Interview by Angela Croudace
In the ever-evolving world of metal, League of Distortion is carving out its own niche, led by the dynamic Anna Brunner, also known as Ace. Fresh off the release of their new album Galvanize, Anna’s passion for music and empowering messages shines through in every note. We caught up with her to discuss the band’s journey, the inspiration behind their latest work, and the significance of representation in the metal scene.
With the self-titled debut album released in 2022, fans are eager for more. Anna shares that Galvanized features entirely new material, except for a couple of reworked tracks. “There’s one song that didn’t fit on the first album, and we took that again and redid it,” she explains. “But I always have so many new ideas, so it felt natural to create new content.” The evolution in her songwriting reflects a shift in mindset, allowing her to explore themes that resonate with her current experiences.
As a relatively new band, League of Distortion have already taken the stage at major festivals, a daunting task for any artist. Anna recalls her first show after the release of their single Wolf or Lamb. “It felt so natural. I’ve played gigs before, but this was something special. I was pretty fucking nervous,” she admits, laughing. “But I appreciate my nervousness; it makes me focus.” It’s clear that while the pressure of performing can be overwhelming, it also fuels her passion and drive.
In a genre often dominated by male voices, Anna is proud to be part of a growing movement of female metal vocalists. “I don’t seek to be different; I just want to be an example for women and everyone to show them that if you work hard, you can reach your goals,” she states. Her commitment to empowerment is not just about gender but about inspiring anyone who feels marginalized to pursue their dreams. “I want to show that we can do this together.”
The songwriting process for League of Distortion is a collaborative effort. Anna works closely with producers Hannes Braun and Julien Breuker, bouncing ideas back and forth to create a sound that blends various influences, from hard rock to hip-hop. “We mix styles, and I never really thought about it; I just throw loops and sounds together,” she shares. This approach allows the band to stay innovative and fresh, capturing the essence of their diverse musical backgrounds.
With the world facing significant challenges, Anna emphasizes the importance of using music as a platform for hope and positivity. “There’s so much fighting and envy, and I want to use our music to give energy back,” she explains. “We are more, and together we can create a movement for change.” Her vision is clear: to rally listeners around a shared sense of purpose, encouraging them to rise above negativity.
League of Distortion boasts an impressive line-up that showcases a wealth of talent and diverse musical backgrounds. At the forefront is Anna Brunner, a dynamic vocalist renowned for her powerful voice and her work with the band Exit Eden. Joining her is Jim Muller, also known as Arro, from the celebrated group Kissin' Dynamite. Adding to the band's depth are drummer Tino Calmbach and bassist Felix Rehmann, both of whom bring their own unique flair to the ensemble. Together, this powerhouse combination creates a dynamic that not only enhances the band's distinctive sound but also reflects their individual experiences in the music industry.
As the band looks to the future, Anna expresses a desire to tour in Australia, a dream that resonates with fans down under. “That would be one of my bucket list dreams,” she enthuses. With plans to continue spreading their message through powerful performances and engaging music, League of Distortion is poised to make a lasting impact in the metal scene.
In a world where representation matters more than ever, Anna Brunner and League of Distortion are not just making music—they’re making waves. With their unique sound and powerful message, they are set to inspire a new generation of fans and musicians alike. As Anna puts it, “We still have a long way to go, but together, we can reach more people and create something beautiful.”