Metalcore project KAZARAN from vocalist CHA5M (Caiden Crafts of KAZARAN), has taken some time to have this discussion with us, about this project turned band, releasing a recent EP, even more music on the way, and much more!
1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.
I had a want to pursue metal music and utilize my desire to be a harsh vocalist. I was in an indie band at the time Paper Sunsets that I had been in since high school and things were becoming quite stagnant with members wanting and doing different things. This being in late 2020, I approached Travis Jones, a good friend of mine, we’ve been in the same friend group for a number of years and appreciated the same style of metal. He had some demos and unfinished songs left over from a previous band, so we got together, finished them off and added vocals to see how they would all come out and we were happy with how the final demos were. We had our Rory Amoy track drums for us and after the first few releases asked him if he’d like to be a third member and he agreed. So the band is made up of myself (vocals, lyrics) Travis (all guitars) and Rory (drums, backing vocals). At times that we’ve done live shows we’ve enlisted the assistance of friends and fellow heavy musos Matt Zipeto (guitar/bass), Ben Batty (bass) and Samuel Burns (guitar).
2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?
Originally the band was called KZRN with the same pronunciation. It was a shortened version of my professional wrestling name KAZARAN. Then as we were finalizing the tracks for this next EP, I decided to rename it with the full title.
3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?
The band is based out of Adelaide, South Australia. I am now based in London, UK with the others still residing there. The music scene is enjoyable. I was in it since I left high school with my previous band, and continued to be when KAZARAN started. It’s had its struggles but still continues to produce bands which is great. Some Adelaide bands that I would check out are Connections, FALTER, Ekosa, Holur, Larsen and First, We Fall.
4. How would you describe your style?
I like to think our style is that of classic metalcore with some modern elements. We enjoy the sound of early 2000s metalcore, bands such as Killswitch Engage, All That Remains Lamb of God and Arch Enemy, but also love the stylings of Parkway Drive, Bullet for My Valentine and Spiritbox.
5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?
We released our debut EP Lost Amongst the Living in 2022 which was a 5 track record each with a featured artist from Adelaide. We released Will You Survive, a horror themed track which was the first KAZARAN track without a featured artist, and Benevolence in 2023 with Adelaide based metalcore artist FALTER. The song makes an appearance in our upcoming EP, but is a remastered version for 2026.
6. Do you have any new music in the works?
Our next EP In Possession is out now, and it features Adelaide based artists FALTER & False Dawn. In Possession is heavier, darker, and more emotionally charged than our previous releases, the EP showcases our growth both musically and creatively. Blending crushing riffs with soaring melodic moments. In Possession balances raw intensity with a deeper sense of atmosphere and feeling.
7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?
Not currently.
8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?
We’re excited to continue writing and recording new music that we enjoy together.
9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?
Music is available on Bandcamp or on streaming services such as Spotify, Apple & Tidal.
10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?
I hope it gives them a nice nostalgia trip back to the early 2000s of metal and that the songs are relatable to them as well in a modern sense.
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