We recently caught up with Mixi, the powerhouse frontwoman of Stitched Up Heart, as the band gears up to drop their third full-length album, To The Wolves, and embark on an epic six-week tour. With a raw energy that fuses fierce emotion, animalistic imagery, and relentless authenticity, Mixi dives deep into the creative journey behind the music and how far she—and the band—have come.
“A Lot and Nothing at the Same Time”
“It’s kind of a weird place,” Mixi says with a laugh. “A lot’s happening—a new record, a tour starting just two days before the album drops on September 1st—but at the same time, it’s what I’ve been doing for the last 13 years. So it feels both exciting and oddly familiar.”
The new record marks Stitched Up Heart’s third major release, though long-time fans may remember a few DIY EPs from the early days. “If you can find those, go ahead and search,” she jokes. “But I don’t recommend listening.”
The Evolution of a Sound
From self-produced beginnings to high-octane, professionally crafted records, the band’s evolution is undeniable. “It really shows how much we’ve grown in songwriting and experience. You can hear the difference.”
And the proof is in To The Wolves—an album that Mixi says is “fierce” from start to finish. With tracks like “Thunder,” “The Hunting,” “Possess Me,” and “Immortal,” it’s clear this album carries weight. “We were feeling angsty, like we were breaking out of a cage. There’s a lot more aggression on this one.”
A Howl of Inspiration
The title To The Wolves wasn’t just a cool phrase—it was deeply personal. “I have two little Pomskies—basically 12-pound wolves. I’m obsessed with them. I wanted the album to reflect that wild, primal energy.”
And it’s not just sonic intensity—there’s lyrical edge too. This is the first time Mixi has included profanity in her lyrics. “It felt weird at first. I was like, ‘Am I gonna get grounded for this?’” she laughs. “I used to write music I could show my grandma. But I told her, ‘You’re not the target demographic for this one.’”
Surprisingly, her dad is now a fan—even of the heaviest track, “Immortal.” “He shocked me! He’s a Beatles, Beach Boys kinda guy. But he loves it.”
On Stage and In the Studio
Whether it’s her dad rocking a new tattoo from a rock cruise or Mixi conquering stage fright at open mics with shaky hands, she’s come a long way. “The first time I performed, I was shaking so bad. But I pushed through, and now it's second nature.”
Songwriting comes naturally, too. “I’m a spontaneous writer. I go in knowing what emotion or message I want, usually starting with a chorus. ‘To The Wolves’ came together in about two hours.”
And though every track has its own flavor, some are extra fun to perform. “I love ‘Immortal’ because I scream my butt off on that one,” she says, adding that Marvel fans might catch a few Easter eggs in the lyrics.
Craig Mabbitt, Collaboration, and the Road Ahead
One of the album’s most exciting features is a collaboration with Craig Mabbitt of Escape The Fate. “He’s been amazing—did the music video with us, is taking us on tour... I owe him big time.”
Their upcoming tour is stacked. “Five bands—Escape The Fate headlining, then Point North, D.R.U.G.S., us, and Garza opening. It’s gonna be a wild ride.”
As for whether Craig will join them live every night? “I haven’t asked. They’re already doing so much. But who knows?”
On the State of Rock and Metal
Mixi is optimistic about where heavy music is headed. “Metal is making a comeback. I just hope we see more women on stage—and in the audience. I’d love to see a 50/50 split someday.”
She also doesn’t shy away from the real talk about live performances. “Sometimes, you get sick, your voice gives out—but the show must go on. If backing tracks help us put on the best show possible, then so be it. I’ll always give it my all.”
Final Thoughts: Heart, Grit, and Growth
From a shaky open mic in Florida to commanding stages across the country, Mixi’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance.
“If you’re not nervous, you’re probably not doing what you’re meant to be doing,” she reflects. “That butterfly feeling—that’s when you know you care.”
To The Wolves is more than an album—it’s a battle cry, a cathartic release, and a new chapter in a story still being written.
Follow Stitched Up Heart on Instagram, Facebook, or catch them on tour later this year.
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