About this interview
In a 2009 interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan’s Rock Show, Woe of Tyrants bassist Adam Kohler discussed the band’s Ohio roots, their signing with Metal Blade Records, and their relentless work ethic.
Kohler detailed the band’s early days, recalling how they practiced five to seven times a week before landing their first deal with Tribunal Records in 2007. Shortly after releasing Behold the Lion, Metal Blade Records took notice, offering them a contract just three months later.
The conversation also explored the struggles of breaking out from the Ohio metal scene. Kohler described Columbus as being dominated by radio rock bands like Seether, making it difficult for heavier acts to gain traction. As a result, Woe of Tyrants often played outside Columbus, opting for hometown shows in Chillicothe instead.
Discussing their decision to leave college to pursue music full-time, Kohler revealed that while he and guitarist Chris Burns were both in school, the band made an all-or-nothing commitment after a pivotal discussion on the way home from a show. Within a week, they all dropped out, dedicating themselves entirely to touring and writing music.
As the band toured more extensively, they faced the saturation of the metal scene due to the rise of the internet. Kohler lamented how generic bands could blow up overnight, while bands like Woe of Tyrants, who focused on musicianship, had to grind for years. Despite these frustrations, the band continued pushing forward, landing major tours with Cattle Decapitation and a Metal Blade showcase alongside Lamb of God and All That Remains.
The conversation also touched on the realities of the music industry. Kohler, who handled the band’s business and finances, admitted that smaller bands often struggled to get industry support unless they proved themselves first. Despite this, their album charted at #10 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Chart, and their music video for “Break the Fangs of the Wicked” hit 15,000 views in just a week.
Looking ahead, Woe of Tyrants had their sights set on bigger tours and hoped to transition from playing for 30-40 people to packing venues with 300-400 fans. Kohler remained committed to pushing as hard as possible, spending 8-10 months a year on the road, and solidifying the band’s place in the metal scene.