09/16/2026
In this energetic episode, Pipeman sits down with Bob from KingCrown to discuss the vibrant French metal scene, KingCrown’s latest album "Moonfall," and what sets the band apart in the crowded world of metal. The conversation spans the evolution of metal in France, the band's approach to music and instrumentation, creative freedom, and the importance of authenticity in both original works and covers.
Main Topics Covered
The rise and roots of French metal and its international reputation
Influence of legendary metal bands and formative musical experiences
Unique instrumentation in KingCrown and their creative process
The evolution of KingCrown’s sound across different albums
The importance of authenticity and creative freedom in music
The collaborative support system behind KingCrown’s success
The power and artistry of reinterpretation in cover songs
Promotion and insights on new album "Moonfall"
Key Discussions & Stories
The French Metal Scene
Discussion about France’s strong metal culture and its world-class festivals like Hellfest 00:35.
Bob describes France as having a diverse metal scene, not just limited to rock-n-roll, and highlights the growth of festivals big and small 01:11, 02:20.
Influences & Musical Discovery
Both speakers share stories about discovering iconic bands such as Metallica and Iron Maiden during their teenage years, which inspired their musical paths 06:01.
Bob reminisces about getting his first classical guitar at age seven and how all KingCrown members have similar stories of early exposure to music 06:16.
KingCrown’s Unique Sound
Bob emphasizes the band’s experimentation with different stringed instruments — mandolin, Turkish saz, Greek bouzouki, harp — to add flavor and richness to their music 08:35, 09:12.
There’s a focus on teamwork and each member bringing their own distinct strengths to the band's creative process 09:59.
Evolving Metal & Artistic Freedom
Discussion about the importance of unique, experimental sound in a genre that can often be formulaic 10:46, 11:30.
Bob explains the band’s philosophy: true artistry is rooted in creative freedom, not just musicianship 14:01.
Conversation about why evolving musically — rather than repeating oneself — is crucial for both listener and artist 13:13.
Album Evolution: "Nova Atlantis" vs. "Moonfall"
Detailed comparison between their last two albums, noting "Nova Atlantis"’s experimental and progressive tendencies vs. the bombastic, direct approach of "Moonfall" 12:21.
Pipeman and Bob discuss how each album represents different facets of the band’s identity and creative ambitions 13:41.
Cover Songs: Reinterpretation & Authenticity
Reflections on what makes a great cover and why artists should aim to bring something new to any reinterpretation 15:20, 16:52.
Anecdote about Dolly Parton’s version of "Stairway to Heaven" and the artistic respect between musicians 16:18.
Band Brotherhood & Support System
The strong bond and friendship among band members is highlighted as essential for creativity and perseverance 21:08.
Bob gives credit to managers, label partners, artists, and producers for helping KingCrown thrive 22:31, 23:46.
Notable Quotes
"Being an artist for me and my bandmates... is being free. If you're not free to create the music you want... I'm not sure you're really an artist." — Bob 14:01
"Metal is all about experimentation anyway, always was. So, like, there shouldn't be any rules or formulas. Just make something different that makes you stand out." — Pipeman 11:03
"Even a cover... you should bring something new, with a new sound, new interpretation, new mood to the song. That's the interest." — Bob 16:52
"We tried to bring to the songs everything that we consider to be the best things from the previous albums... we wanted it straight to the point, a lot of catchy choruses, a lot of catchy riffs as well." — Bob 18:25
Resources & Links Mentioned
KingCrown on Social Media: Search and follow KingCrown on all major platforms for updates and music.
New Album: Moonfall: Available now wherever you stream or purchase music 24:13.
Record Label: Rockshots Records — recognized by Pipeman for artist support and creative freedom 20:40.
Check out "Moonfall" and previous albums for a diverse metal experience
Thank you for tuning in to The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio!
