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French Hard Rock shooting stars Harsh recently released their new single & video, ‘Back To Life’, taken from the forthcoming new album ‘Feels’, out 3rd July. The band joined us below to talk about the album and everything Harsh-related. Check it out:
What are the origins of Harsh? How long have you been playing together?
Albert and Julien have been like brothers since they met at 4 years old. They started jamming in high school, just to escape the routine and make some noise. Léo and Séverin met at a Slash concert, screaming the lyrics to every song. Turns out, they were all at the same show! When the four of us finally crossed paths, it was instant. We looked the same, we loved the same bands, and we had the same hunger. Harsh was born in a cheap rehearsal studio, with cymbals crashing down on our heads and a shared dream: to live off rock’n’roll. That was almost 8 years ago, and we’ve been playing, touring, and evolving together ever since.
What should people expect when they check the band out?
Raw energy, honesty, and a sound that doesn’t fit in a single box. We mix hard rock, alternative vibes, and pop hooks, but it’s all rooted in that organic, live feeling. Expect songs that hit hard but also make you think. Lyrics about love, identity, and the chaos of life. And if you catch us on stage, be ready to sweat with us. We play like it’s our last show, every time.
How would you describe Harsh?
Harsh is the sound of four guys who refuse to be labeled. We’re not just a rock band; we’re a mix of modern pop sensibilities, alternative edges, and the raw power of classic rock. Think of it as the energy of a live show captured in a record. We’re loud, but we’re also melodic. We’re heavy, but we’re not afraid to be vulnerable. Above all, we’re about connection with each other and with anyone who listens.
How did you feel performing your first gig as a band, and how was it?
We felt like kings. Even though the venue was a tiny bar, the stage was wobbly, and we got paid with a case of beer and 100 bucks. The adrenaline was insane. We played a mix of originals and covers (everything from Aerosmith to Britney Spears, just for fun), and the crowd actually sang along. That night, we knew we were onto something. It wasn’t perfect, but it was ours, and that’s all that mattered.
New single ‘Back To Life’ has just been released. What made this one the ideal track to launch the new forthcoming album ‘Feels’?
‘Back To Life’ is the perfect bridge between where we’ve been and where we’re going. It’s got the energy of our early days but the maturity of everything we’ve learned since. The song is about resilience, about coming back stronger, and that’s exactly what ‘Feels’ is all about. Plus, it’s a banger. It grabs you from the first note and doesn’t let go. We wanted to kick off this era with something that feels like a statement.
The subject matter is quite positive and hopeful!
Absolutely. ‘Feels’ is all about embracing every emotion, even the messy ones, but ‘Back To Life’ is the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s hopeful, but not naive. We’ve all been through tough times, personally and as a band, and this song is about rising above it. The world’s pretty chaotic right now, so we wanted to give people a track that makes them feel alive, not just distracted.
How quickly did the album come together?
We started writing ‘Feels’ two years ago, right after a long tour. We had so much to say, so many stories to tell, that the songs just poured out. Some tracks were written in a day, others took months to perfect. But once we got into the studio, everything clicked. Working with Hannes Braun helped us focus and refine the sound. It was intense, but it all came together faster than we expected, maybe because we were so ready to share it.
What tracks should we look out for once ‘Feels’ is released?
Every track has its own personality, but if we had to pick, “Break Your Way” is a standout; it’s raw and emotional, with a chorus that hits like a punch. “When We’re Together is another favorite; it’s got this haunting melody but a groove that makes you move. And “Offer You A Rome” is pure adrenaline, the kind of song that’ll explode live. But honestly, we’re proud of the whole album. It’s a journey, and every track has its place.
Kissin’ Dynamite is one of our favourite bands. How was it working with KD vocalist Hannes Braun on the album?
Working with Hannes was a dream. We’ve been fans of Kissin’ Dynamite for years, so having him mix and master ‘Feels’ was surreal. He just gets it, he knew how to push our sound further without losing what makes us Harsh. He’s also incredibly easy to work with; no ego, just a shared passion for great music. We learned a lot from him, and we’re already talking about future collaborations.
In what ways do you feel that the band has grown since the debut album four years ago?
