Bassist/vocalist Schmier of thrash metal veterans DESTRUCTION spoke with Stefan Nilsson of Roppongi Rocks about what keeps him going nearly four decades since the band's inception.

Music is a lifestyle, he explained, a feeling that brings happiness to himself and his fans.

Despite considering other pursuits, including running a restaurant, music remains Schmier's true passion.

He sees no end to his career in sight, stating "I will drop dead" after music, as long as the fans want to see him perform.

In a recent interview with BLABBERMOUTH.NET, Schmier discussed the addition of guitarist Damir Eskić and Martin Furia to DESTRUCTION's lineup.

Eskić joined the band in 2019 and is a skilled guitar teacher who has worked with renowned shredder Tommy Vetterli (CORONER).

Furia, on the other hand, made his debut with DESTRUCTION in 2021 after rising to prominence as a sound engineer and producer for bands like NERVOSA and EVIL INVADERS.

Schmier reminisced about DESTRUCTION's time as a trio, which included bassist/vocalist Michael Monsterslamt and guitarists Tom Siffinger and Ralph Schäfer.

However, he believes the addition of a second guitarist brings new creative possibilities and live performances have become more raw and powerful.

The band will be touring alongside TESTAMENT on their current leg of the "Thrash Of The Titans" world tour, visiting various cities across the United States.

In related news, DESTRUCTION's latest album "Birth Of Malice", released via Napalm Records in March 2025, was recorded at Switzerland's Little Creek Studio with V.O.

Pulver behind the console and mastered by Martin Furia at Germany's The Black Mancave.

The band's lineup currently features Schmier on bass/vocals, Furia and Eskić on guitars, and drummer Randy Black.

The band has experienced significant success throughout their career, having performed at numerous major festivals worldwide.

They officially parted ways with founding guitarist Mike Sifringer in August 2021 and replaced him with Furia.