We recently caught up with Thomas Youngblood, founding guitarist of symphonic metal powerhouse Kamelot, for a candid and engaging conversation about life during lockdown, the state of the music industry, and the band’s latest live release. From Renaissance fairs to the challenges of touring in a post-COVID world, Thomas gave us a look behind the curtain of one of metal’s most enduring acts.
Live Music During a Pandemic
Calling in from Florida—“the COVID capital of the Southeast,” as he put it—Thomas reflected on the bizarre inconsistency of pandemic restrictions.
“It’s crazy that you can pack 300 people into a plane but can’t have a concert with a few hundred people. It comes down to lobbying—and unfortunately, music venues don’t have the right kind of advocates.”
Still, Kamelot has been fortunate. The band was already in a writing phase when the pandemic hit, and their latest live release, I Am the Empire – Live from the 013, landed at the perfect time. Fans were grateful to have something new to enjoy during lockdown.
Recording in the Netherlands
The live album was recorded at 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands, a venue that has become a Kamelot stronghold.
“Every show we’ve done in Holland for the past 10 years has sold out. The venue’s perfect for our production, the size, the sound—it just made sense.”
While the U.S. has venues that could compare, like The Grove in Anaheim or the PlayStation Theater in New York, the Netherlands has always been a consistent stronghold for the band.
Digital Shift & Physical Holdouts
When asked about the shift from traditional music consumption to digital, Thomas emphasized adaptability.
“Touring is more important than ever, but we’re also lucky to have fans who still buy physical media—CDs, vinyl, even Blu-rays. You have to evolve, especially with merch at shows.”
Creative Partnerships & Band Chemistry
Thomas also spoke about longtime collaborator and producer Sascha Paeth.
“We’ve worked with him for over 13 years—he’s like a sixth member. He even appears on one of the songs on the new live album.”
As for band dynamics, the current Kamelot lineup is tight.
“We’re all really good friends. That wasn’t always the case, but this lineup really gels.”
Still, Thomas acknowledged that bands can function like any job.
“You don’t have to be best friends. You just have to be professional.”
Looking to the Future of Touring
Right now, there are no plans for Kamelot to tour North America until 2022.
“We had a show planned for June 2021, but I’m not sure that’ll happen. We’re just focusing on writing and taking a break—something we wouldn’t have done otherwise.”
When asked about livestreams and drive-in concerts, Thomas was clear:
“The live experience is irreplaceable. If we had to do those things, we would, but we’re willing to wait until we can tour like we used to.”
The Origins of Kamelot
The band’s name, spelled with a “K” instead of a “C,” came from a love of medieval themes.
“There was a Camelot music store, so we changed the spelling. We were into Renaissance fairs—me and our original drummer were big fans of that era. That influenced the first album a lot.”
Interestingly, Thomas never got into Dungeons & Dragons, but Renaissance culture played a big role in Kamelot’s early identity.
Quick Hits: Firsts & Favorites
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First album purchased? Yngwie Malmsteen – Rising Force.
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First rock t-shirt? A Styx concert tee when he was 10.
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Most prized music collectible? Guitar picks from Michael Schenker, one of his childhood idols.
Final Thoughts
“Thanks for the support! We can’t wait to see everyone again. In the meantime, check out I Am the Empire – Live from the 013—the CD, DVD, or Blu-ray. Stay safe, and we’ll be back soon.”
Check out Kamelot’s live release and follow them online to stay up to date on their next tour announcement. Until then, keep your horns high and your playlists loud.
Stay heavy. Support the underground. Long live metal.
Want more? Follow Kamelot on [Facebook/Spotify] and catch them live this summer.
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