DETHKLOK's Enduring Appeal: How a Fictional Band Keeps Rocking After Two Decades
In a recent interview, Brendon Small, the creative mastermind behind the animated metal sensation DETHKLOK, shared some fascinating insights into the band's longevity and future. Small, co-creator of the Adult Swim hit Metalocalypse, revealed exciting details about what's next for the band, including their upcoming North American tour, 'The Amonklok Conquest,' with AMON AMARTH in spring 2026.
Small's perspective on DETHKLOK's journey is unique. He explained how he unexpectedly became the 'proprietor' of a live entity, something he hadn't initially planned. This shift has opened up new possibilities. The band's recent ventures, including their first-ever tours in Australia and Europe, have demonstrated a strong and growing interest in the project. But here's where it gets controversial: Small is now considering how to evolve DETHKLOK further. He envisions a future where the characters from Metalocalypse take center stage, engaging in humorous interactions, with the music still playing a key role. The promo with Johan Hegg of AMON AMARTH, where the DETHKLOK members are seen in a boardroom, serves as a proof of concept for this new direction.
Small emphasizes that DETHKLOK offers a unique blend of entertainment and music, a combination not found in other TV shows. He believes there's still plenty of potential for the project. And this is the part most people miss: The fact that DETHKLOK's audience has gotten younger over the years is a testament to the band's enduring appeal. Small noted that at recent tours, they've seen fans much younger than their original audience from 2007.
Small also highlights the multifaceted nature of DETHKLOK, which is not just a band but a complete multimedia experience. Their projects involve not just records but also movies, scores, and extensive music production. This is why DETHKLOK is still here today.
A Look Back at DETHKLOK's Legacy
2026 marks DETHKLOK's 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades since Metalocalypse premiered. As a vital force in music and multimedia, DETHKLOK has become both an animated phenomenon and a live metal powerhouse. The band's live performances combine intense musicianship with cinematic flair, bringing the beloved characters of DETHKLOK to life. The live band features Small on guitar and vocals, alongside Gene Hoglan (drums), Pete Griffin (bass), and Nili Brosh (guitar).
Metalocalypse is a cartoon series about a fictional death metal band, DETHKLOK, which has a massive following. The show ran for seven seasons, culminating in the rock opera, 'The Doomstar Requiem.' Following the show's success, Small formed DETHKLOK as a live band, performing the music from the series.
Commercial Success and Comeback
DETHKLOK's first three albums charted in the Top 20 of the Billboard 200, with 'Dethalbum III' reaching No. 10, making it the highest-charting death metal album ever. 'The Doomstar Requiem: A Klok Opera Soundtrack' reached No. 7 on Billboard's soundtrack chart in 2013.
After a period of inactivity, DETHKLOK returned in 2023 with a new album, 'Dethalbum IV,' and an animated movie, 'Metalocalypse: Army Of The Doomstar.' The show's revival was a long-fought battle, especially after Adult Swim canceled Metalocalypse more than a decade ago. The show's popularity among metal fans, who appreciated its Easter eggs and guest appearances, is a testament to its unique appeal. Metalocalypse is a show truly catered to a metal audience, which explains its enduring popularity and the consistent calls for its return.
In 2023, DETHKLOK's co-headlining tour with BABYMETAL, 'Babyklok,' marked their first tour in over a decade.
What do you think? Do you agree that DETHKLOK has successfully bridged the gap between animation and live music? What are your favorite moments from Metalocalypse? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
