We had the opportunity to talk with legendary drummer Mark Zonder (Warlord, A-Z, ex-Fates Warning) to discuss the emotional return of Warlord, the creative process behind A-Z’s latest album, and how he continues to push musical boundaries after decades in the metal scene.
Capital Chaos TV:
Warlord’s revival after Bill Tsamis’ passing was unexpected and deeply emotional for many fans. What was going through your mind when you decided to take part in this new chapter of the band?
Mark Zonder:
Well, considering it was Bill and I — we were Warlord. That’s just the truth. When he passed, it wasn’t a shock, but it was a moment of realization: “Okay, this is done.”
I didn’t want to jump back into anything. I needed time to grieve or just let it all sink in. Later on, when Giles came to me with the idea, I thought, “Let’s give it a shot.”
Bill always told me, “Get another guitar player and go out and play the music.” He had been sick for years, and even though we had opportunities to tour, I wouldn’t do it without him. But he wanted us to keep the music alive — it was never about his ego. He had one about the band, but not himself.
Capital Chaos TV:
It took time to process everything before moving forward?
Mark Zonder:
Exactly. I was half the band. If anyone was going to do it, it would be me.
Capital Chaos TV:
The new album The Lost Archangel blends both archival material and newly “Warlordized” versions of Lordian Guard songs. How did you approach drumming on these reimagined tracks while preserving Bill’s original spirit?
Mark Zonder:
Anything I do with Bill has that same vibe. I didn’t try to overdo it or make it “proggy.” That’s not Warlord’s sound. It was just natural — I’ve played his music for so long that it’s second nature.
We also stayed true in production. No drum sampling, no modern tricks. Just a real, organic sound.
Capital Chaos TV:
You’ve played in many legendary acts, but Warlord holds a unique place in metal history. How does it feel playing with Warlord in 2024 compared to your earlier experiences — or bands like Fates Warning?
Mark Zonder:
Well, it’s obviously different without Bill. But his spirit is in every song. When we play, I picture us back in the garage in 1980 in San Jose.
Warlord’s music is part of me. I was there from the start. With other bands, like Fates Warning, I came in later. With Warlord and A-Z, I’m much more invested creatively and emotionally.
Capital Chaos TV:
The band released free downloadable tracks tied to each 2024 festival date — that’s pretty unconventional. Do you see this kind of fan engagement as the future for metal bands?
Mark Zonder:
We’ve always done things differently. Back in the day, we made the Canons of Destruction video when no one else was doing that kind of promo.
This time, we did something for the fans — songs released for specific regions on the same day we performed there. It was personal. It was about giving something back.
Capital Chaos TV:
What was it like performing Warlord’s music again live — without Bill?
Mark Zonder:
It’s both a continuation and something new.
We’re playing the classics — 17 songs — to honor Bill and the legacy. Warlord didn’t tour much back in the day, so for a lot of people, this is their first time seeing us live.
The vibe onstage is great. The band plays the songs note-for-note, and everyone is amazing to be around. No negativity — just pure joy. We’ll see what happens next, maybe even writing new material.
Capital Chaos TV:
A-Z has been praised for its strong songwriting. How did the creative process on the new album differ from your debut?
Mark Zonder:
The first A-Z album started from my drum grooves. This time, Nick brought the initial ideas and we built everything together.
The approach was heavier and darker, but we never lost sight of the big hook. That’s the foundation of A-Z. It’s song-oriented music with choruses people can sing by the second time they hear them. That’s missing in music today.
Capital Chaos TV:
The new single “The Remedy” blends funk with hard rock. What inspired that stylistic direction?
Mark Zonder:
If you gave that riff to other drummers, it would’ve gone in all kinds of directions. What made it funky was the way I approached it.
That drum intro? You’re not going to hear that on most metal records. It’s a little technical, a little funky, and still fits perfectly within the song. That’s the trick — being creative but always serving the song.
Capital Chaos TV:
What’s the fan response been like — especially comparing longtime fans to new listeners?
Mark Zonder:
Nobody’s said they like the first album better — everyone sees it as a progression.
They say the choruses are even bigger on this one, which is a huge compliment. The record has more edge, the cover reflects that, and everything’s been very positive.
Now we’re just working on getting out on the road.
Capital Chaos TV:
Speaking of — what are the touring plans for A-Z and Warlord?
Mark Zonder:
Warlord has a few shows lined up this month — clubs and special dates.
But A-Z needs to get in front of bigger audiences. It’s tough out there, always has been, but we’ve got people working on it. One way or another, we’re going to make it happen.
This band has too much talent — it would be wrong to deprive fans of seeing it live.
Capital Chaos TV:
Thanks so much, Mark. Any final thoughts for the fans?
Mark Zonder:
Just thank you — for the time, for the support. Hopefully, we’ll see everybody out on the road soon.
Categories: Interviews, Music, Music Videos, Warlord
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