Crossbone Skully has collaborated with Mötley Crüe bassist and founding member Nikki Sixx on the track “High On You,” a powerful song that delves into the intensity of romantic obsession, highlighted by its anthemic, shout-to-the-heavens chorus. The artwork for the single, crafted by Mark Wilkinson (known for his work with Iron Maiden and Judas Priest), reflects the struggles of “Crossbone Skully,” the protagonist in a parallel mythology created by the band’s founder and frontman Tommy Henriksen.
Henriksen, who also plays guitar and serves as the musical director for Alice Cooper’s band, as well as being a member of Hollywood Vampires, explains that “‘High On You’ shows the taste of young, pure love…the type that gets you hooked on the bug! Love is an everlasting drug!”
This narrative is set to unfold further in Crossbone Skully’s upcoming debut album, “Evil World Machine,“ scheduled for release on November 22 through Better Noise Music. The story will continue to expand in a forthcoming graphic novel and animated film, Thing #1, expected in 2025, which will feature voiceovers by Sixx. “Crossbone Skully is doing something visually unique while blending kickass riffs and great songwriting with this project,” says Sixx, who also played bass on “High On You.” “I’m excited for them and can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”
Produced by the legendary Robert John “Mutt” Lange, who came out of retirement for this project, “Evil World Machine” is a rock concept album that echoes the dystopian themes of David Bowie’s “Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars” and “Diamond Dogs“. Henriksen brought together a remarkable group of supporting musicians for the album, including guitarist Tommy Denander, keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac (My Chemical Romance, John Mayer, Seal), bassist Chris Wyse (Hollywood Vampires, Ace Frehley, The Cult, Ozzy Osbourne), drummer Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires), the late U.F.O. bassist Pete Way, mixer Olle Romo (Muse, Bryan Adams), and producer/mixer Mike Plotnikoff (AC/DC, Aerosmith).
Adding to the album’s cinematic feel, spoken-word performances are featured throughout, with Hollywood Vampires bandmate Johnny Depp voicing “The Sorcerer,” Alice Cooper as “The Bringer Of Light,” Joe Perry as “Big Bad Bone Crusher,” Nikki Sixx as “The Crooked Crow,” and Kane Roberts as “Alpha Watchman.”
Crossbone Skully are:
- Tommy Henriksen / Vocals
- Anna “Blackthorn” Cara / Guitar
- Sam “Bam” Koltun / Guitar
- Chris Wyse / Bass
- Alex “Thumper” Boch / Drums