The dark side displays the lighter side of heavy metal

A long time ago in a recording studio far, far away, a group of Star Wars fanatics recorded their own version of the hit movie’s famous soundtrack.

The result was Galactic Empire, a heavy metal band dedicated to recreating the best the universe had to offer.

Darth Vader, or Chris Kelly as he’s known outside the mask, took time out from inter-planetary domination to chat about the group’s latest tour.

Q. So, how did the band come about?

A. A few years ago our drummer, Grant McFarland, aka Boba Fett, made a video of himself playing along to the Imperial March.

About a year ago he called me with the idea to expand on that idea by rearranging some of the most memorable themes from the Star Wars saga to be played on guitars.

Naturally my response was ‘dibs on guitar’.

Q. If metal is the dark side of the force, what type of music is the light side of the force?

A. We don’t really concern ourselves with the light side of the force, as the dark side is clearly superior. However, if I had to align any type of music with the light side – Coldplay. 

Q. What can audiences expect from your shows?

A. Our primary goal, aside from bringing our take on these iconic songs to the public, is to create an environment in which our audience feels that they can really be a part of the show.

We encourage everyone to dress up, bring their friends, family, kids, whatever – we’re all there because we’re fans of Star Wars and the music that helped make it what it is.

Q. Why do you think people still love Star Wars?

A. Without those first three films, I would argue that all of the modern sci-fi, super hero and action movies we love today would not be what they are.

George Lucas paved the way for modern special effects and created some of the most memorable characters to ever be put on screen.

And of course, for us and millions of other people, the music is just as memorable.

Q. Why does the band still love Star Wars?

A. We grew up on this stuff – I used to wear a single black glove to school in fourth grade because Luke Skywalker wore one in Return of the Jedi.

All my teachers thought I was trying to be Michael Jackson, but all I wanted to do as a child was either be a Jedi, or Batman.

I guess, in a way, I never really grew out of that.