytime I hear about somebody getting canceled, I want to hear what they have to say.” — Chris 31:39
“Being canceled is the best thing that could ever happen to you. At least you’ll get a ton of press.” — Chris 27:19
Resources & Links
Savage Grace "Underworld" Album
Release Date: October 23rd
Label: Back on Black Records (UK)
Available worldwide: Japan, US, Canada, Mexico, Europe
Distribution link: Plastic Head Distribution (for UK/Europe/America)
Pre-orders available on major sites (including Amazon)
New live DVD out now
"Underworld" music videos dropping October 23rd (promised to be “extreme” and potentially controversial)
Special thanks to Chris for sharing his stories and insights, and for continuing to make authentic music. Stay tuned for the album drop and future updates following October 23rd!
