James O'Toole

I write original alternative rock, metal and experimental music, incorporating diverse influences such as Tool, Iron Maiden, Dead Can Dance, Killing Joke and Paradise Lost. I enjoy combining atmospheric textures, powerful riffs and melody to create interesting and moving music.

I launched an alternative metal solo project called The Spiral Sequence in 2013. The debut ten track album Through Shadow Into Light received critical acclaim and radio airplay on many specialist heavy rock and metal programs. War Without End is the latest single by The Spiral Sequence, released in July 2020. I also have a second project called Saturn Ascending, for instrumental and experimental compositions.

After playing in various alternative and metal bands I now create music from my home studio in Melbourne, Australia. I write, record and mix everything myself and create all of my own artwork. Since 1996 I have been as a graphic designer, and still run my own freelance design and illustration business. From 2001 I worked as a freelance music journalist, interviewing and reviewing many of the bands I loved, which provided me with a great education in the music industry.

I love creativity in all its forms and plan to continue writing and releasing new music as often as possible, with no limits or boundaries.