
In 1999, backstage at the legendary Wacken Open Air festival, an emerging force in German heavy metal was about to make its mark. Metalium, a unique collaboration of German and American musicians, had just released their debut album Millennium Metal – Chapter One. In this candid conversation, band founder Lars Ratz (RIP) reveals the story behind the band’s formation, including how a chance encounter during the American Rock Life tour brought together talents like Chris Caffery (Savatage) and the powerful vocalist Henning Basse. The interview offers exclusive insights into the band’s bold decision to cover Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water,” dramatic lineup changes including the unexpected departure of drummer Mike Terrana, and the distinctive German-American sound that set Metalium apart from their contemporaries. Join us for this revealing backstage conversation that captures a pivotal moment in heavy metal history.
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