LAGERSTEIN

Alestorm just too damn subtle for you? We have good news…

Aussie pissheads Lagerstein are proof-positive that Alestorm aren’t the only band terrorising the high seas. Formed in Brisbane in 2010, Lagerstein spawned from a boredom with playing within the decidedly dour local black and death metal scenes. “Every time we played a gig we’d be the ones making sure we rocked up to the afterparty,” admits guitarist Neil ‘Rummy’ Rackers. “Everything was so serious when all we wanted was to do beer bongs onstage!”

Taking that party ethic and letting it carry them across the world to plaster massive grins on the faces of fans wherever they go – whether that be playing to massive crowds at Wacken, or entertaining guards from a tiny jail cell. “On our 2014 tour we ended up getting deported back to Australia because we didn’t have the right visas,” Rummy reveals. “We flew from Australia to Singapore, then to Dubai, then Heathrow and we ended up spending the night in a tiny little jail cell.”

“We started singing the songs while were in the cell and the guards were really sad about what had happened to us!” laughs vocalist Captain Gregaaarrr. “Especially when we had to fly straight back after getting the visas sorted!”

They might be completely ridiculous, but Lagerstein are passionate about what they do and see worth in the joy they bring to the world. “The fun we have onstage with the fans is paramount to what we do,” says drummer Rusty Timbers, sagely. “We don’t believe in anything less than putting 110% into what you do onstage – it always comes back.”

Prioritising the party above all, Lagerstein are an infectiously and endearingly positive force passionate about bringing happiness into the world. “Are we having fun, boys?” Rummy asks. “HELL YEAH!” is the roared response from the rest of the band down the phone line, reminding us that music isn’t always about saving the world or expressing emotion, but can also be about having a really, really good time with your mates.

25/7 is out now via Kegstand