Switzerland’s global reputation for being neutral has been shattered by one band: Paleface Swiss. After a whirlwind year of sold-out tours and a breakout record in Cursed, the deathcore wrecking crew are set to make their return to Australia — this time as headliners.
Metal on Tap caught up with vocalist Marc “Zelli” Zellweger ahead of the September 2025 Australian headline tour with Nasty to talk about the band’s rise, their unexpected ballad success, and what fans can expect when the chaos lands down under.
“Honestly, it still feels surreal,” Zelli shares. “This is our very first headline tour in Australia, and we’re bringing Nasty — our closest friends. It’s the last shows of the year for us, so we’re ending 2025 with a bang.”
Much of Paleface Swiss’ momentum comes from their latest record Cursed, which stormed global charts earlier this year. Tracks like Please End Me (written in just three hours as a backup idea) and the soaring River of Sorrows have proven that the band isn’t afraid to evolve beyond brutal beatdowns.
“I always wanted to sing,” Zelli explains. “Clean vocals were more impressive to me growing up than screaming. River of Sorrows was supposed to come out way earlier, but I had to learn how to sing it properly. Now people not only accept it — they love it. And I love ending shows with that sing-along energy.”
When asked about influences, Zelli points to the expected heavyweights — Corey Taylor of Slipknot — but also a surprising favorite: Chad Kroeger of Nickelback. “Nickelback was the first rock band I ever listened to. I still love them.”
With Australia’s reputation for wild pits and passionate sing-alongs, fans should be ready for a set that blends intensity with heart. As Zelli promises: “Every show will be a positive experience — chaos in the pit, sing-alongs at the end, and good vibes all around.”
PALEFACE SWISS + NASTY
September 2025
Tuesday 2 – Perth, Magnet House
Wednesday 3 – Adelaide, Lion Arts
Friday 5 – Melbourne, Northcote Theatre
Sunday 7 – Sydney, Manning Bar
Tuesday 9 – Newcastle, King Street
Wednesday 10 – Brisbane, Princess Theatre
Tickets: https://thephoenix.au/
