**INTERVIEW: TOMMY HENRIKSEN (Crossbone Skully, Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires) Talks About Debut Album ‘Evil World Machine’ and More**
*In an exclusive interview, Tommy Henriksen, the versatile musician known for his work with Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires, and his own project, Crossbone Skully, dives into the making of his debut solo album, *Evil World Machine*. With a career spanning across various iconic rock acts, Henriksen reflects on his creative journey, the inspirations behind his new project, and the future of rock music.*
**Tommy, you’ve worked with some of the biggest names in rock music, from Alice Cooper to Hollywood Vampires. What led you to release your debut solo album, ‘Evil World Machine’?**
“I’ve always been involved in so many projects, and a lot of the time, it’s easy to get caught up in other people’s creative visions,” Henriksen explains. “I wanted to create something that truly represents my own voice and style. The idea of *Evil World Machine* came to me over time as I realized I had this collection of ideas that didn’t quite fit in the projects I was working on. It was time to make something that was all me.”
**What can listeners expect from the sound of *Evil World Machine* compared to your other work with Crossbone Skully and your collaborations with Alice Cooper?**
Henriksen reveals that while *Evil World Machine* retains some of his familiar rock edge, it ventures into deeper, more personal territory. “With Crossbone Skully, there’s a bit of a heavier, more raw sound. But with *Evil World Machine*, I really let myself experiment with melodies and structures. It’s a lot more layered and complex, mixing hard rock, blues, and even some darker, electronic undertones. It’s a reflection of my musical evolution and my desire to push boundaries.”
**The album has a very intriguing title. What does ‘Evil World Machine’ represent?**
“To me, the title *Evil World Machine* represents the chaos and contradictions of the world we live in,” Henriksen explains thoughtfully. “We live in a time where things often feel out of control, yet there’s this machine-like force that keeps everything moving. It’s a commentary on society and the darker forces at play, but also a bit of self-reflection on my own experiences with the industry. The music itself explores these themes of struggle, survival, and resilience.”
**Who were some of your key influences in the creation of this album?**
Henriksen points to a variety of musical icons that shaped his sound, including David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Led Zeppelin. “I’ve always admired musicians who aren’t afraid to break the mold. Bowie’s ability to reinvent himself constantly inspired me to experiment and push the limits of my own sound. Iggy’s raw energy and Zeppelin’s musicianship are also big influences. I wanted to blend the soul of rock with modern elements, creating something that feels timeless yet fresh.”
**Can you share any memorable moments or challenges you faced during the recording process?**
“Recording this album was a true labor of love,” Henriksen recalls. “There were definitely challenges along the way, especially with time constraints and juggling multiple projects. But there were some incredible moments too. Working in the studio, I really had the freedom to experiment. One of the standout moments for me was when the track ‘Shattered Glass’ finally came together—it had so many moving parts, but when we nailed the final mix, it was like everything clicked into place. It felt like magic.”
**As someone who’s been part of iconic groups like Alice Cooper and Hollywood Vampires, how do you view the future of rock music?**
Henriksen remains optimistic about the future of rock despite the changing music landscape. “Rock music is always evolving. It’s never going away; it just shifts. There’s always a new generation of musicians coming up, and I think the genre is still alive and kicking. With my solo work and collaborations, I want to be part of that wave of innovation. We’re going to see more blends of genres, more risks taken, and more fans discovering the raw energy of rock.”
**Looking ahead, what’s next for you after the release of *Evil World Machine*?**
Henriksen is already looking forward to what comes next, both for his solo career and his collaborations. “After the album’s release, I’ll be focusing on getting the live shows together. Performing these songs live is going to be an exciting challenge. I also have some upcoming projects with Alice Cooper and the Hollywood Vampires. There’s a lot in the pipeline, and I’m really just looking forward to continuing to evolve as an artist and connect with fans through my music.”
*Tommy Henriksen’s debut solo album *Evil World Machine* is now available. Fans can expect an eclectic, gritty mix of hard rock and experimental sounds that showcase Henriksen’s undeniable talent and artistic vision.*