Amb Pirate recently had the chance to chat with Alex Koehler, the energetic frontman of metalcore band Chelsea Grin, just before their packed Sacramento show. From lineup changes to upcoming tours, Alex shared insight into the band’s evolution and what fans can expect next.
First Headlining Tour and Life on the Road
Chelsea Grin is currently riding high on their first headlining tour, and Alex couldn’t be more excited.
“I’m fantastic. Just going to play a kickass show and hopefully not suck,” he laughed. “Sacramento’s always been a really good spot for us.”
The band has been touring across major cities, including a recent stop in San Diego, and is gearing up for a busy year ahead with Warped Tour and a South America tour alongside Asking Alexandria.
Despite the hectic schedule, Alex said the best part of touring is watching the band grow and seeing fans connect with their music:
“We put our hearts into this. Seeing kids rocking our shirts and losing it in the pit—it’s the best feeling.”
New EP and Lineup Changes: A Fresh Sound
Chelsea Grin recently parted ways with their lead guitarist and brought in Jason Richardson from Born of Osiris. Instead of replicating their old sound, the band embraced this change to experiment and expand their style.
“This EP is an opportunity to branch out. Each song is different, and we’ll see which ones the fans connect with the most.”
The EP features five tracks and is set to release just before Warped Tour. Alex and the band are eager to hear how fans respond to the new direction.
Influences, Side Projects, and Studio Work
While Chelsea Grin is known for their brutal metalcore sound, Alex shared that their musical inspirations stretch far beyond metal.
“We listen to everything from The Black Dahlia Murder to Deftones. This EP will show more of that diversity.”
Alex also revealed a side project he’s working on—a post-hardcore band that allows him to explore softer vocals and different musical styles.
The new EP was produced locally with a friend known as Bucket and will be mixed by renowned metal producer Jason Suecof.
Batman, Tour Names, and Dubstep Opinions
True to metal’s love of dark themes, Chelsea Grin’s band name comes from a grim urban slang term—a “Chelsea grin” is a violent cut across the mouth, similar to the Joker’s smile in Batman lore.
“I’m a huge Batman fan,” Alex said. “I dressed as Batman for five Halloweens in a row.”
He also explained the origin of their tour name, The Sick Tour:
“We’re a bunch of nerds who say ‘sick’ a lot. It just stuck.”
On the topic of dubstep and electronica, Alex said:
“I haven’t really given it much of a chance, but if it’s good, it’s good.”
Final Message to Fans
Before wrapping up, Alex had this to say to Chelsea Grin’s loyal followers:
“Check out our EP dropping before Warped Tour and catch us on the road. We can’t wait to rock with you.”
Catch Chelsea Grin on tour and stream The Headless Ritual wherever you get your music
Watch the full video interview below.
Interview by Amb Pirate | Editing by Capital Chaos TV
Categories: chelsea grin, Interviews
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