Torche has one of the most recognizable sounds in all of the metal world. While that description doesn't sound quite fit for a punk mag, Torche certainly draws a punk crowd, gives off a punk attitude, and has a punk-type aggression while still maintaining melodic sensibilities. Since their latest LP, Harmonicraft, was released in April, Torche has been touring non-stop, and their lead vocalist and guitarist Steve Brooks was kind enough to take some time to answer some questions I had for him on touring with, making records with, and kicking ass with Torche.

For those who are unfamiliar with Torche, how would you describe your band's sound?

I normally just say "Hard Rock."

How did you come up with that sound?

Probably came from a wide range of influences. It took a few years and records to figure out what worked and didn't for us in progression to our current sound.

What's the biggest difference between playing in Floor and playing in Torche?

Besides having different band members, Floor is the heavier band of the two, but also more limited in what it's capable of. I love them both the same, but feel more freedom to experiment with Torche.

What caused the switch from Hydra Head Records to Volcom Entertainment?

Same reason we jumped from Robotic Empire records to Hydra Head. Gotta keep moving forward with labels that can push us to new audiences. We're still very loyal and close with our previous labels, but Volcom is another step up.

What was it like touring with Corrosion Of Conformity?

Surreal. They're a band I grew up listening to. Super rad dudes too. Can't say enough great things about touring with them. We had a blast.

Who is your dream band to tour with?

I have too many to list .

One of the things I love about Torche is the album artwork on each record. Who's been behind the covers over the years?

Well, our 1st [self-titled] LP cover was done by our drummer Rick Smith and I. Inspired by this swirly wrapping paper I had and we went crazy with it. The In Return EP cover was done by John Baizley (Baroness). [The] Meanderthal LP was done by our old guitarist Juan Montoya and Aaron Turner (Isis). [The] Meanderthal demos EP cover was done by Rick Smith. [The] Chapter Ahead Being A Fake split EP with Boris cover [was done by] Atsuo (Boris) (Japanese version) and [the] US version [was] done by Aaron Turner. [The] Songs For Singles EP cover art was done by Rick Smith. [The] Torche / Part Chimp split EP cover was done by Trevor Claxton. [The] Harmonicraft LP cover was done by John Santos

What was it like playing Metallica's Orion festival?

It was rad and surreal. Seeing James Hetfield rocking out to us with a smile on his face was the highlight for me. You never think things like that would happen. Rob Trujillo introduced us as one of his favorite bands, which was very cool too. Other than that, we were treated great by the staff and had a blast. I hope they ask us again.

What's your favorite thing to do outside of playing music?

I'm really into movies and hanging with friends. I'm pretty mellow most of the time, kind of a homebody.

Do you ever see yourself writing a concept album for Torche?

Nah, I'm not a story teller.

What do you want people to get out of a Torche live performance?

I just want people to have a blast, bring in good vibes and us all to have a great experience that we can remember.

What's the craziest thing you've had happen during a show?

Nothing is crazy to us anymore. We're living like Spinal Tap.

What are things you would like to try doing in a live show that you haven't yet?

I'd love to pop out of a giant birthday cake and maybe fly through the crowd.

What's next for Torche?

We tour for the rest of the year, then start writing the next record.

Thank you Torche's latest LP Harmonicraft is available now on Volcom Entertainment.