We live… pic.twitter.com/YjOoQhD5pr

— Empire State Bastard (@ESB666_) March 26, 2023

Empire State Bastard, began by Neil and ex-Oceansize frontman Mike Vennart in 2023, cannot be further away from the music Neil makes with his other, highly successful band-Biffy Clyro. Described as extreme grindcore within the metal genre, Empire State Bastard also features legendary metal drummer Dave Lombardo and bassist Naomi McLeod as touring musicians. The band released their first single, “Harvest” in March with Neill stating that the music is an itch he’s been needing to scratch for some time now.

No stranger in recent times to embracing a more heavier sound not usually associated with Biffy Clyro, Neil provided guest vocals on Architects 2021 album For Those that Wish to Exist-belting out an aggressive turn on the song “Goliath”. Many fans were surprised at the performance, with Neil showing a side of his skill that was not obviously apparent. For Empire State Bastard, Neil and Vennart intentionally set out to produce something that is as different from Biffy Clyro as possible.

Speaking about the new project, Neil said, “we wanted to push that extremity and get ourselves into the right head space for it. I know I’ve been needing to make a record like this for a long time. This is where I’m almost trying to be provocative.” 

On the 2nd of June, Empire State Bastard released only their second single, “Stutter” which will feature on their debut album Rivers of Heresy. Vennart, the lead song writer for the band, stated, “I set about making the most fucking poisonous vile music I possibly could, just unabridged hatred in musical form.”

The band’s first two singles have featured artwork from Radio 1’s Rock Show host Daniel P Carter and the album is set to also be designed by Carter-giving the album art a decidedly surreal quality that is sure to match the tone of the music.

Simon Neil and Biffy Clyro have been a hugely successful, having released nine studio albums to date with six of them debuting in the top five album charts in the UK-making them one of Britain’s most successful artists in recent years.

Debuting the band live in March, Empire State Bastard have played only a handful of shows thus far but are gearing up for the festival season-appearances at Download and Hellfest among others. Find tickets here. The album, which is available for pre-order here, will be released on 1, September.

Empire State Bastard Live Shows:

07/06/2023 – Download Festival – Derby (Sold Out)
15/06/2023 – Brudenell Social Club – Leeds
15/06/2023 – Hellfest – Cholet, France
16/06/2023 – Mash – Cambridge
05/07/2023 – 2000Trees – Cheltenham
16/08/2023 – ArcTanGent – Compton Martin