We sat down with Paradise Lost singer Nick Holmes to talk all about their brand-new album, Ascension and what it means to still be pushing boundaries after 17 albums.
From the origins of the band’s name, inspired by John Milton’s Paradise Lost, to Nick’s fascination with religion (despite being an atheist), we dig into the stories and ideas that keep driving one of the UK’s most influential heavy bands.
There’s also plenty of laughs and dark humour, including memories of touring South America with Ozzy Osbourne, the lasting impact of Draconian Times, and what it really takes to keep creating after nearly four decades. Nick also opens up about the meaning behind “Serpent on the Cross”, “Lay a Wreath Upon the World” and “Life Unknown”, and why the music still matters more than ever.
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Podcast Highlights
Across the podcast, the guys also discuss:
- New Album Ascension
- Thoughts on John Milton’s “Paradise Lost”
- Religious History and Personal Beliefs
- Interpreting Historical Religious Context
- Album Title Meaning: “Ascension”
- Writing “Lay a Wreath Upon the World”
- Love of Horror and Influence of Sabbath
- Touring with Ozzy in 1995
- Remembering Tomas Lindberg
- Paradise Lost and the Gothenburg Scene
- Touring Scandinavia & European Support
- 30 Years of Draconian Times
- Meaning of Final Track “Life Unknown”
- Upcoming Touring Plans for 2025
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