Sky Knives Cut With Purpose on Sharpened Sound and New Release – Interview
In today’s heavy music scene, it’s easy for bands to get lost in the chaos. Loud riffs, aggressive breakdowns, and endless intensity can grab attention, but they don’t always leave a lasting impact. Sky Knives are different. From the moment they emerged, the band has focused on more than just volume, they’ve honed a sound that balances heaviness with melody, groove, and intention. Their music isn’t just meant to be heard; it’s meant to be felt, with every note and lyric carrying purpose.
The name Sky Knives captures that ethos perfectly: a striking image that is both beautiful and violent, chaotic yet precise. For the band, it initially symbolized raw intensity and unfiltered emotion. Over time, it’s come to represent clarity, focus, and the power of precision, qualities that now define their sound and creative process. As Sky Knives gear up for their latest release, the band is proving that heavy music can be both fierce and thoughtful, forceful yet deliberate, and that true impact comes from intent as much as from volume.
With this new chapter on the horizon, we sat down with Sky Knives to talk about their evolution, influences, creative philosophy, and what fans can expect from their upcoming release and video. From lyrical inspiration to the role of community in the scene, the band shares their honest perspective on what it takes to cut through the noise, and why intention matters more than ever.
Sky Knives Lineup:
James Skrtich – guitar, vocals (formerly of A Killers Confession)
Jonny Sculls – vocals (formerly of Pvsher)
Marc Coronado – drums, vocals (The Crowned)
Ilyn Nathaniel – bass (The Union Underground)
Joey Rodriguez – guitar (formerly of Allele)
Photo by Heather Skrtich
Rock News US Interview with Sky Knives:
Where did the name Sky Knives come from, and what does it represent to you now compared to when you first started?
“The name Sky Knives came from an image—something beautiful and violent at the same time. Knives falling from the sky felt like truth arriving fast, whether you’re ready for it or not. Early on, it represented chaos and intensity. Now, it feels more intentional. It’s about clarity cutting through noise. Precision. Growth. The same edge, but wielded with purpose.”
That sharpened perspective carries into the band’s sound. Sky Knives don’t rely on overindulgence or trend-hopping, instead focusing on balance and honesty.
For someone discovering Sky Knives for the first time, how would you describe the band’s sound and mindset in your own words?
“We’re heavy without being mindless, melodic without being soft. There’s groove, tension, and release—but always with intent. Mindset-wise, we’re not chasing trends. We’re chasing honesty. Every song has to feel lived-in, like it earned its existence.”
The band’s foundation was built on influences that valued emotional range as much as sonic impact, but just as importantly, on real-life experiences that shaped their creative voice.
What early influences (musical or otherwise) shaped the foundation of the band?
“Musically, it started with bands that weren’t afraid to blend aggression with emotion—artists who understood dynamics, not just volume. Outside of music, life itself shaped us: loss, resilience, humor in dark places, and the idea that art can be both a weapon and a refuge.”
Lyrically, Sky Knives operate in a space where storytelling serves truth rather than escape.
Lyrically, where do you tend to draw inspiration from: personal experience, observation, or storytelling?
“All three—but filtered through personal experience. Even when I’m telling a story, there’s truth buried in it. I don’t write fiction for escapism. I write it to say things directly sometimes would ruin.”
Unsurprisingly, certain themes surface repeatedly throughout the band’s work.
Are there themes you find yourselves returning to, intentionally or subconsciously?
“Transformation. Identity. Standing still versus moving forward. The tension between who you were and who you’re becoming. I don’t always plan those themes—they just show up when you’re being honest.”
Within the band, creative friction is seen as a strength rather than a setback.
Do disagreements in the writing process ever lead to better songs?
“Absolutely. Disagreements usually mean someone cares. As long as ego stays out of it, friction sharpens the work. Comfort doesn’t write great songs—commitment does.”
That mindset has allowed Sky Knives to evolve naturally, learning when to pull back instead of pushing harder.
How has your sound evolved as your skills and confidence have grown?
“We’ve learned restraint. Earlier on, it was about proving something. Now it’s about serving the song. Confidence lets you leave space, let parts breathe, and trust that less can hit harder.”
Live performance remains the ultimate test for every song the band writes.
Do you approach writing songs with live performance in mind?
“Always. A song has to survive the stage. If it doesn’t translate live—emotionally or physically—it goes back to the drawing board. The crowd is the final instrument.”
Sky Knives also emphasize the importance of community in a scene built on shared effort and mutual respect.
What role do relationships with other bands, promoters, and fans play in your growth?
“They’re everything. This scene only works if people show up for each other. Fans aren’t passive observers—they’re part of the ecosystem. When someone gives you their time, you don’t waste it.”
That same community-driven energy is what excites the band most about the current landscape.
Are there any bands right now that excite or inspire you within your scene?
“There’s a lot of hunger right now, which is exciting. Bands building things brick by brick, not chasing shortcuts. That energy feeds us more than any specific name.”
When progress feels slow, perspective keeps the band grounded.
How do you stay motivated when progress feels slow or uncertain?
“You zoom out. Progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s internal—better writing, tighter performances, clearer vision. If you keep showing up honestly, momentum follows eventually.”
Looking ahead, Sky Knives remain focused on sustainability rather than short-term gains.
What goals are you setting for Sky Knives over the next year?
“Release music we’re proud of, play shows that matter, and continue building something sustainable. Not just growth for growth’s sake—but meaningful steps forward.”
That focus culminates in an upcoming release the band views as a defining moment.
Please utilize this last spot to talk about your upcoming release and video.
“This upcoming release feels like a statement. It captures where we are right now—sharper, more focused, and more confident in our voice. The video leans into that energy visually: raw, intentional, and unpolished in the right ways. It’s not about spectacle—it’s about atmosphere and truth.”
With sharpened intent and a refined edge, Sky Knives continue carving their path forward, cutting through the noise with purpose and authenticity.
As Sky Knives move forward, it’s clear they aren’t interested in chasing quick wins or empty hype. Their focus remains on growth that matters; stronger songs, honest lyrics, and performances that connect on a deeper level. In a scene that often rewards immediacy, Sky Knives are playing the long game, sharpening their craft and trusting the process.
With a new release and video on the way, the band stands at a point where confidence meets clarity. The chaos that once defined them has evolved into control, without losing its edge. For listeners looking for heavy music with purpose; music that cuts through the noise instead of adding to it; Sky Knives are proving they’re a band worth paying attention to. Check out more about the band in the hyperlinks listed below.
https://www.facebook.com/people/SKY-knives/61575762362030