DIAMOND CAST:

Go behind the scenes with Diamond Black, the dark rock band fronted by Ben Christo (The Sisters of Mercy), as they pull back the curtain on their creative journey. From songwriting secrets and recording sessions to the music industry’s hidden truths, Diamond Cast is where heavy riffs meet deep conversations. Join Ben, Adam, and Vincent as they discuss the stories behind the music, their influences, the highs and lows of band life, and the anthems that guide them through the darkness. Featuring special guests, fan Q&As, and uncensored banter, this podcast is more than just music—it's a community. New episodes every week. Tune in, turn it up, and let Diamond Cast guide you.

This week on Diamond Cast, we somehow end up deep in the psychology of school pencil cases, lunchboxes, band logos scribbled on bags, alternative fashion rebellion and the bizarre social hierarchies of growing up in the UK. We also answer your questions about the future of Diamond Black, whether bands should keep going forever, artists growing older, Iron Maiden, Meat Loaf, AC/DC, and how modern rock music approaches mental health and emotional struggle differently than it used to. Plus: – Adam finds vintage STAR SCREAM merch in the garage – School tie rebellion explained – Why carrying a sports bag could ruin your social life – Through The Misery’s original title – The strange rules of being “cool” at school – And a Patreon bonus segment involving “The Devil’s Flaming Hoof”... ************************************************ Join the Diamond Black Community: Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com Listen to Diamond Black: Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black” Follow us: Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial X (Twitter) – @dmondblk ************************************************ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/ Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/ Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms ************************************************ Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat! Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support! DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store Ben - @benchristomusic Adam - @adamhartist Vincent - @vincentvdrums Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps Instagram - @diamondblackofficial Facebook - @diamondblackofficial X - @dmondblk Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

This week on Diamond Cast, we somehow end up deep in the psychology of school pencil cases, lunchboxes, band logos scribbled on bags, alternative fashion rebellion and the bizarre social hierarchies of growing up in the UK.

We also answer your questions about the future of Diamond Black, whether bands should keep going forever, artists growing older, Iron Maiden, Meat Loaf, AC/DC, and how modern rock music approaches mental health and emotional struggle differently than it used to.

Plus:
– Adam finds vintage STAR SCREAM merch in the garage
– School tie rebellion explained
– Why carrying a sports bag could ruin your social life
– Through The Misery’s original title
– The strange rules of being “cool” at school
– And a Patreon bonus segment involving “The Devil’s Flaming Hoof”...

************************************************

Join the Diamond Black Community:

Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon:
Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial

YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel
Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store

Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com

Listen to Diamond Black:
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG
Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black”

Follow us:
Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial
X (Twitter) – @dmondblk

************************************************

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial
Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ

Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/
Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/
Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

************************************************

Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!

Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store

Ben - @benchristomusic
Adam - @adamhartist
Vincent - @vincentvdrums
Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps
Instagram - @diamondblackofficial
Facebook - @diamondblackofficial
X - @dmondblk

Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

13 3

YouTube Video VVU0Q01lalc0Q01rUE9fWkpBeVBpVHlBLkNrQ0U3b3VIRTlR

Why School Was Basically Tribal Warfare & Mental Health in Rock Music | Diamond Cast 071

Diamond Black May 10, 2026 7:00 pm

This week on Diamond Cast, we cover a lot of ground — from AC/DC & Iron Maiden and life on tour to a bigger question: Who actually gets to define rock music? We talk about Ben being out on tour with Ricky Warwick, meeting Jacoby Shaddix, and some classic AC/DC discussions (including the important question… what’s in Angus Young’s satchel?). From there, we dive into: – Iron Maiden being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – Whether awards and institutions really matter – Who defines genres and cultural influence – The idea of naming the sound Diamond Black is creating We also get into festivals, Eurovision (yes, really), talent shows, and the strange world of music industry recognition. Plus: new merch, upcoming shows, and a Patreon preview where Ben shares his story of appearing on a TV talent show. 00:00 – Intro 00:35 – Welcome 01:19 – Ben on tour with Ricky Warwick & AC/DC talk 02:57 – What’s in Angus Young’s satchel? 07:05 – Ignoring the naysayers 13:08 – Hanging out with Jacoby Shaddix 16:04 – New merch alert 18:36 – Jack In The Green & Hastings bike run 20:58 – Festivals: too hot or too wet? 26:16 – Iron Maiden & the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 31:20 – Who defines rock music? 37:03 – The most influential bands in culture 39:45 – Naming the Diamond Black sound 42:11 – Other Rock Hall inductees 45:50 – Eurovision: our thoughts 49:46 – Ben wrote a song for Eurovision 52:03 – Upcoming shows we're attending 54:20 – Do music awards matter? 56:05 – Talent shows: good or bad? 01:03:59 – Patreon preview: Ben’s talent show story ************************************************ Join the Diamond Black Community: Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com Listen to Diamond Black: Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black” Follow us: Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial X (Twitter) – @dmondblk ************************************************ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/ Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/ Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms ************************************************ Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat! Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support! DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store Ben - @benchristomusic Adam - @adamhartist Vincent - @vincentvdrums Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps Instagram - @diamondblackofficial Facebook - @diamondblackofficial X - @dmondblk Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

