Dawn Of The Exultants And The Hunt For The Shepherd: Battlesnake's Chaotic and Bombastic Musical Journey
Battlesnake, a band of seven Australians who perform in reptilian cleric costumes, has surprised audiences with their chaotic and bombastic performances over the years. They have shared the stage with bands like Kiss, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Jane's Addiction, as well as headlined their own international tours. The band's keytar player, Billy O'Key, recalls the initial shock of audiences when they first see Battlesnake perform, only to be won over by their unique style and energy.
With the release of their third album, "Dawn Of The Exultants And The Hunt For The Shepherd," Battlesnake continues to captivate audiences with their riff-powered gospel that includes robot priests, epic battles, and even a story about Jesus Christ's long-lost twin. Known for their wild and unpredictable performances, Battlesnake often find themselves in the midst of manic mosh pits and unexpected encounters with enthusiastic fans, like an elderly woman spreading anti-vaccine information on stage during a show in Birmingham.
The band's penchant for chaos and spectacle has led to venues issuing warnings and specific documents to Battlesnake before their performances. From hanging from the ceiling to setting off fire alarms with CO2 canons, Battlesnake's shows are always full of surprises. Fans of the band have also embraced the theatrical aspect of their performances, showing up in wizard outfits, dragon costumes, and knight-style armor inspired by Battlesnake's universe.
Drawing inspiration from epic fantasy worlds like The Lord Of The Rings and Dune, Battlesnake infuses their music with complex storytelling and themes of good versus evil. They find the Bible to be a rich source of inspiration, particularly the book of Revelations with its tales of wicked creatures and epic battles. Their latest album, "Dawn Of The Exultants And The Hunt For The Shepherd," reflects the band's emotional turmoil during its recording, resulting in a frenzied and bombastic sound.
Despite holding down regular jobs, Battlesnake is determined to make music their full-time occupation and has grand plans for their future stage setups. Imagining a castle-like stage with drawbridges and horses, the band envisions a larger-than-life spectacle for their performances. "Dawn Of The Exultants And The Hunt For The Shepherd" is now available for fans to experience the wild and theatrical world of Battlesnake.