NIHILL Interview

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have never heard you before?
NIHILL is a Black Metal outfit from the Netherlands. We exist solemnly for the drive to create a nauseating nightmarish atmosphere. An underworld below a most ugly material world. We are not included by any limits artisticly. We've been around for quite a couple of years but actually decided later on to release records. Currently we are working on our third record, which is the final piece of a trilogy. The first record "KRACH" is about dying, the second "GROND" is about floating in the vacuum and the final piece will be about a painful rebirth. NIHILL hasn't performed live and has no interest in doing so.

2. What is the meaning behind the band's name?
NIHILL is the great nothingness, the emptiness, the vacuum. The great denial of everything.

3. How would you describe your musical sound?
A voyage gone bad. Trancelike riffing and monotonous rhythm. Very layered. Chaotic. Either fast or very slow. Rooted in old school black metal, but also in noise and chaos.

4. How has the support been so far from HydraHead Records?
They are very nice people and fully behind us artistically.

5. Are there any other projects going on besides NihiLL?
Keep an eye out for ORDER OF THE SOURCE BELOW. Insane and technical blackmetal. Also coming up is KINGDOM OF FYR, chaotic Black Metal in a totally free form, think of an over the top version of Abruptum. Last new project is AGATHEOPHOBIK, noise with tortured screams and satanic lyrics.

6.How would you describe your musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?
We started out very traditional. Sounding a lot like the great Clandestine Blaze. Slowly moving more towards hypnotic and trancelike riffing. We tend to think more linear and soundscapelike instead of songwriting. A ship adrift on the great blackened cosmic sea. Pushing beyond the boundaries of genres. Being extreme and distorting at the same time. For the future there will be more chaos…
7. What are some of the topics that you cover in your songwriting?
The trilogy is actually about alchemy. It is about the transition between dying, being reborn, living and dying again. The metaphors and the aesthetics of Alchemy really speak to me. It's about things happening in life and translating them to a metaphysical level. The main topic in the lyrics is the cycle of life and death. All will wither and die eventually. Bearing this in mind you can ask a question like what the fuck is humanity about. What are us stupids fucks doing if it is to no extend? All is in vain and will end. It will transform into the great nothingness. These themes are accompanied by devastating music. A tunnel with fake lights were a constant storm is howling and no hope of getting out.



8. How has the feedback been so far from black metal fans worldwide?
We had some pretty cool reviews if that's what you're asking. But frankly we don't give a shit. I love certain blackmetal bands but I don't care about a so-called scene. it's every man for himself out there.



9. What are some bands or music styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?
We listen varied types of music: Blackmetal 1990-1994 era from Norway of course, some newer 'classic' bands like Craft,Katharsis, Funeral Goat. Some atmospheric and drone outfits out there like DRAKH or VOMIR are nice. Also some violent power electronics like WHITEHOUSE or SUTCLIFFE JUGEND. And classical stuff like: Gorecki, Messiaen and even Bartok. As I said we are not included by any limits and when you hear NIHILL you will discover that.



10. What role does Satanism or Occultism play in the music, and what forms of occultism do you find the most interesting?
First of we are very attracted to the esthetics of occultism, Christianity and Satanism. We are not hardcore worshipers if that's what you're after. Interests like Chaos Gnostics, Schoppenhauer, Camus, philosophy are more personal and are not directly reflected in the music. But they help in creating the atmosphere and chaos we're after.



11. What are the plans for 2010?
To record the last bits of "VERDONKERMAAN" the final part of the trilogy. We've also been fucking around with mixing and mastering some old rehearsal tapes.

12. What are some of your interests outside of music?
Creating Art, gathering knowledge, drinking and hiking in the woods of the north…



13. Any final words or thoughts?
Keep an eye open for the final piece of the NIHILL trilogy. VERDONKERMAAN is coming…

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Averse Sefira Interview

1. Can you update us with what is going on with Averse Sefira these days?




Wrath: We're in a quieter mode at the moment. It seems like proper large-scale touring is no longer possible on Sanguine's account, but we will appear with Order From Chaos here in Texas next week. We'll also headline the Northwestern Black Circle Fest in Portland, Oregon, at the end of May.




2. I have noticed that you spell Sefira alot different than most occult books, where did you get the idea to spell the name differently?




W: In the book we use, it is spelled “Sefira”. It felt right from the start. As I've said many times before, the name picked us. We did not question it.




3. What are some of the best shows that you have played so far and what are some bands that you enjoyed playing with the most?




