In this episode of The Metal Maniacs Podcast, we sit down with Metzfire—a Grand Rapids-based hard rock/alt-metal powerhouse whose sound blends moody atmospheres with haunting melodies, crushing grooves, and deeply emotional lyricism.

Formerly known as The Orphan and Others, Metzfire is a band that channels personal struggle and historic tragedy into powerful sonic storytelling. We dive deep into their debut album “Coordinate Oblivion”, discuss their evolving lineup, talk gear, production, and the journey from their inception to opening for national acts like The Browning and Hail The Sun.

🔥 Highlights from the episode include:

Behind the scenes of recording “Coordinate Oblivion” at Raygun Recording Studio

Reflections on standout tracks like “To Drink an Ocean,” “Stoned Ape Theory,” and “Into the Unknown”

Johnny Whitney’s vocal style—ranging from haunting cleans to visceral screams

Their DIY writing process and how they create moody, genre-bending arrangements

The band’s unique chemistry as a 7-piece and their approach to live performance

What they're listening to, what’s next for 2025, and how they transform anxiety into art

🎵 About “Coordinate Oblivion” (2024)

This 8-track debut captures a range of sonic moods—from ethereal ambiance and post-grunge breakdowns to technical, emotionally charged alt-metal riffage. Recorded and produced by Chris Frankhauser (ONN, Glass God),

🎤 Current Lineup:

Johnny Whitney – Vocals (Kamilla, Johnny Logic)

Josh Barnaby & Mike Hafer – Guitars (The Veronica Speedwell, The Skyline Obscura)

Jonas Beel – Guitar (The Storied Life)

Mike McNally – Bass (Romance for Ransom)

Mike Nolen – Keys/Synth (Long After Midnight)

David Koetje – Drums (Until Forever)

⚙️ Topics Discussed:

Band formation and evolution

The importance of tone, gear, and unconventional tunings

How riffs become full songs

Balancing melody with aggression

Collaboration, songwriting dynamics, and what makes Metzfire click

Show experiences across Michigan

Touring aspirations and new material in the works

🔗 Metzfire Links:

🌐 Linktree-https://linktr.ee/metzfire

💿 Follow us-https://linktr.ee/metalmaniacsmi

📣 Whether you’re a fan of Sevendust, 12 Foot Ninja, Dead Poet Society, or Coheed and Cambria—you’ll want to hear what Metzfire is doing. Their genre-fluid, emotionally intense songs will hit you in the chest and leave you thinking.

💥 Don’t miss this powerful and inspiring conversation.

🎙️ Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your fix.

🔔 Like, comment, subscribe, and share with a fellow metalhead.