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Sydney’s masters of mayhem, Black Rheno, return with their first new music release since 2022, and it’s a goddamn banger! Well known for mixing up the heavy flavours and bringing more energy to the stage than a cyclone on steroids, Black Rheno’s new single “Snake Will Rattle” captures all that high-energy rage mixed with full-blown party vibes from start to finish. Simply put, this track slams. The video itself is pretty bonkers and a bit wild, so we caught up with guitarist Nano to chat about what inspired the track and hilarious video.
What inspired the high-energy vibe of your new single, “Snake Will Rattle”?
‘Snake Will Rattle’ came from this intense feeling, like we all had a fire building up inside just waiting to go off. We wanted a track that hits hard from the very first beat—something that feels like you’re charging full-tilt with zero brakes. It’s gritty, it’s heavy, and it’s the perfect way to let out a bit of aggression in the best possible way. We also wanted a song we’d have a blast playing live. I actually wrote part of it while we were over in the States, recording the next album, in Texas with Machine as the producer. That vibe and setting added an extra layer to it—think hot, intense days and fun nights with the boys.
How did you go about filming all the parts for the video, and how long did it take to complete?
Filming was absolute chaos, but we loved every minute. We wanted the visuals to be just as intense as the track, so it was a lot of crazy ideas, rolling with the punches, and keeping the energy high. We shot most of it in a single stretch over one big day—it was an adventure, that’s for sure. Adam from Main Street Studio was a legend. We had a few chats with him about creating something that would represent the raw, unfiltered vibe of Black Rheno, and he took it to another level. The final result is gritty, chaotic, and perfectly captures what we’re all about.
Can you tell us about the creative process behind the music video for “Snake Will Rattle”? What was the inspiration for its “bonkers” style?
The whole concept was to match the song’s chaotic vibe. The track itself is unpredictable, and we wanted the video to capture that same kind of explosive energy. It’s full-throttle, just like the song, and we had a blast pushing the boundaries with some pretty out-there ideas. Our approach was basically, ‘What would look insane and get people talking?’ It’s all about embracing the madness. The track is pedal-to-the-metal from start to finish, and we wanted to do it justice with a video that’s equally relentless. I’ve watched it a bunch of times, and every time I spot new details I hadn’t noticed—it’s packed with wild little moments.
How would you describe the mix of musical influences on “Snake Will Rattle”?
It’s like a cocktail of groove-driven madness. Each of us brings something different to the table, so you end up with this raw, heavy sound that has a killer groove to keep it moving. We’re definitely influenced by a bunch of different sounds, but we’re focused on keeping it our own thing—heavy, intense, unpredictable, and, most importantly, something we can’t wait to play live.
You’re known for bringing intense energy to the stage. How do you maintain that level of performance, especially with such physically demanding shows?
It’s like a switch flicks the second we hit the stage. You’re feeding off the crowd’s energy, and there’s no way to hold back—it’s all or nothing. Off stage, we take care of ourselves, but once we’re up there, it’s game on. It’s about connecting with the crowd and getting lost in the music. And honestly, that’s just who we are. We express our art through our music, but the live shows are a huge part of it too. They’re raw, they’re intense, and they’re mental. It’s not staged; it’s just how we play and express ourselves.
You must have some bonkers fans at your shows. What’s the wildest fan experience you’ve encountered?
Oh mate, we’ve seen it all! Rheno shows can go anywhere. One time, some bloke wandered up mid-set and just started telling jokes. Some people still bring pineapples to gigs—a nod to our clip for ‘No Time for Numb Nuts’. Then there was this time a guy tried drinking beer out of a Bible. But mostly, people come ready to let loose and party.
What can fans expect from the release shows at The Hamilton Station Hotel and The Duke Hotel?
Expect absolute mayhem. We’re pulling out all the stops for these shows. It’s going to be loud, raw, and in-your-face from start to finish. We’re bringing fresh energy, a bit of madness, and it’s going to be an absolute blast.
How was it opening for heavy metal icons Pantera earlier this year? What was that experience like?
Opening for Pantera was unreal. They’re legends, and getting to share the stage with them was one of those pinch-yourself moments. The crowd was massive and intense, which is exactly the kind of energy we thrive on. Seeing Phil on the side of the stage, rocking out to our tunes, was a total ‘is this real?’ moment. It was a huge honour and a massive milestone for us.
Since it’s been over a year since your last release, how have you grown as a band during this time?
We’ve come into our own a lot more over the past year. We’re more in sync as a band, and we’ve refined our sound while also becoming more confident in pushing things to new levels. We’ve done some serious soul-searching, trying to get to the core of what makes us unique. Right now, we’re in a great place as a band and as a live act, and we’re keen to keep pushing the boundaries.
How do you manage to balance the “mayhem” of your music with the fun, humorous side we see in your videos?
We’re all about the intense music, but we’re not serious 24/7! The humour in the videos shows that we know how to have a laugh and that we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Heavy music doesn’t always have to be tied up with grim expressions and seriousness. For us, the mix works because it’s who we are. It gives fans a bit of insight into the other side of Black Rheno.
What do you hope fans take away from both the single and the music video for “Snake Will Rattle”?
We want fans to feel the same rush we felt while making it. It’s a song and a video designed to hit hard and leave an impression. If it makes people feel like they’re part of the madness, then we’ve done our job.
Are there any surprises in store for fans attending your live shows this November?
Absolutely, but we’re not giving too much away! We’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves and maybe a few unexpected moments. Let’s just say, if you’re coming to the show, expect the unexpected. Who knows, maybe a fun cover might make its way in. But fans can definitely expect what they’re there for: pure mayhem and heavy riffs.
If you could have five bonkers things on your rider for backstage, what would they be and why?
Alright, here’s the list: 1. An endless supply of chicken nuggets. 2. A pig. 3. A nun. 4. A live mariachi band so we can have a dance with the nun. 5. A go-kart. Because why not?
What’s next on the horizon for the band?
We’re already working on more new music, so expect more chaos coming your way soon. We’re looking to take things even further and have a few surprises lined up that we’re stoked to share. This is just the beginning for us. We’ve got loads of music and ideas in the works; it’s just a matter of getting it out there when it makes sense.
Black Rheno have also booked two release parties to celebrate, playing at The Hamilton Station Hotel in Newcastle on November 2nd and The Duke Hotel in Sydney on November 23rd. Having already toured the east coast earlier this year, along with opening for heavy metal icons Pantera at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, it seems like these guys are set to round the year out in style. No doubt these shows will be rowdy!
“Snake Will Rattle” is available now on YouTube and will go live on all major streaming platforms on November 8th.
Catch Black Rheno live this November.
Newcastle – Nov 2nd – The Hamilton Station Hotel
W/ Evocatus, I Hate People, Phantom
Tix: www.blackrehno.com
Sydney – Nov 23rd – The Duke
W/ Darkhorse, Mourners, Bifter
Free entry