This week on Diamond Cast, we cover a lot of ground — from AC/DC & Iron Maiden and life on tour to a bigger question:

Who actually gets to define rock music?

We talk about Ben being out on tour with Ricky Warwick, meeting Jacoby Shaddix, and some classic AC/DC discussions (including the important question… what’s in Angus Young’s satchel?).

From there, we dive into:
– Iron Maiden being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
– Whether awards and institutions really matter
– Who defines genres and cultural influence
– The idea of naming the sound Diamond Black is creating

We also get into festivals, Eurovision (yes, really), talent shows, and the strange world of music industry recognition.

Plus: new merch, upcoming shows, and a Patreon preview where Ben shares his story of appearing on a TV talent show.

00:00 – Intro
00:35 – Welcome
01:19 – Ben on tour with Ricky Warwick & AC/DC talk
02:57 – What’s in Angus Young’s satchel?
07:05 – Ignoring the naysayers
13:08 – Hanging out with Jacoby Shaddix
16:04 – New merch alert
18:36 – Jack In The Green & Hastings bike run
20:58 – Festivals: too hot or too wet?
26:16 – Iron Maiden & the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
31:20 – Who defines rock music?
37:03 – The most influential bands in culture
39:45 – Naming the Diamond Black sound
42:11 – Other Rock Hall inductees
45:50 – Eurovision: our thoughts
49:46 – Ben wrote a song for Eurovision
52:03 – Upcoming shows we're attending
54:20 – Do music awards matter?
56:05 – Talent shows: good or bad?
01:03:59 – Patreon preview: Ben’s talent show story

************************************************

Join the Diamond Black Community:

Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon:
Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial

YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel
Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store

Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com

Listen to Diamond Black:
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG
Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black”

Follow us:
Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial
X (Twitter) – @dmondblk

************************************************

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial
Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ

Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/
Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/
Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

************************************************

Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!

Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store

Ben - @benchristomusic
Adam - @adamhartist
Vincent - @vincentvdrums
Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps
Instagram - @diamondblackofficial
Facebook - @diamondblackofficial
X - @dmondblk

Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

12 4

YouTube Video VVU0Q01lalc0Q01rUE9fWkpBeVBpVHlBLlpQa2NRMHJyV0NV

Who Defines Rock? | Diamond Cast 070

Diamond Black May 3, 2026 7:00 pm

This week on Diamond Cast, we’re diving into collaboration — how it works, how it shapes music, and how you stay true to your identity while working with other artists. We answer fan questions following last week’s episode and go deep on: – How we work with guest musicians – Dream collaborations – Working with Andy from Therapy? – How collabs influence the sound of Diamond Black – Expanding creatively without losing identity – Writing from different perspectives and characters We also talk about some of our favourite collaborations in music, and the artists — even from completely different genres — we’d love to work with. Plus: coffee, outfits, selling clothes online… and Adam being mysteriously hidden this week. 00:00 – Intro 00:55 – Coffee talk 05:08 – Outfits & selling clothes online 11:44 – Why Adam is hiding this week 13:00 – Fan questions from last week 13:24 – How we work with guest musicians 21:05 – Dream collaborations 26:10 – Working with Andy from Therapy? 29:07 – Diamond Black collaborating with other bands 30:14 – How collabs shape our sound & identity 33:34 – Expanding creatively while staying true 35:09 – Favourite collaborations in music 45:02 – Do we change our style when collaborating? 49:18 – Writing from a character perspective 50:51 – Unexpected dream collabs (different genres) ************************************************ Join the Diamond Black Community: Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com Listen to Diamond Black: Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black” Follow us: Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial X (Twitter) – @dmondblk ************************************************ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/ Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/ Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms ************************************************ Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat! Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support! DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store Ben - @benchristomusic Adam - @adamhartist Vincent - @vincentvdrums Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps Instagram - @diamondblackofficial Facebook - @diamondblackofficial X - @dmondblk Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