We’ve grown in every way: musically, personally, and as a unit. ‘Out Of Control’ was us finding our voice, but ‘Feels’ is us owning it. We’re more confident in the studio, tighter on stage, and we’ve learned to trust each other’s instincts. We’ve also toured a lot, which changes you. You learn what works live, what connects with people, and how to keep the energy up night after night. Plus, we’ve all been through a lot in our personal lives, and that’s in the music now. It’s deeper, more honest.
Harsh are regular visitors to the UK. Touring is getting more difficult and costly with each passing day; it would seem, though, that breaking the UK is a priority for the band.
The UK has always felt like a second home to us. The crowds are insane, the energy is electric, and there’s something about playing there that just feels right. Yeah, touring is harder than ever (visas, costs, logistics), but the UK is worth it. We’ve opened doors there, and we’re not about to let them close. Breaking the UK isn’t just a goal; it’s a promise to ourselves and our fans. We’ll keep coming back, no matter what.
Harsh has opened for heavier acts such as Anvil and Chris Holmes, and more melodic acts like The New Roses. What makes Harsh a perfect choice for such varied acts?
We’re a bit of a chameleon; we can bring the heaviness when we need to, but we’ve also got the melodies and hooks to fit in with more melodic bands. Our sound is versatile, and our live show is all about energy, no matter the crowd. We respect and love every band we’ve opened for, and we adapt without losing ourselves. Whether it’s a metal crowd or a rock crowd, we give them a show they’ll remember.
Excluding yourself, which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
We’re huge fans of Existance. They’re bringing something fresh and powerful to the metal scene. Raw energy, killer riffs, and a sound that’s both modern and rooted in the classics. They’ve got the potential to explode, and we’d love to see them get the recognition they deserve. The world needs bands like Existance to keep the fire of heavy music burning.
What are your first musical memories?
Albert and Julien: Albert’s dad blasting ACCEPT, AC/DC, and Guns N’ Roses in the car, singing along at the top of our lungs.
Léo: That’s a funny one, because it is also hearing a lot of music in the car with my family, during our road trips. We had all kinds of music, but mostly rock’n’roll, and AC/DC was probably the one that I listened to the most.
Séverin: A Queen cassette tape out of a small player!
And what was the lightbulb moment that made you say, “I want to do that”?
For all of us, it was seeing a live show that changed everything. For Albert and Julien, it was a local band playing, the energy, the connection with the crowd, the sheer joy of it. For Léo and Séverin, it was seeing Slash live. That moment when the music hits you so hard you know you have to be part of it. There was no Plan B after that.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
We caught BlackRain and Overdrivers at Le Trianon in Paris. The energy was electric, and both bands absolutely killed it. It was one of those nights where you leave feeling pumped and reminded why live music is so special. We loved every second of it, great performances, great crowd, just a perfect rock’n’roll night.
What current social issues are you particularly passionate about?
We believe that everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, faces their own struggles, and every single one of those struggles matters. Mental health, identity, loneliness, or just feeling lost in this chaotic world: these are things we all experience in one way or another. With our music, we try to speak to everyone because we genuinely think every person is important and deserves to be heard. No one should ever feel left behind or invisible. If our songs can make even one person feel understood or less alone, then we’re doing something right. That’s what rock’n’roll is about: bringing people together, no matter what they’re going through.
What frustrates you about the music business?
We’re incredibly lucky to live in a time where platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and social media give us the chance to connect with listeners all over the world. Being able to share our music and build a community across borders is something we never take for granted. It’s changed the game for artists like us.
That said, the flip side is that revenue from these platforms remains very low, while touring costs have never been higher. It’s a real challenge for bands like ours: balancing our passion for playing live with the financial reality. But in a way, that’s what pushes us to be more creative, whether in our music or how we run our project.
At the end of the day, what matters most is sharing our energy and our love for music with people. That’s what keeps us pushing, no matter what.
The album in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
Albert: I was born in between a Polish and Italian family, and I grew up with those great Italian songs. I still see my grandfather playing these old catchy albums on the Hi-Fi while the family were reunited, listening to Italian music reminds me of so much good memories, I would say Svalutation by Adriano Celentano.
