EXHORDER's Kyle Thomas Talks Future Plans Amid Label Buzz
In a no-holds-barred interview with Scott Davidson on Chicago's Rebel Radio, Kyle Thomas, the powerhouse vocalist and guitarist of thrash and groove pioneers EXHORDER, has unveiled intriguing insights regarding the band's future. Hot on the heels of their latest offering, "Defectum Omnium," released in March 2024 via Nuclear Blast Records, Thomas addressed the swirling rumors about their label situation that have caught the attention of metalheads worldwide.
The 56-year-old New Orleans native, also known for his work with doom metal titans TROUBLE, expressed his frustration with a misleading headline that suggested the band was label-less. “We actually have a very big label that’s been actively pursuing us,” he clarified. “But we’re in no rush; we’ve got the means to do this independently if we choose.” With multiple labels vying for their allegiance, EXHORDER is poised at a crossroads, maintaining artistic control while considering lucrative offers.
Reflecting on the band’s creative evolution, Thomas remarked on the significant shifts in their songwriting process since the early days. “I’m the only one left from the original lineup, so things are bound to change,” he noted, reminiscing about the band's transformation post-1992's "The Law." He emphasized that the band has always played by their own rules, defying strict genre classification. “We were never a 100% metal band or a punk band. We did what we wanted, and that’s the tradition we uphold,” he said, hinting at the diverse stylistic paths explored in their recent albums.
As a seasoned musician, Thomas confronts the challenge of finding inspiration as he ages. “I’m not that angry young man anymore,” he confessed. “I have to discover new motivations to create. The goal is to produce music that still feels like EXHORDER, even if it veers off the expected path.” With a discerning ear, the band has sifted through countless ideas, ensuring that only the strongest tracks make it onto future records.
Looking back on their reunion after a six-year hiatus, Thomas revealed that the decision was fueled by both unfinished business and fan demand. “We were approached by a management team that believed in us,” he recounted. “And here we are, nine years later, bigger than ever.” With the core lineup solidified around Thomas, bassist Jason VieBrooks, and guitarist Pat O'Brien, the trio shares a unified vision that’s propelling the band forward.
As EXHORDER navigates the tumultuous waters of the music industry, they remain committed to crafting music that resonates with their legacy while exploring fresh avenues. With a string of new material on the horizon, fans can expect a thrilling ride ahead.