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Medieval Metal on the High Seas: An Interview with SUBWAY TO SALLY

By capitalchaostv on June 1, 2025 • ( 0 )

We had the chance to catch up with members of Subway to Sally, the long-running German folk metal band, while aboard 70000 Tons of Metal, for their fourth cruise performance. The conversation covered their musical roots, the medieval metal scene, and the unexpected challenges of performing on a boat.

How It All Started

Michael “Simon” Simon (guitar, vocals):
“The band is over 30 years old. My bandmate started it 32 years ago, I joined 20 years ago, and Ally’s been with us for nearly a decade now.”

Almut “Ally” Storch (violin):
“Nine years! Next year will be my 10-year anniversary with these guys.”

The band, hailing from Potsdam, Germany, is known for their unique blend of heavy metal, ancient German language, and medieval instruments like the hurdy-gurdy, lute, and of course, violin.

“We make pretty German music—lyrically and sonically. It’s folk-inspired, but heavy. And we love incorporating medieval instruments to keep that authentic vibe.”

Playing at Sea: The Cruise Show Life

This wasn’t Subway to Sally’s first time playing on a cruise ship.

“It’s our fourth time on this ship. We’ve also done the Wacken Cruise and the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise. So yeah, we’re used to rocking on water.”

But it’s not without challenges:

Ally: “The wind on the deck can be tough—especially for violin!”

Michael: “And gear is always a problem. This time, we lost our hurdy-gurdy flying in. It’s a huge part of our sound, so tonight’s show will be interesting.”

Since all the bands share rented equipment on board, every show has an element of the unknown.

“It feels like going back to our roots—sharing gear, figuring things out. It reminds us of our early days playing clubs.”

Musical Beginnings

Each member had a different spark that lit their passion for music.

Ally: “My mom made me learn an instrument, and I’m so glad she did. I’ve learned everything about life through playing violin.”

Michael: “My dad was a choir director and played about 10 instruments. When I was three, I saw a drummer on TV and instantly knew I wanted to be one.”

Simon: “When I was a kid, some friends gave us a VHS tape of Guns N’ Roses. I watched it until the tape wore out. Years later, I got to play a show with Slash and thank him in person. That was surreal.”

Strangest On-Stage Moments

Touring for decades comes with some weird stories.

Ally: “One time I got run over by a guy in a chicken costume mid-show. He stormed the stage and knocked everything over.”

Michael: “I hit myself in the eye with a drumstick during a show. They told me I might go blind because it was bleeding behind my eye. I passed out from the shock—but luckily, it turned out okay.”

What’s Next?

The band just released a new album titled “Postum” in December and is gearing up for a German tour.

“We’re with Napalm Records, one of the top metal labels in Europe. Recording for the next project starts in a few weeks.”

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s castle festivals, cruise ship sets, or sharing gear backstage, Subway to Sally remains one of the most unique voices in metal. Their commitment to blending heavy riffs with centuries-old instruments is as inspiring as their onstage energy.