From the cracked skies of New Orleans’ ever-resilient heavy music scene emerges a new reckoning: Under Black Sky. Formed in 2023, the quartet has already carved out a reputation for immersive live shows, massive riffs, and a narrative that bleeds beyond music into myth. With their debut full-length Bad Blood set for release on October 24, 2025, and their single Firefly already lighting the way, the band is preparing to unleash a storm of sound, story, and shadow.
I recently sat down with drummer Beast, The Executioner — to talk about the heartbeat of Under Black Sky, his roots, the upcoming album, and what’s next for this rising force.
Animal, Execution, and the Spark Behind the Kit
Beast’s story begins not with blast beats or NOLA sludge, but with The Muppets. Inspired as a kid by the wild-eyed chaos of Animal, he was drawn to the drums early, captivated by both the freedom and the fury the instrument offered. That primal energy carried through as he developed his own persona, “The Executioner” — a stage identity that amplifies his presence behind the kit and feeds directly into the dark, immersive concept of Under Black Sky.
In our chat, Beast hinted at something deeper within the band’s DNA: a “secret order” woven into their lore. He kept his cards close, urging fans to follow their Facebook page to uncover more — a sly reminder that Under Black Sky isn’t just a band, but a narrative to step into.
The Drummer’s Role: Groove, Precision, and Fire
When it comes to his craft, Beast strikes a balance between groove and aggression. Rooted in the heavy pulse of New Orleans metal, he blends precision with swamp-soaked rhythms, always pushing for a heavier, more crushing sound.
Songwriting with guitarist Onyx, he focuses on building unique drum parts that elevate riffs without suffocating them. For Beast, the drums aren’t just timekeeping — they’re storytelling. His work on tracks like Firefly proves it, where the pulse itself feels alive, urgent, and restless.
Forged in Shadows: The Formation of Under Black Sky
The band’s lineup fell into place through connections and chemistry. Beast and bassist Jaxx had history, while Onyx and Krysis brought their own fire to the mix. Writing sessions in Jacksonville, Florida, shaped the skeleton of Bad Blood, with Krysis penning lyrics once the instrumental blueprints were set.
The result? A concept album designed to be experienced in order — a “codex,” as the band calls it, each track unlocking a sigil of a story tied to The Order Beneath. Fans stepping into Bad Blood aren’t just pressing play, they’re decoding a saga.
Bad Blood and the Undead Roadshow
October will be a massive month for Under Black Sky. Bad Blood drops October 24, just two days after they kick off The Undead Roadshow in San Antonio, TX. The tour will bring their immersive live experience to fans across the U.S., with support from Zombie King and Jay Wilder.
Beast told me he hopes his drumming on Bad Blood doesn’t just move heads — he wants it to inspire the next generation to pick up sticks and chase their own fire. It’s a fitting sentiment for a drummer who once sat wide-eyed in front of Animal, dreaming of unleashing chaos from behind a kit.
A Band, A Reckoning
Under Black Sky is just as much a band as it is an awakening — avatars of chaos and defiance, each member embodying a role:
- Krysis – The Prophet (vocals)
- Beast – The Executioner (drums)
- Onyx – The Seer (guitar)
- Jaxx – The Redeemer (bass)
Together, they conjure more than music. They invite you into a storm of sound, myth, and rebellion. Their message: “You are not alone. The purge has begun.”
Looking Ahead
With their mix of narrative weight, crushing grooves, and a live show that promises transformation as much as entertainment, Under Black Sky is not just a band to watch — they’re a reckoning to witness.
The purge begins October 22. Will you answer the call?
🔥 Firefly is out now on all platforms.
💀 Bad Blood arrives October 24, 2025.
🕸️ The Undead Roadshow kicks off October 22 in San Antonio, TX.
🌑 Official site: underblacksky.com