This week on Diamond Cast, we’re diving into collaboration — how it works, how it shapes music, and how you stay true to your identity while working with other artists.
We answer fan questions following last week’s episode and go deep on:
– How we work with guest musicians
– Dream collaborations
– Working with Andy from Therapy?
– How collabs influence the sound of Diamond Black
– Expanding creatively without losing identity
– Writing from different perspectives and characters
We also talk about some of our favourite collaborations in music, and the artists — even from completely different genres — we’d love to work with.
Plus: coffee, outfits, selling clothes online… and Adam being mysteriously hidden this week.


00:00 – Intro
00:55 – Coffee talk
05:08 – Outfits & selling clothes online
11:44 – Why Adam is hiding this week
13:00 – Fan questions from last week
13:24 – How we work with guest musicians
21:05 – Dream collaborations
26:10 – Working with Andy from Therapy?
29:07 – Diamond Black collaborating with other bands
30:14 – How collabs shape our sound & identity
33:34 – Expanding creatively while staying true
35:09 – Favourite collaborations in music
45:02 – Do we change our style when collaborating?
49:18 – Writing from a character perspective
50:51 – Unexpected dream collabs (different genres)

************************************************

Join the Diamond Black Community:

Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon:
Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial

YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel
Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store

Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com

Listen to Diamond Black:
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG
Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black”

Follow us:
Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial
X (Twitter) – @dmondblk

************************************************

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial
Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ

Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/
Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/
Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

************************************************

Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!

Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store

Ben - @benchristomusic
Adam - @adamhartist
Vincent - @vincentvdrums
Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps
Instagram - @diamondblackofficial
Facebook - @diamondblackofficial
X - @dmondblk

Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

15 2

YouTube Video VVU0Q01lalc0Q01rUE9fWkpBeVBpVHlBLmJOc0ZrTWpEVExZ

Do Collaborations Change Your Sound? | Diamond Cast 069

Diamond Black April 19, 2026 7:00 pm

This week on Diamond Cast, we dive into collaboration — how we work with other artists, how guest vocals come together, and what it’s really like recording with musicians you’ve admired for years. From Ben stepping into a teaching role and breaking down vocal approaches, to working with artists like Chris Harms (Lord of the Lost) and connections to The 69 Eyes and Therapy?, we explore how different styles, voices and personalities shape a song. We also talk about: – Singing in different languages – How we choose guest vocalists – Where guest vocals fit within a track – The recording process behind collaborations – Adapting to different vocal styles – And the artists we’d love to collaborate with in the future Plus: a quick update on an upcoming merch drop. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 00:48 – Ben becomes a university teacher 04:44 – Singing in different languages & Ben’s lesson approach 09:56 – Adam on Melissa Auf der Maur 14:25 – Collaborating with Andy from Therapy? 17:18 – How we choose guest vocalists 18:24 – Where guest vocals fit in a song 19:20 – Recording guest vocals: process & workflow 21:28 – Working with Chris Harms (Lord of the Lost) 23:15 – What it means to work with your heroes 28:49 – Different vocal styles and approaches 31:52 – Incorporating other artists’ styles 36:15 – The 69 Eyes guest guitar moment 38:11 – Dream collaborations: who’s next? 44:09 – Upcoming merch drop ************************************************ Join the Diamond Black Community: Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com Listen to Diamond Black: Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black” Follow us: Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial X (Twitter) – @dmondblk ************************************************ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/ Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/ Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms ************************************************ Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat! Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support! DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store Ben - @benchristomusic Adam - @adamhartist Vincent - @vincentvdrums Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps Instagram - @diamondblackofficial Facebook - @diamondblackofficial X - @dmondblk Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

This week on Diamond Cast, we dive into collaboration — how we work with other artists, how guest vocals come together, and what it’s really like recording with musicians you’ve admired for years.

From Ben stepping into a teaching role and breaking down vocal approaches, to working with artists like Chris Harms (Lord of the Lost) and connections to The 69 Eyes and Therapy?, we explore how different styles, voices and personalities shape a song.

