1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording ?
We have been keeping busy will all kinds of activities surrounding the release. As was the case with past releases, the album Artwork was hand painted by our Vocalist and a lot of work went into creating promo designs. There have also been several video productions, including a massive live-action video.
2.In March you have a new album coming out, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
This is always hard to answer coming from the inside. There is definitely some more variety musically (as well as lyrically) simply because all five members contributed to the album but to our ears it still sounds like Asphagor.
3.This is also your first album in 5 years, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?
The pandemic certainly delayed and otherwise affected the production process of Pyrogenesis. The inability to physically meet up for rehearsals was just the beginning. We also couldn’t keep the planned studio time as travelling and having more than 2 people in a room was complicated. We ended up recording in different locations over a longer period of time.
4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the new album and also how would you describe your progress as songwriters over the years?
The lyrics on Pyrogenesis cover a lot of different topics. They range from classic mysticism to abstract takes on humanity. For example, the title song describes the journey of fire as a concept, starting with a spark and ending in infernal destruction. The songwriting as such hasn’t changed much over the years but, of course, any music we come up with is always tied to a moment in time and a reflection of the individual writer’s state of mind.
5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Asphagor'?
The name is a take on the Iberian King Aspagur who was, allegedly, opposed to making Christianity the main doctrine in his kingdom.
6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
As with past releases, all artwork appearing on the physical records was hand-painted by our vocalist Morgoth, who is also a visual artist. It is about the abstract notion of the ascension of humanity through the rise of fire.
7.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
There have been many memorable shows since we first hit the stage. A personal favorite was the release show for The Cleansing in 2018, an absolute blast. Also, anytime we were able to play festivals during night time. In terms of presentation and production we always want to keep things fresh and create new stage art with every new album. With the Pyrogenesis shows, we will also introduce a more intricate light presentation, courtesy of our bass player P.p.lps..
8.Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?
Yes, indeed. We will kick things off, with our great release show on March 11th in Wörgl, Austria. Later, in May, we will join Dark Fortress on their farewell tour across Europe. If you get the chance, come check us out!
9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your newer music by fans of black and death metal?
Our level of exposure varies a lot. So far, we have not been featured in South America and Asia/Pacific much, which we would love to change! Where we had the most attention, in Central Europe, the majority of reactions was very positive with our latest releases.
10.Are any of the band members currently involved with any other bands or musical projects these days?
Yes, currently our Lead Guitarist Hybreos is also involved with Agrypnie and Perchta.
In the past, most of us have had ties to other bands.
11.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
There is not plan, other than continuing and writing Asphagor songs. We never follow an agenda for the creation period of new albums. What happens, happens.
12.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band members are currently listening to nowadays?
Well, Asphagor consists of 5 individuals with 5 individual tastes for music. Certainly, everyone has some love for extreme metal in different forms. Some of us also love guitar based music in general – there is something awesome to discover in almost every genre featuring guitar riffs and beyond.
13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Thank you very much for your interest! We would love to reach more people, especially in South America and Japan as there are very passionate metal scenes to be found there. We would love to play there some day.
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