W: Probably our first tour in Brazil was one of the best ever. And Watain and Immolation were among the best bands with whom we toured.




4. How would you describe the musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?




W: It has become more esoteric and conceptually abstract, though I feel that musically it has become more actualized and powerful as we've progressed.




5. When can we expect the next album?




W: It's still too early in the process to tell.




6. I noticed over the years you have been on many different labels, out of all the labels that you have with which one do you feel did the most to support the music?




W: Candlelight, absolutely. They really put us in front of people in a concerted fashion.




7. What direction do you see the lyrics heading into on the next album?




W: Again, still too early to discuss it. Sorry to be difficult.




8. I noticed that in your home state of Texas there is also Absu, Black Funeral and Dagon that touch on more deeper occult topics than most U.S bands what is it out there that makes bands take the occult more seriously compared to other U.S states where the bands are more into partying or writing the typical Fuck Jesus lyrics?




W: I think part of it is that Texas has a lot of mythology all its own, and growing up here will shape the minds of those who seek. Michael Ford of Black Funeral is from the Midwest, so that might be a coincidence. There are plenty of bands around here who have tried their hand at the “fuck Jesus while partying” lyrics, but thankfully they don't last.




9. What are some bands or music styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?




W: Old death metal, speed metal, and the Scandinavian black metal outbreak have all played a role. I still listen to all of that regularly. The latest Immolation album, the debut from Triptykon, and Voivod's back catalog are all warring in my head at the moment.




10. Out of all the albums that you have put out so far which one are you the most satisfied with?




W: It's a toss-up between “Tetragrammatical Astygmata” and “Advent Parallax”. They were exactly what we intended – keys to the other side.




11. How has your newer material been received so far by metal fans worldwide?




W: It has been even better than I expected, actually. Our music does not serve any sort of instant gratification, so it takes the better part of a year for a new album to get a proper foothold. Then there's an outpouring of accolades from fans from all over the world. “Advent Parallax” was critically acclaimed from the start, but it took the audience a little longer to embrace it. We don't mind; that's simply the nature of the beast.




12. What are some forms of Occultism and Satanism that you find the most interesting and what are some occult authors or orders that have influenced your views?




W: “Works of Darkness” and “Baneful Magick” by Koetting are intriguing and useful. I tend to draw upon multiple sources for inspiration and guidance down the path.




13. Are any off the band members currently involved with other projects these days?




W: Yes, though it is completely unrelated to Averse Sefira or black metal in general, so that's all I'll say here. A simple search will reveal it.




14. What are some of your interests outside of music?




W: I don't have all that many, to be honest. When I'm not playing music, I listen to music and write about music. It's all-consuming and I like it that way.




15. Any final words or thoughts?




W: Thanks for the interview.

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Bleeding Fist Interview

1. Can you update us with what is going on with Bleeding Fist these days?



1.These days we are working hard on new hymns for the upcoming opus and preparing all for the next ritual in Germany with the bestial black death legends Proclamation on the »Return of the Bestial Vomit« fest which will be held in Oberhausen (Helvete club). Beside all we are preparing for the promotion of the newer mini cd entitled Macabrum Bestia Ex Abyssus which will be released in April on Moribund Records.

2. What is the meaning behind the band's name?

We always wanted to focus on a direct name and not on a random demon name which is such a cool thing nowadays in black metal but not only. If you look back into the years the band names especially in black metal were direct names with no philosophy behind them. This is the exact aura we want to keep with Bleeding Fist.

3. How has the support been from Moribund Records so far?

Moribund is a legendary label in every side with a dedicated and professional crew and a true approach on music and his artists. Nothing more to say.

4. I noticed the music gets heavier with each release, how would you describe the musical progress over the years?

We don't want to be repetitive and recording every release with the same riffs and rhythms like lots of »legends« nowadays so we always claim and try to focus on how evolve our sound into more gruesome, morbid and extreme feeling.

5. How has the music been received so far by fans of extreme music worldwide?

The reaction of fans and especially of worldwide reviewers was more then satisfied and with a good dose of criticism.

6. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?

The lyrical side of the album cannot be explained in few words as the whole process behind Bestial Kruzifix666ion is well kept into its music so I`d rather advise everything who want to discover this spectrum of Bleeding Fist to get the album and drown into the deepest abyss...

7. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far, and how would you describe your stage performance?