We also talk about:
– Singing in different languages
– How we choose guest vocalists
– Where guest vocals fit within a track
– The recording process behind collaborations
– Adapting to different vocal styles
– And the artists we’d love to collaborate with in the future

Plus: a quick update on an upcoming merch drop.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
00:48 – Ben becomes a university teacher
04:44 – Singing in different languages & Ben’s lesson approach
09:56 – Adam on Melissa Auf der Maur
14:25 – Collaborating with Andy from Therapy?
17:18 – How we choose guest vocalists
18:24 – Where guest vocals fit in a song
19:20 – Recording guest vocals: process & workflow
21:28 – Working with Chris Harms (Lord of the Lost)
23:15 – What it means to work with your heroes
28:49 – Different vocal styles and approaches
31:52 – Incorporating other artists’ styles
36:15 – The 69 Eyes guest guitar moment
38:11 – Dream collaborations: who’s next?
44:09 – Upcoming merch drop

************************************************
Join the Diamond Black Community:

Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon:
Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial

YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel
Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store

Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com

Listen to Diamond Black:
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG
Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black”

Follow us:
Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial
X (Twitter) – @dmondblk

************************************************

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial
Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ

Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/
Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/
Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

************************************************

Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!

Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store

Ben - @benchristomusic
Adam - @adamhartist
Vincent - @vincentvdrums
Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps
Instagram - @diamondblackofficial
Facebook - @diamondblackofficial
X - @dmondblk

Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

18 4

YouTube Video VVU0Q01lalc0Q01rUE9fWkpBeVBpVHlBLl9leDhLUzZRZHZZ

Collaborations, Guest Vocals & Working With Your Heroes | Diamond Cast 068

Diamond Black April 12, 2026 7:00 pm

This week on Diamond Cast, we dive into the myth of the tortured artist. Do you actually need to suffer to create meaningful art — or is that just a story we’ve told ourselves for decades? We explore emotional intensity, creativity, discipline, and whether pain is a source of great work or something artists are expected to perform. From Richey Edwards to Van Gogh and Beethoven, we look at how suffering has been tied to artistic legacy. We also discuss how creativity evolves over time, whether songs change meaning depending on when they’re written, and the strange feeling of thinking something is incredible at night… then questioning it the next morning. Plus: a look at our new track “Where The Night Crawls”, and Natalie shares her guide to building a mindset for creativity and happiness. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 00:35 – 67 meme & Virtuosity movie talk 04:51 – This week’s topic: the tortured artist 06:31 – Feeling things intensely 07:38 – Do you need suffering to create? 11:12 – Richey Edwards & the Manic Street Preachers 15:27 – Tin foil hat theories 17:32 – Van Gogh, Beethoven & artistic suffering 18:25 – The role of discipline in creativity 20:17 – Tortured artists & empathy 24:18 – New song: Where The Night Crawls 30:14 – Writing the same subject at different stages of life 37:30 – Late-night genius vs morning doubt 40:49 – Natalie’s guide to creativity & happiness 47:45 – Final thoughts 48:45 – Patreon bonus discussion ************************************************ Join the Diamond Black Community: Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com Listen to Diamond Black: Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black” Follow us: Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial X (Twitter) – @dmondblk ************************************************ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/ Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/ Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms ************************************************ Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat! Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support! DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store Ben - @benchristomusic Adam - @adamhartist Vincent - @vincentvdrums Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps Instagram - @diamondblackofficial Facebook - @diamondblackofficial X - @dmondblk Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

This week on Diamond Cast, we dive into the myth of the tortured artist.

Do you actually need to suffer to create meaningful art — or is that just a story we’ve told ourselves for decades?

We explore emotional intensity, creativity, discipline, and whether pain is a source of great work or something artists are expected to perform. From Richey Edwards to Van Gogh and Beethoven, we look at how suffering has been tied to artistic legacy.

We also discuss how creativity evolves over time, whether songs change meaning depending on when they’re written, and the strange feeling of thinking something is incredible at night… then questioning it the next morning.

