Warlord's 'Free Spirit Soar' Album, Alcatraz's Fall Tour with Girlschool, and a New Jack Starr Collaboration: Inside the Latest with Giles Lavery

Aug 31, 2024

Metal fans, rejoice! In a recent episode of Metal Mayhem ROC, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Giles Lavery, the mastermind behind some of the most exciting projects in the metal scene today. From the recently released Warlord album 'Free Spirit Soar' to Alcatraz’s upcoming fall tour with Girlschool, and even a new collaboration with Jack Starr, this interview is packed with insights and behind-the-scenes stories that every metalhead needs to hear.

**A Tribute to Bill Tsamis: Warlord's 'Free Spirit Soar'**

The new Warlord album, 'Free Spirit Soar,' is not just another release; it's a heartfelt tribute to the late Bill Tsamis, one of the founding members of the band. According to Lavery, this album has been in the making for years, with some tracks originating from ideas Tsamis had as far back as the 1980s. Lavery and the remaining band members took great care in completing these songs, ensuring they stayed true to Tsamis's vision. "We wanted to create something that Bill would be proud of," Lavery shared during the interview, emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail that went into the album's production.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Worms of the Earth," a song that has been part of the Warlord vault for decades. Lavery explained that Tsamis had always intended to finish this song, and it finally found its place on 'Free Spirit Soar.' Another notable track is "The Bell Tolls," originally titled "For Whom the Bell Tolls," but later renamed to avoid confusion with Metallica's iconic hit. Lavery discussed how these tracks, along with the rest of the album, are a perfect blend of old and new, offering fans a powerful tribute that is both nostalgic and fresh.

**Alcatraz’s Fall Tour with Girlschool: A Metal Event You Can't Miss**

But Warlord isn't the only thing keeping Lavery busy. Alcatraz, the legendary metal band he’s been working with, is gearing up for a fall tour with none other than Girlschool. This tour is set to hit several major cities, bringing together two of the most iconic names in heavy metal for an unforgettable live experience.

Lavery hinted at the setlist for the tour, promising a mix of classic Alcatraz tracks and new material that will surely please long-time fans and newcomers alike. He also spoke about the challenges of touring in the current climate, from logistics to ensuring that every performance lives up to the band's high standards. Despite these hurdles, Lavery expressed his excitement for the upcoming shows, emphasizing how important live performances are for connecting with fans.

**A New Collaboration with Jack Starr**

As if a new Warlord album and an Alcatraz tour weren’t enough, Lavery is also involved in a thrilling new project with guitarist Jack Starr. This collaboration, which Lavery describes as a blend of rock and heavy metal with a "New York swagger," is set to be a follow-up to Starr’s earlier work, 'Out of the Darkness.' The new album, tentatively titled 'Out of the Darkness II,' is still in the recording stages, but Lavery is confident it will be a standout release.

Lavery praised Starr's songwriting and shared some insights into the recording process, which he described as both challenging and rewarding. With tracks like "Hand of Doom" already generating buzz, this album is one that metal fans will want to keep an eye on.

**Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Giles Lavery?**

As the interview wrapped up, Lavery reflected on the busy year ahead. With 'Free Spirit Soar' hitting shelves, the Alcatraz tour kicking off soon, and the Jack Starr collaboration in the works, Lavery shows no signs of slowing down. He hinted at even more projects on the horizon, making it clear that he is fully committed to keeping the spirit of metal alive.

For fans of Warlord, Alcatraz, and Jack Starr, this interview is a must-listen. Lavery’s passion for the music and his dedication to honoring the legacy of metal legends like Bill Tsamis shine through in every word. Be sure to check out the full interview on Metal Mayhem ROC and stay tuned for more updates on these exciting projects.