Each our ritual is an indelible sign in Bleeding Fist's history as we take the very each gig as a sacred monument to work on so every performance is for the audience an exclusive ceremony. Bleeding Fist's musical incantation is supported by extreme visual attacks with fire, barbed wire, blood, swine heads but... to understand what is all about visit one of our concerts.

8. Are there any plans for a U.S tour?

There are plans and future options but for now its all better to kept buried.

9. Are there any other music projects going on besides Bleeding Fist?

There are some project in the play but for now we rather prefer to focus on Bleeding Fist

10. What are some bands or music styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?

Bleeding Fist is influenced by the old school aura of black metal and everything that fire its flame.

11. What role does Satanism or Occultism play in the music?
There's a gross part of occultism that play role in Bleeding Fist and the members behind its name but for now we want to keep all for ourself's.

12. What are some of your interests outside of music?

We can talk about this in a non-Bleeding Fist interview.

13. Any final words or thoughts?

All hails all the individuals and hordes that support Bleeding Fist. If you want to get more new around everything check HYPERLINK "http://www.bleeding-fist.com" www.bleeding-fist.com or www.myspace.com/bleedingfist.

Vinterriket Interview

1. Can you update with what is going on with Vinterriket these days?

Hello. Thank you for the interview. There is not much going on these days. The latest album “Horizontmelancholie” is out since spring 2009 and I am currently preparing the upcoming album. However, the upcoming album will not be released before the end of 2010/early 2011.

2. You have done both black metal and ambient albums under this name, which one of the two styles do you prefer doing and how would you compare both of them?

Approximately 80 % of all music (Vinterriket) could be classified as dark ambient. Some of the older stuff is in the BM vein. Sometimes it is good to do a mix of both styles. I have to be in the right mood to do that. Mainly Vinterriket is dark ambient, however on the latest record Vinterriket got a more Dark Neofolk-like touch because of the acoustic guitars.

3. What is the meaning behind the band's name?

Vinterriket is Norwegian/Swedish and means “The Winterrealm”.

4. You have participated in alot of projects over the years, which ones are you doing these days and which one would you consider as your main project?

Currently I am running the following projects. All of them are “main” I would say.
Vinterriket (Dark Ambient / BM/ Neofolk)
Atomtrakt (Martial & Cold Industrial)
Nebelkorona (“Romantic”Ambient/Neofolk)
Sturmpercht (Alpine Folk)
Fräkmündt (Swiss Ur-Folk)
Battle Dagorath (BM)
Lufschutzkerker (my audio mastering business)
DÂNNÂGÔISCHD (Forest Folk)

5. How has your music been received so far by both black metal and ambient fans worldwide?

Vinterriket is well known in the ambient & BM scene I would say. However, I do not care that much about “scenes”. If people like the music (regardless to which scene they belong to) I am honored, if not, I do not care

6. What direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?

The new album will start where “Horizontmelancholie” ended: Dark Ambient mixed with Neofolk. However, in the future there might be an album with a different style… I do  not know. I just do what I feel to do. I.e. in the future there might be again a BM record or something completely different.

7. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?

I am listening to all kinds of music. As long as the music is interesting, dark, original and melancholic. Those parameters need to be fulfilled. I mean, everybody gets influenced by a lot of things: books, films, memories, friends, whatever. My main source of inspiration for Vinterriket is the dark side of nature I would say.

8. Out off all the albums that you have recorded so far which one are you the most satisfied with?

I am satisfied with all of them. However, “Horizontmelancholie” is probably the best album so far

9. How would you describe the lyrical content of your black metal works?

A reflection of the dark side of nature and personal feelings

10. Do you have any interest in Paganism or Occultism?

No. Religion = stupid. All kinds of religions, whether it is Christianity or Satanism or whatever: it is stupid and childish. Religion is only for weak people, who are not able to deal with themselves.

11. What are some of your interests outside of music?

Music and nature!

12. Any final words or thoughts?

Thanks for the interview

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1349 Interview

1. Can you update us with what is going on with 1349 these days?

Seidemann: Right now we are rehearsing for the upcoming tour in the US with Cannibal Corpse as well as some scattered gigs.
There is also the upcoming release of our 5th album DEMONOIR!

> 2. How has the response been so far for the new material?
S: Those who have heard DEMONOIR have been very enthusiastic about it - as they should be since this is 1349 at its very best!

> 3. I have seen you play the U.S before but it was with an American drummer instead of Frost, will Frost be playing on the upcoming tour?
S: Frost will play the upcoming tour with us as well as the festivals etc this summer. We have used Tony Laureano on our previous tours and he is also a kickass drummer.