Plus: a look at our new track “Where The Night Crawls”, and Natalie shares her guide to building a mindset for creativity and happiness.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
00:35 – 67 meme & Virtuosity movie talk
04:51 – This week’s topic: the tortured artist
06:31 – Feeling things intensely
07:38 – Do you need suffering to create?
11:12 – Richey Edwards & the Manic Street Preachers
15:27 – Tin foil hat theories
17:32 – Van Gogh, Beethoven & artistic suffering
18:25 – The role of discipline in creativity
20:17 – Tortured artists & empathy
24:18 – New song: Where The Night Crawls
30:14 – Writing the same subject at different stages of life
37:30 – Late-night genius vs morning doubt
40:49 – Natalie’s guide to creativity & happiness
47:45 – Final thoughts
48:45 – Patreon bonus discussion

************************************************
Join the Diamond Black Community:

Support the band and get an extra 15 minutes of Diamond Cast every week on Patreon:
Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial

YouTube Memberships – Join via the “Join” button on our channel
Merch – https://diamondblackofficial.com/store

Bandcamp – https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com

Listen to Diamond Black:
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5APKOSAXQZh2Kv46TnvEVG
Apple Music – Search “Diamond Black”

Follow us:
Instagram & Facebook – @diamondblackofficial
X (Twitter) – @dmondblk

************************************************

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DiamondBlackOfficial
Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/N5t8ueajMJ

Merch: https://diamondblackofficial.com/store/
Bandcamp: https://diamondblack.bandcamp.com/
Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

************************************************

Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!

Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store

Ben - @benchristomusic
Adam - @adamhartist
Vincent - @vincentvdrums
Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps
Instagram - @diamondblackofficial
Facebook - @diamondblackofficial
X - @dmondblk

Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

14 3

YouTube Video VVU0Q01lalc0Q01rUE9fWkpBeVBpVHlBLmVoSW9NVVRKSm9R

The Tortured Artist: Do You Need Suffering to Create? | Diamond Cast 067

Diamond Black March 22, 2026 8:00 pm

Subscribe

Interview: What fears drag you down? | DIAMOND CAST 019

This week, we’ve got a special interview episode on Diamond Cast! 🎶 Ben sits down to discuss our upcoming single, "In Venom" (released 12/12/24), and gives an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what went into creating this fan-favorite track.

In this episode, we dive into:

- What it was like working with Chris Harms from Lord of the Lost, who guests on this song.

- The experience of playing shows with Lord of the Lost last year.

- The meaning behind "In Venom" and the fears that inspired it.

- Why this live fan favorite is so special, and Ben’s excitement about its release!


If you’ve been waiting for more on "In Venom," this episode has it all—collaboration stories, tour reflections, and a deep dive into the music. Don’t miss it!


👉 **Drop a comment below**: Are you ready for "In Venom"? Let us know what you’re most excited about! And don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for all things Diamond Black.


************************************************


Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!


Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

Listen to this episode

Upcoming Single, Fan Art Contest Result | DIAMOND CAST 018

This week on Diamond Cast, we’ve got an exciting lineup of announcements, creativity, and behind-the-scenes updates just for you!

First, we’re thrilled to unveil our new single announcement—“In Venom”. Get ready for a track that’s dark, intense, and unapologetically Diamond Black. We’ll give you a sneak peek into what inspired this venomous anthem.


Next, we dive into the incredible entries from our fan art competition. The talent you’ve shared has blown us away, and today, we’re picking the winner! Tune in to see if your masterpiece took the top spot and to hear our reactions to the amazing work.


Finally, it’s time for some album updates! 🎶 We’re taking you inside the writing process for our upcoming songs, sharing stories about the creative journey, and revealing how the album is coming together.


Topics Covered:


New single announcement: “In Venom”

Reviewing fan art competition entries and choosing the winner

Updates on new songs and the album-making process


Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights, music updates, and all things Diamond Black. Drop your thoughts below: Which entry is your favorite, and what are you most excited to hear next?


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Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!


Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

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Do Actors Portraying Musicians In Movies Need to Play The Right Notes? | DIAMOND CAST 017

Join Ben and Vincent in this week’s Diamond Cast as they explore the fascinating world of music movies! From iconic documentaries to legendary films about fictitious bands, they share their thoughts on This Is Spinal Tap, Metallica: Some Kind of Monster, and The Dirt.

But that’s not all! Vincent has a big announcement: he’s launching a new venture teaching specialist drum techniques to serious drummers. Plus, they reveal the secrets behind their flawless hair routines (yes, really!).


Highlights include:


* The hilarity of This Is Spinal Tap

* The raw honesty of Metallica: Some Kind of Monster

* The rock ‘n’ roll chaos of The Dirt

* Vincent’s exciting new drumming venture

* Hair care tips from two rock legends


What’s YOUR favorite music movie? Let us know in the comments



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Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!


Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com



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AUDIENCE FAVOURITES


sister_crimson

Dwight Yoakam

Lost Lonely Boys - Cottonfields and Crossroads

Walk the Line

American Satan

Detroit Rock City


MaryColeman6855

Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple


a.leesha.j

Almost Famous


hort_geek30

Labyrinth


kati.kill

The Crow


ar_angemaudit

Control

Corbijn


karine_palma

Rite Here Rite Now


makia.blue

Ray Charles

Bowie


eletainart

Velvet Goldmine


latkamaila

Dirty Dancing

Grease

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Ticket Prices Out of Control? Oasis Controversy + Exclusive Diamond Black News! | DIAMOND CAST 016

This week, we’re diving into the hot topic of skyrocketing gig ticket prices! We cover the Oasis ticket controversy, explore why show costs are rising, and even quiz you on Taylor Swift’s ticket prices. Plus, we’ve got an **exclusive** Diamond Black release announcement and a Sisters of Mercy tour update! Stick around for our Anthems of the Week—what’s yours? Let us know in the comments!

00:00 - Intro

00:39 - 90s Kids TV talk of the week! FUN HOUSE

04:01 - Sisters Of Mercy Tour Update

08:37 - EXCLUSIVE: DIAMOND BLACK RELEASE ANNOUCEMENT

14:11 - Our plans for next year

15:41 - This weeks main subject: Gig Ticket Prices

16:28 - The recent Oasis ticket controversy

23:33 - Ticket Cost in general

28:00 - The cost of producing big shows

30:43 - Nirvana were shocked about Madonna’s ticket prices

32:02 - Taylor Swift ticket price quiz

36:34 - How much have you payed for a gig?

44:58 - Why costs of gigs have risen from Vincents experience

47:01 - Sisters of Mercy ticket sales?

47:46 - Our Anthems of the Week

50:43 - Outro



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Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!


Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com



Links to the Muse videos Adam is in:



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On Being Music Fans | DIAMOND CAST 015

This week on Diamond Cast, we’re diving deep into the world of music fandom! From unforgettable moments meeting our favorite bands to celebrating your incredible fan art and the Diamond Black community, we explore what it truly means to be a dedicated fan.

Also in this episode:


- Tour updates from The Sisters of Mercy

- Shoutouts to our amazing fans—the Diamond Bats!

- Why fandom is such a powerful force in music

- And stick around until the end for our final question: What’s your anthem of the week? Drop yours in the comments!


00:00 - Intro

00:34 - Vincent on the Ba-Dum-Tiss!

01:28 - Sisters of Mercy tour update - Florida Hurricane

04:01 - This weeks topic - Fans of Music & How you connect

04:33 - Stories of amazing fandom

06:49 - Shoutout to Diamond Black fans - The Diamond Bats!

09:01 - Post-tour Blues

10:31 - Our lovely fan community!

11:37 - Meeting fans after the show / Meeting bands you love

15:04 - Adam’s stories of meeting the bands he loves

18:02 - Bands that Vincent has met

22:60 - Fan Art

24:32 - Adam’s teenage websites

26:12 - Fan Art Competition!

28:28 - Your comments

29:45 - Adam being in Muse videos for Hypermusic and Feeling Good!

33:03 - Final Question: What is your anthem of the week?



************************************************


Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!


Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com



Links to the Muse videos Adam is in:



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AI Music: Revolution or Rebellion? Exploring the Future of Creativity & Tech | DIAMOND CAST 014

In this episode, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI-generated music and its impact on the music industry. Join us as we discuss the latest news from the Sisters of Mercy tour, how AI is changing the way we experience music, and whether you can tell the difference between human-made and AI-created tracks. From ethical dilemmas like royalty bypassing to the philosophical questions of originality and artistry, we cover it all!

..and a surprise Toy Story 3 discussion!


00:00:00 - Intro

00:00:35 - Greetings from accross the globe!

00:01:41 - New from on the road of the current Sisters of Mercy tour

00:03:18 - This weeks topic: AI Music

00:05:12 - What do we think of AI Generated Music?

00:06:30 - Can you pick out AI music?

00:11:05 - Adam thinks AI Music is like the Player Piano…

00:15:30 - Could AI be used to bypass paying royalties?

