The story of Beastwars reaches back to 1986, when singer Matt Hyde started his first band, Microwave Babies, while still at Saint Bernard's College in Lower Hutt (the band imploded in early 1988). Following this, Hyde moved to Australia and was hit by the first stirrings of grunge, especially Soundgarden.
While living in the UK, Hickey joined the metal group, Elephant Tree.
Beastwars often cited their credo as being "obey the riff" – partly reflected in the fact that they pass over guitar solos and showy elements in favour of creating atmosphere and focusing on the overall sonics of the song.
Universal
Matt and Clayton interviewed on The Void with Christina
Matt Hyde - vocals
Clayton Anderson - guitar
James Woods - bass
Nathan ‘Nato’ Hickey - drums