Oly Stingel - Breakdown Of Sanity 'Feel The Bern: Swiss Metalcore Kings' Unstoppable Return'

Before Paleface Swiss, there was Breakdown of Sanity. The name itself elicits a particular kind of reverence in the metalcore world. For years, the Swiss relics felt like a cherished memory of a golden age. Then, in 2020 - amidst global pandemic chaos, they dropped 'Traces' and sent shockwaves through the scene. They were back, and whilst it wasn’t in the same capacity, trajectory and pace as before - they haven't stopped since. From yearly singles to a stunning return to the live stage in 2024, Breakdown of Sanity are reborn, now with new vocalist Kivi Brändle replacing long-time frontman Carlo Knöpfel.

Of course, prior to all this, purist metalcore was embodied by Breakdown of Sanity in the 10’s with unfaltering records Perception and Coexistence. The real ones will also swear by Mirrors and The Last Sunset, the latter stepping back into 2009. Their integration of vicious technical riffs with powerful breakdowns were ingredients that defined them; not to mention climbing the ranks all independently.

After tracking the band down for years, we finally had the pleasure of catching up with guitarist Oly Stingel to delve into the band's remarkable resurgence, the challenges of change, and the enduring power of an independent spirit.

Contrary to popular belief, the initial return of Breakdown of Sanity wasn't born out of lockdown boredom, as many might assume. Stingel clarifies, "honestly, it had very little to do with COVID. It was more about this growing urge to create and release new music again." The band had a treasure trove of musical ideas, and 'Traces' was simply the first track that felt ready for the world. While an EP was discussed, the urgency to release the single was paramount to offer some comfort during a rough time. Unbeknownst to them, this would be their inaugural annual track release tradition (bar 2022). 

Their consistent output wasn't a strategic master plan, but rather a natural evolution. "It was exactly what we figured back in 2017; we just needed a break to get some distance from our own music and refill our creative tanks," Oly explains. New influences and emotions organically led to these smaller, meaningful releases. The overwhelming response to 'Traces' also surprised the band at how it played a crucial role. "We had no idea if anyone still cared about our music," he admits, "but the feedback gave us a massive boost.

Seeing that people still listen and care after all these years (even the quiet ones) made all the difference."

Following ‘Traces’, the European stalwarts released ‘Black Smoke’ in 2021, followed by ‘Collapse’ in 2023 and then really picked up the ante in 2024 with ‘three singles, including a feature with German group Abbie Falls.

Last year, Breakdown of Sanity did the seemingly impossible, returning to the live stage - a move that stunned the metalcore world after a dramatic closure into indefinite hiatus back in 2017. Stingel describes the experience as "just as overwhelming for us as it was for the fans." The connection was immediate, the energy incredible, making it feel "like we had never left." Let’s not forget that touring was a big deal for this independent group. The return was also tinged with emotion due to former drummer Thomas Rindlisbacher’s inability to join them for health reasons. Thankfully, close friend David Stutzer stepped in, eventually becoming their official new drummer, and ensuring the planned shows went ahead. "The response from the crowd was deeply humbling, and we couldn’t have hoped for a better return," Oly shares.

The band's latest monumental shift saw Kivi Brändle stepping in as vocalist after Carlo Knöpfel's departure. The former frontman left the Swiss heavyweights in around mid-2024 after acknowledging his creative path was leading him in a new musical direction and that he wanted to fully dedicate his energy to new artistic and personal projects. Whilst the split was amicable, there was a six-month search for a new voice, ahead of their new era with 'The Hunt'.

Oly acknowledges the tension of such a change, both for the band as a creative unit but also for the fans, who are accustomed to a very specific metallic sonic orchestra. "Changing vocalists is one of the trickiest moves a band can make."  However, their confidence in Brändle was unwavering. The community's welcome was "just incredible," further proving the loyalty of their fanbase. Oly praises Kivi's immediate impact: "His voice, energy, creativity – it all clicked... It’s not easy finding someone with their own style who also respects what came before and can handle the old tracks naturally. But he did exactly that, effortlessly. It’s been a blessing."

With Breakdown of Sanity teasing a ramp-up with their 2025 single, it’s easy to suggest that the initial hiatus came down to Knöpfel, however this isn’t the case. "We were all feeling kind of burnt out creatively, and it was clear that we needed a serious pause," Oly clarifies, emphasising that most saw it as a break, not a farewell. Ironically, it was Carlo who initially proposed the comeback.

Now, with a refreshed lineup and collective vision, there's a palpable new energy roaring out of Switzerland. "We’re super motivated and already working hard on new material," Oly reveals, hinting at a lot more in the pipeline.

“I don’t want to overpromise, but right now we’re definitely thinking more along the lines of an EP (or maybe even a full album) sometime in the first half of 2026. That feels like a pretty realistic goal at this point.”

Breakdown of Sanity have always prided themselves on their independence - no labels, no marketing teams, no business-stuff - a core principle throughout their career. The main reason? "The freedom it gives us," Oly states emphatically. "No compromises, no pressure, no weird strategies or deadlines." They relish handling everything in-house, from creative direction to finances, ensuring their output authentically reflects who they are. While they're not entirely against working with PR or other partners where it makes sense – like bookers for tours – ultimate control remains paramount. Oly explains, "This band is technically 'just' a hobby (okay, a pretty intense one), and we’ve already got full plates in our day-to-day lives. We don’t really need more outside pressure."

Even branching out of Europe has been a challenge for Breakdown of Sanity. While it seems like a careful optical angle from the band to only venture to the US once to play just two shows, it was always a case of ability. In their new era they’re absolutely serious about returning to the States, but it has to be realistic. "If we get serious and realistic offers, we’d be back in the U.S. faster than you can say 'Yes, we can!'" However, current circumstances for non-US bands touring there are difficult, making a return a distant hope for now.

As for Australian fans, we’ve been ready to break down the borders of sanity for years. The dream of a tour down under remains alive, and the feeling is mutual. "That really comes down to whether we get offers that are realistic and financially manageable. If that happens, it definitely won’t be us holding things back, we’re in! We’d absolutely love to make it happen."

The future looks bright for my favourite metalcore band out there. With renewed creative vigour, a powerful new vocalist, and their unwavering independent spirit, Breakdown of Sanity are writing their most exciting chapter yet. The world is watching to see you what you do next, gentlemen. 

Words by Ricky Aarons

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