00:17:53 - How technology has helped bands work remotely

00:21:38 - Using AI to zoom out of famous album covers

00:25:44 - AI can’t perfrom live

00:29:43 - Why do people see cover bands if it’s not the real thing?

00:35:07 - Recent arrest over AI music Scam

00:36:38 - Spotify playlists using AI

00:42:50 - AI Music Generator is SOBBING like a Human!?

00:45:58 - University course in Ai?

00:47:26 - Toy Story 3 discussion

00:50:35 - Can AI be used as an Inspiration Generator

00:59:33 - What is Originality?

01:03:44 - Why AI will never be admired like Human skill is

01:08:46 - Conclusion


Don’t miss this thought-provoking journey into the heart of music, technology, and originality.


************************************************


Join our lovely DIAMOND BATS on YouTube in the live-chat!


Please ‘like’ the video if you enjoyed it, and leave a comment too as it really helps the band get more views and get spread around Youtube! We really appreciate all the support!


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com



Links to the articles discussed:

AI Adds Human Cries and Creepy Laughs to People’s Songs Without Warning


https://primesound.org/ai-in-music/#google_vignette


https://musiciansunion.org.uk/news/issues-around-artificial-intelligence-and-the-music-industry-discussed-on-channel-4-news


https://news.ohio.edu/news/2024/04/how-ai-transforming-creative-economy-music-industry

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Analysing Classic Music Videos | DIAMOND CAST 013

This week on Diamond Cast, Ben & Adam take a deep dive into some of the most iconic music videos of all time—from Foo Fighters’ "Everlong" to Weezer’s "Take On Me" and Bonnie Tyler’s "Holding Out for a Hero." Expect plenty of laughs, heated debates, and unexpected tangents, including Ben’s bizarre David Hasselhoff dream.

We’re also taking a nostalgic trip back to Top of the Pops, and for the gearheads out there, we’re breaking down some of our favorite equipment in this episode’s gear showcase.


Join us for:

Classic music videos—what makes them legendary?

Ben’s surreal David Hasselhoff dream

Debating "Take On Me": Masterpiece or overplayed?

A throwback to Top of the Pops

Equipment showcase—Adam’s bass talk returns!

Drop a comment: What’s YOUR favorite classic music video? Let’s discuss!


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00:00 - Intro

00:36 - WHAZZUP

02:04 - Music Video Homework

03:36 - Foo Fighters & Everlong Discussion

08:34 - Ben dreams of David Hasselhoff

12:28 - Back to Everlong

18:16 - Adam loves this one… Ben not so much

20:15 - Weezer’s Take On Me

22:54 - I Think We’re Alone Now

29:22 - Holding out for a hero!

36:00 - Earth Song

44:12 - ADAMS BASS CHAT


DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

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Ben age 12 parodies Def Leppard | DIAMOND CAST 012

EXCLUSIVE: Ben reveals an UNSEEN HOME VIDEO – from when he was just 12 years old! Find out what Ben and his friends got up to when they decided to make their own music video parody to Def Leppard's 'Me And My Wine'... paying homage to the British kids' tv show Rainbow! Plus Adam and Ben comment on your music video suggestions, as well as their own favourites.

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

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Dive into the world of Heavy Metal & Goth Fashion | DIAMOND CAST 011

Reminisce about teenage subcultures with Ben and Adam this week as we discuss all things fashion and style, including tattoos and piercings, how our style evolved from childhood, and join in with another episode of Guess the Band. Also keep up to date on latest band news, and hear our reaction to Marilyn Manson’s new video!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store


Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

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The band reveal their innermost secrets | DIAMOND CAST 010

Which member of Diamond Black loves Judge Judy? Can you guess who binge-watched ALL of RuPaul’s Drag Race while putting all other shows on hold? And who’s the secret rom-com fan? We’re not just talking about what we watch, of course – we’re putting ALL our street cred on the line in our TENTH landmark episode right here on YouTube just for you.

NEW EPISODE EVERY WEEK!

DIAMOND BLACK MERCH - www.diamondblackofficial.com/store

Ben - @benchristomusic

Adam - @adamhartist

Vincent - @vincentvdrums

Natalie - @diamondblacksnaps

Instagram - @diamondblackofficial

Facebook - @diamondblackofficial

X - @dmondblk


Email us! mail@diamondblackofficial.com

Listen to this episode