CATEGORY 7 (John Bush) interview

We sit down with the legendary John Bush, frontman of the all-star heavy metal force CATEGORY 7. Following the release of their explosive self-titled debut through Metal Blade Records, the band has quickly established itself as far more than a “supergroup.” With members drawn from some of metal’s most iconic acts, CATEGORY 7 blends the grit of classic heavy metal, the speed of thrash, and the power of modern songwriting into a sound that feels both timeless and fiercely energized.

In this interview, John gives us a deeper look into the band’s creative chemistry, the stories behind the songs, and what lies ahead for this exceptional new chapter in his career.

1. With such an accomplished lineup, many fans immediately label CATEGORY 7 as a “supergroup.” How do you personally define what this band is / and isn’t beyond that title?

JB: I certainly would never say I or anything I’m associated with is a super group. I would say it’s a band of very talented, seasoned musicians. Titles aren’t very important to me.

2. Phil mentioned feeling that this is a true band rather than a side project. Was there a specific moment in the writing or recording process when CATEGORY 7 began to truly feel like a unified entity?

JB: I guess when we started making the record. At that point with 10 songs written and having a record contract it felt official. Once again I am personally not caught up in the meaning of ‘what it is’. Everyone who knows any of us knows that we're all involved in other things. It doesn’t make this not legitimate. The record kills. 

3. The album blends NWOBHM, thrash, punk-metal, and traditional metal into something fresh yet familiar. How did you approach merging those influences without losing cohesion or identity?

JB: The guitar riffs are pretty amazing. I tried to match that intensity vocally. Always looking to be witty lyrically. Jason and Jack tore it up on the rhythm section. Combining everyone’s talents and influences with striving to be inventive came through. The songs are great.

4. Described the songwriting as being driven by “big verses and big songs.” Can you walk us through your creative process when shaping the core sound and direction of this debut?

JB: I read a story in the paper about a pregnant unhoused woman. Her nickname was Stitches. I thought that is a pretty tough existence. It’s not a bio of her. I created a fictional idea from the story. Real powerful intro. The video was almost an afterthought. Ironically it became the first one and the biggest one. 

5. “In Stitches” is a powerful and dynamic opener both musically and lyrically. John, what drew you to the story of Stitches, and how did that emotional complexity shape the track?

JB: I approached the melodies and lyrics the way I usually do. Absorb the music for a bit and just start humming stuff. A lot of the time I just start writing lyrics and stories and theme’s develop. I had a few titles so it made it easy to just start running with it. 

6. The record was produced, engineered, mixed, and mastered by Mike Orlando at Sonic Stomp Studios. How did having so much of the production handled in-house influence the final sound of the album?

JB: Mike is a really talented dude. His home studio is off the charts. It’s a band no doubt but Mike is the driving force. It just made sense for him to produce it. He had home court at his place!

7. From double-bass assaults to soaring vocal sections, the album covers a wide sonic range. Which song pushed the band the most creatively or technically during the recording process?

JB: Hell probably the instrumental Etter Stormen. That song really demonstrates these dudes incredible abilities. You fill in the blanks with my vocals and you got an awesome debut album.

8. The album artwork by Carlos Fides visually reinforces the intensity of the music. What was the concept behind the art, and how does it connect to the themes of the record? 

JB: Just matching the name of the band and the artwork with the power of the music. I wouldn’t ever want to be caught in a Category 7 hurricane! 

9. You have upcoming shows where John will be celebrating the songs of Anthrax. How does CATEGORY 7 plan to balance its identity with the legacy of your individual musical histories during these live performances? 

JB: Well honestly it’s two different things so it show.  C7 is a current band and the Thrax songs are 20 to 30 years old. I look forward to hearing those guys on the Anthrax material. I know it’s all going to sound super fresh and they’re going to tear it up. It’s going to be a great night of music. 

Thank you to John Bush for sharing his insight into the world of CATEGORY 7 and the making of their debut album. With their unmistakable chemistry and veteran firepower, the band is already carving out its own identity and momentum. Be sure to check out the record and catch them on tour as they continue forging this powerful new era of heavy metal.

For more information, visit:
https://www.category7official.com 
https://www.instagram.com/category7band