Julien: Ron Carter’s collaboration with WDR Big Band on “My Personal Songbook”. Ron Carter is a genius, and this collaboration is just a masterpiece in my opinion!
Léo: This is a tough one. I’ve always been a big fan of music, a “digger” I must say. Outside rock and metal, which are a big part of my life, I’ve always liked funk, disco, jazz, and classical music. So I would probably pick Dvořák’s Romance for piano and violin (Op. 11).
Séverin: Chopin’s complete works. I’ve got it all, Nocturnes, Ballades, everything. There’s something about the emotion and the precision in his music that just connects. After playing heavy riffs all day, it’s the perfect balance, powerful in its own way, but without a single distorted note. It’s not a break from music; it’s another side of it.
Everybody is a fan of something. Who or what are you a fan of?
Albert: Myles Kennedy, his voice is pure magic, and his ability to blend power and emotion in every note is something I’ve always admired. Also, a huge fan of MotoGP, especially Valentino Rossi, the speed, the strategy, and the sheer adrenaline of it.
Julien: Billy Sheehan, the man is a bass legend, and his technique is mind-blowing. Outside of music, I’m obsessed with History, I really love to learn and try to understand what happened in the past!
Léo: Chris Cornell. His voice, every band he’s been a part of, and songwriting have shaped so much of what I love about music. Beyond that, I would say the way the body works. Physical therapy always fascinated me, through sports or healing, treating the body, the muscles. This is definitely a big interest that I have.
Séverin: Yngwie Malmsteen, his shredding is unmatched, and he’s the reason I picked up a guitar. But I’m also a huge fan of musical gear, vintage or new. There’s something about the craftsmanship, the history, and the endless possibilities of guitars, amps, and pedals that just fascinates me.
What new music have you been enjoying recently?
We’ve been hooked on Beast In Black. We discovered them not too long ago, and their mix of modern metal and classic hooks is just addictive. Dirty Honey keeps delivering with their raw, retro-inspired rock, and Kissin’ Dynamite never disappoints; they’re the reason we’re all obsessed with big choruses and even bigger energy. The New Roses have that perfect blend of rock n roll energy and melody, and we can’t get enough of their latest stuff. And of course, Existance, their new album dropped a few weeks ago, and it’s a monster. French metal at its finest!
What does the rest of 2026 hold for Harsh?
2026 is shaping up to be a year of raw energy and new challenges. We’re taking Feels on the road, playing everywhere from festivals to the grittiest venues, because that’s where the real magic happens, face to face with the crowd, no barriers. The UK and Europe are calling, and we’re answering loud and clear.
We’re also already cooking up new music. The ideas are flowing, the riffs are heavy, and the vibe is electric. This isn’t just about repeating what we’ve done; it’s about evolving, surprising ourselves, and keeping the fire alive.
The road ahead is wide open, and we’re charging forward with no regrets. The best is yet to come!
All images supplied by BJF PR. Credit Florian Piozzoli.
“Feels” will be released on a CD, ltd. blue-marbled-opaque VINYL and digital Pre-Order the ALBUM here: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/feels
HARSH live:
May 16 – L’empreinte – Savigny Le Temps (FR)
June 26 – Damfest – Dammartin-sur-Tigeaux (FR)
July 31 – The Garage – Glasgow (UK)
August 1 – The Auld Gambling Hoose – Alloa (UK)
August 15 – Savfest – Coalville (UK)
w/ THE NEW ROSES:
November 13 – Rosenhof – Osnabrück (GER)
November 14 – Kantine – Köln (GER)
November 19 – Colos Saal – Aschaffenburg (GER)
November 20 – Z7 – Pratteln (CH)
November 21 – Garage – Saarbrücken (GER)
HARSH is:
Albert Arnold – Lead vocals & guitar
Séverin Piozzoli – Guitar & backing vocals
Julien Martin – Bass & backing vocals
Léo Löwenthal – Drums & backing vocals
HARSH online:
Homepage: https://www.harshband.com
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/bandHARSH
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harsh_band
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HarshbandRocks
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@harshband
X: https://x.com/Band_HARSH
