Though known as a bassist, Matthias spent the past four years cultivating a drumming discipline shaped by the mentorship of Eugene Ryabchenko (Fleshgod Apocalypse). His first ever performance as a drummer took place onstage with Benighted, where he ripped through the band’s fastest material with an ease that stunned both audience and members alike. His arrival crystallizes a new level of intensity within the band, aligning seamlessly with the suffocating psychological horror and clinical brutality at the core of their sound.

For Matthias, this moment carries a deeply personal weight. “[…] it’s an honor for me to join Benighted behind the drums,” he shares. “This very band gave me the motivation five years ago to push myself and truly work hard on this instrument, so joining them today as my first band as a drummer is beyond anything I ever imagined. I’ll give everything I have to live up to the name and unleash all the violence you love so much. Thank you for your welcome and your support, I can’t wait to share this journey with all of you!”

Recorded at Kohlekeller Studio under the engineering of Kristian Kohlmannslehner, The Spineless Freak channels the same grotesque sensory overload explored throughout Ekbom, but chiseled into a single concentrated blast.

Vocalist Julien Truchan reflects on Matthias’ arrival with the same sense of astonishment felt during the casting process. “The whole story is pretty incredible,” he explains. “As we were casting other drummers, I got a message from my friend Eugene of Fleshgod Apocalypse who told me he has a student in Paris who learns incredibly fast and that I should contact him. Matthias came for the casting last July and he just amazed us playing our fastest songs impeccably. He is only 22, plays drums for 4 years and we’re officially his very first band as a drummer! I can’t even imagine his level in 2 or 3 years… He is at the same time a machine and the nicest guy you can find. We’re so happy to welcome him in the band!”