Interviews About Albums: Pyroclast - Fractured State (2026)

In this new interview, we sat down with the Scottish Heavy Metal band Pyroclast to ask questions about their album, "Fractured State".

1. What can you say about this new album?

I feel extremely proud of this album. After our last album, we knew we had set the bar pretty high in terms of songwriting. We brought ideas to rehearsals and moulded and nuanced the songs, giving them an extra dynamic edge. As a fan of melodic metal, I think I've had a hand in making the kind of album I'd love to listen to.

2. What is the meaning of the album name?

"Fractured State" comes from most of the songs referring to a struggle of some kind, be that emotional or physical. We can often find ourselves broken from things beyond our control.

3. Who is the composer of the album?

Myself, Mark Reid, and Chris Horne wrote the music for this album, with the other guys helping to arrange and suggest dynamics.

4. If you had to pick one song, which one would you pick?

It's a tough one, but I would probably say Erebus and Terror, the epic album closer. It tells the tale of the doomed Franklin Expedition to find the Northwest Passage in the mid-19th century. I think most of our songs are pretty evocative in terms of storytelling, and the music and the lyrics of this song weave a haunting narrative.

5. Is there a special message in this album? If there is, what is it?

I wouldn't be so bold as to try to deliver a message to anyone. The lyrics are open to interpretation, and people can decide what they mean for themselves.

6. Are there some lyrics that you'd love to share?

These lyrics come from one of the middle-eight sections within "Erebus and Terror", and Mark has said they're some of his favourite lyrics he's written.

Behold the desolation, a legacy of pride

The desert cares not for another king's demise

Nought but a memory, ambition’s echo dies

Their temples crowned in dust where fallen empires cry

Where once they carved dominion, nothing now shall stand

Their kingdoms fade as phantoms lost upon the land

The mighty fell to time’s inexorable hand

Their monuments lie broken shattered in the sand

7. Which inspirations have been important for this album? Like musically or friends, family, someone you'd love to thank specially?

I can only speak for myself, but influences on my writing for this album have been early In Flames, Judas Priest, Iced Earth, Roy Z, and Percy Shelley. I'd thank my bandmates for making this happen!

8. Something to add?

Just add ice.

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