If you’re on the hunt for some fresh underground punk rock music, look no further than S.G.A.T.V. (Sick Guitars and Terror Visions). This six-piece band, led by the talented Severin Beerli, is making waves in the music scene with their catchy tunes, thought-provoking lyrics, and a style that seamlessly blends influences from heavy metal and classic punk. With their upcoming album set to release in August/September and an exciting tour on the horizon, S.G.A.T.V. is a band that demands your attention. Join us as we delve into their music, origins, and what sets them apart in this exclusive feature.

S.G.A.T.V. is a dynamic ensemble, featuring Severin Beerli on vocals, Jorge Oswald on backing vocals and keyboards, Hannes Bissegger on backing vocals and bass, Giuliano Iannarella on drums, Luca Harder on guitar and keyboards, and alternating between Andrew Müller and Leo Pedrocca on guitar. Each member brings their unique talent and passion to the mix creating the powerhouse that is S.G.A.T.V.

When Severin decided to bring S.G.A.T.V. to life on stage, he carefully chose individuals who were not only his closest friends but also those who supported him throughout the journey of creating and developing the project. With a desire to bring together musicians who hadn’t previously played together, Severin found a common bond among the band members who all came from the same area and shared a passion for music. Whether it’s years of friendship or chance encounters at concerts, the band members’ shared history and musical connection adding a special spark to their performances.

They might be a six-piece live band, but at its core, it is Severin Beerli’s solo project. Severin composes, plays, and records all the music himself. His songwriting process is an intriguing mix of spontaneity and experimentation. Rather than coming into the rehearsal room with preconceived melodies or lyrics, Severin prefers to let the songs evolve naturally. It all starts with a basic idea, and then the band collectively works towards that vision, often resulting in unexpected and exciting outcomes. From crafting the drum beat to riffing on the guitar or bass, adding layers of guitars, keyboard melodies, and vocals, Severin’s process is an organic journey that reflects his current interests and influences.

The band’s latest release, “Never Trust The Rich,” is a bold and energetic anthem that takes a direct stance against the exploitative nature of capitalism. Despite the serious subject matter, the song’s upbeat and accessible sound perfectly complements the video, which features footage from their European tour in Germany, Holland and Belgium. Filmed by Isabelle Samper Alturo, who also accompanied the band on the tour, the video captures the band’s electrifying live performances and their penchant for light-hearted antics. Edited by Jorge Oswald, the band’s keyboardist, who also mixed and mastered the single, the video encapsulates the essence of S.G.A.T.V. – rebellious, spirited, and unapologetically fun.

Watch the VIDEO PREMIERE of NEVER TRUST THE RICH

S.G.A.T.V.’s sound draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences. Severin’s love for the heavy metal classics of the early ’80s, such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Ozzy is evident in the band’s energetic guitar-driven sound. Equally cherished are the punk classics like Stooges, MC5, Ramones and Misfits, which bring a raw edge to their music. As a teenager, Severin also developed a taste for black metal, finding solace in the sounds of Bathory, Darkthrone, and Emperor. He also finds inspiration in contemporary bands like White Fence, Coneheads, Gee Tee, and Leipzig-based bands like Lassie and Ex White. This eclectic mix forms the foundation of S.G.A.T.V.’s unique and captivating sound.

With their highly anticipated album set to release in August/September, S.G.A.T.V. has an exciting tour lined up for October. They’ll be taking their infectious punk rock anthems to Germany, Holland, Scandinavia and back again. Before that, the band will be treating their Swiss fans to some cool shows too. As for the future, the band aims to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new facets of their music.

When talking about his hometown, Switzerland may be a small country, but it boasts a thriving music scene with an array of talented bands and ample performance opportunities. While S.G.A.T.V. comes from the small town of Frauenfeld, known for its stoner and prog rock scene, their reach extends beyond their walls. Winterthur, their current base, offers a diverse array of bands and an excellent local radio station that wholeheartedly supports the local music scene. The band cherishes the camaraderie and support from fellow musicians and the enthusiastic audiences they encounter throughout the country.

If you’re hungry for more music from Switzerland’s vibrant underground scene, Severin recommends checking out really cool bands such as Autobahns, Sun Cousto, Leopardo, No Me Coman, The Jimmys, Haile Selacid, Schade, Fomies, Augenwasser or Penkowski. These bands represent the diverse and exciting musical landscape that Switzerland has to offer.

S.G.A.T.V. has carved a niche for themselves in the underground punk rock scene, captivating audiences with their infectious melodies, rebellious spirit, and live shows. As they gear up to release their forthcoming album and embark on an exciting tour, it’s clear that Severin Beerli and his bandmates are on an unstoppable trajectory, ready to unleash punk rock anthems to the world. So, put on your leather jacket, lace up your boots, and get ready to join the S.G.A.T.V. revolution. The stage is set, and the punk rock spirit is alive and kicking!

Photo Copyright by Francisco Heubeck

Neus Ruiz – Heatwave HH