In this exclusive chat, I sat down with the one and only Mike D’Antonio, bassist and founding member of Killswitch Engage, to talk all things heavy—starting with their brand-new album This Consequence, dropping February 21, 2025! Mike takes us behind the scenes of the writing process, how the band works together creatively, and what makes this album stand out from their past work. He breaks down the themes, the sonic evolution, and the raw emotion that fuels This Consequence, making it a must-listen for fans old and new.
We also dive into what it’s like touring with the legendary Iron Maiden, reflecting on the experience of sharing the stage with such an iconic band. Mike shares some great insights into life on the road, the energy of massive festival crowds, and what it feels like to perform alongside one of metal’s biggest names. He even dishes on some behind-the-scenes moments from the tour, giving fans a glimpse into the camaraderie and chaos that come with sharing a bill with legends.
And because Mike is a killer graphic designer, we had to talk about AI-generated art—and let’s just say, he is not a fan. He doesn’t hold back on why AI is ruining creativity, how it’s affecting artists in the metal scene, and why human-made art will always have the edge. For Mike, it’s about passion, skill, and the imperfections that make art truly unique.
From deep dives into the music to some hilarious moments, this interview has it all. Whether it’s discussing Killswitch Engage’s creative process, road stories from touring with Maiden, or Mike’s unfiltered take on AI, this conversation is packed with energy, insight, and plenty of metal spirit. If you’re a Killswitch Engage fan, you don’t want to miss this!
This Consequence drops February 21, 2025 via Metal Blade Records.
