PRESS RELEASE:
This past Friday on The Zach Moonshine Show , fans were expecting an unholy night of extreme metal with the legendary Profanatica and rising death/black warriors Helpless Agony . While Profanatica was unfortunately a no-show (we’re still unsure what happened, and we sincerely apologize to fans), the night was far from ruined.
In fact, Ron Sowal of Helpless Agony delivered one of the most raw and honest interviews we've had in recent memory — and it couldn't have come at a better time, with the release of the band’s latest full-length album Belligerent Retribution dropping just days before on May 9th .
From One-Man Project to Live Assault Unit
Helpless Agony began as a one-man project , entirely driven by Ron’s creative vision and DIY ethos. In the interview, Ron walks us through how the band started in isolation — writing, recording, and programming drums solo — and how it's now transforming into a full live band , ready to take the chaos to the stage.
“I never thought I’d take it live, honestly,” Ron says. “But after hearing the feedback from the recordings and realizing what could be done with a full band on stage, I knew it had to happen.”
Zach and Ron discuss how the band's sound has evolved — from the early demos to the fully fleshed-out new record. Despite being recorded solo, Belligerent Retribution sounds like a full band assault, thanks in part to clever use of tools like EZDrummer , precision layering, and Ron’s ear for aggressive tone and tight production.
Belligerent Retribution: A Monument of Rage
The new album is a sonic juggernaut , blending death metal , black metal , and doom into a grim and punishing listen. Tracks like “Dethroned Reject” and “The Raven’s Call” showcase not only Ron’s intensity but his range — heavy chugging riffs, tortured vocals, and atmospheric layering collide into a cohesive wall of sound.
Zach praised the album’s production during the broadcast, pointing out how it “sounds like a full band in a pro studio,” even though the entire thing was created by Ron alone at Equinox/Preylude Studios .
“It’s all about being resourceful,” Ron explains. “Technology has made it possible to create this stuff at home, but you still need the right ears, the right influences, and a vision.”
A Nod to the Greats, and a Future of His Own
During the conversation, Ron opened up about the early influences that shaped his style — particularly the legendary Incantation , whose filthy riffs and apocalyptic atmosphere left a major impression on him as a teenager. That same vibe bleeds through Helpless Agony’s sound, but with its own unique personality.
“I was obsessed with Incantation. Still am. That mix of dread and heaviness just felt right. I want my music to make people feel that same crushing weight.”
Listen to the Full Interview Now
For those who missed the live broadcast, you can catch the full replay on Mixcloud or watch the video version right here. The conversation is packed with laughs, stories from the underground, behind-the-scenes production talk, and a whole lot of metal!
Track List:
Battle Of The Bands Winners (Top Three)
1 - Vyr Muk - Bitterness of Loss
2 - Virya - Seed Of Doubt
3 - Facing Mayhem - Don't See Me
The Zach Moonshine Intro
4 - Diabology - The Last of All Kings
5 - SHED THE SKIN - The Carnage Cast Shadows
6 - WRATH OF BELIAL - Dismantling Logos
7 - Kings Of Thrash - Lockdown
8 - REGURGITATION - Acid Enema
9 - Incantation - Profanation /Hell Awaits
10 - PROFANATICA - Wreathed in Dead Angels/Descent From The Cross/Unto Us He Is Born
11 - Pontifex - Night's Embrace
12 - NECROTION - SON OF DOG
13 - Monhell - Shadows of the Abbey
14 - Primal - Iron Age
15 - Dee Calhoun - A Last Cold Kiss
Helpless Agony - Interview featuring The Raven's Call/Dethroned Reject
16 - Kitahrah - Homesick
17 - JOE LA TRUITE - OCTOGONE 8000
18 - Paula Teles - Prólogo
19 - VELVETCUT - Eating Machine
20 - Against I - All hope is gone
21 - Illumina A.D. - Crystal Grave
22 - Lost Legacy NY - Front Line
23 - Thousand Mile Fall - Motive, The Reason For Everything
Streaming now on Mixcloud!
Also available on YouTube etc