> 4. How would you describe the lyrical content of the new material?
S: Dark and grim yet not devoid of poetical beauty. It is all in the ear of the beholder... or listener in this case.

> 5. How has the support been so far by Candlelight Records?
S: We are signed to indie productions in Norway now so whatever Candlelight feels in no longer any concern of mine, something I personally am eternally grateful for.


> 6. What are some of the best shows that you have played so far?
S: There has been a lot of good shows, playing with Celtic Frost was great, playing with Carcass was great, so I am hard pressed to find just one show that stands out.

> 7. How would you compare the American audiences to the other countries that you have played so far?
S: The american crowds are great, a lot of die-hards there. You guys kick ass!

> 8. When do you plan on recording the next album and what direction do you see the music heading into?
S: The new 1349 album will be out on the 26-27th of April and will head into even more extreme territory than we have ever done before. Prepare to be astounded, bedazzled and otherwise stupefied!

> 9. Out off all the albums that you have recorded so far which one are you the most satisfied with?
S: Im happy with all of them but at the moment my uttermost satisfaction lies with DEMONOIR.

> 10. What are some bands or music styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?
S: Seeing how 1349 consists of 4 individuals with wildly differing tastes and expressions it is hard for me to pinpoint the influences of the others. Prior to this album I was listening to nothing but jazz from the 40s and 50s and tuvan throatsinging, yet it sounds nothing at all like that. These days the new NILE and the new BEHEMOTH is spinning a lot on my Ipod as well as a lot of ROOT(czech)

> 11. Are there any other projects going on these days besides 1349?
S: there are always things to do, this is however a 1349 interview so i dont feel the need to talk about anything else.
I could ramble on about Pantheon I, Den Saakaldte, Tyrann, Dead Trooper, Satyricon and all the other bands that people from 1349 are in but it seems like a waste of the readers time.
>
12. What role does Satanism or Occultism play in the music?
S: In the music itself these things can only be vaguely felt in the overall mood, lyrically you can read more into it. The tritones and disharmonies are everywhere though, making this music officially satanic by ancient christian music rules.


> 13. What are some of your interests outside of music?
S: There is not much besides music, except literature, movies, alcohol and video games.


> 14. Any final words or thoughts?
S: Thank you for the interview. Hope to see y'all on tour in the states!

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Hel Interview

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that are not familiar with you?

Hel is a Pagan Metal Band from Germany formed in 1994. We released two demos in 1995 and 1997, the debut album "Orloeg" was released in 1999. "Falland Vörandi" (2005), "Tristheim" (2007). So we're really one of the first bands that dealt with pagan themes.

2. What is going on with Hel these days?

We're currently recording a new album. We already tracked drums and are tracking bass guitar at the moment. Drums are pounding and the bass ground shaking. For the first time, we pre-produced this album. So song wise all is set, and now we're just recording it seriously. Maybe we're done with it in a few months. We always take a lot of time for everything.

3. How would you describe your musical sound?

We decided to call it "Pagan Midgard Art". We have elements of heavy metal, black metal, folk and symphonic music.

4. I noticed that you change your sound with each album, how would you describe your musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?

Yeah, we're always excited to try new things and don't want to repeat ourselves. "Falland Vörandi" was pretty epic and symphonic with lots of elements settled around the story of the Death of Balder. We couldn't repeat that so we did the opposite with "Tristheim" and release a very minimalistic and dark acoustic album. For the new one we will show our roots a bit more, and that is traditional metal. But of course just implemented in our sound. There will also be a lot of different tracks and some acoustic parts here and there. It's gonna be great :)

5. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?

The lyrics are rooted in northern mythology and sometimes they are also personal. On "Falland Vörandi" Valdr wrote the lyrics as a concept album about "The Death of Balder" which is a story from the Edda. We did the music after the lyrics on that one. "Tristheim" was full of personal experiences and had not really a mythological context.

6. Out off all the albums that you have recorded so far which one are you the most satisfied with?

I think that's a tough question for all musicians, but I'd say "Falland Vörandi", because it was sooo much work. We put a lot of work in every detail until we were fully satisfied. But I guess when the new album is done then I will name this.

7. How has the reception been to your music so far by pagan viking/black metal fans worldwide?

Well, allthough we're a part of the viking scene, we don't really feel we belong to this new wave of pagan bands. We rather see us in the tradition of the "real" pagan bands like Bathory. When we played our only live concert at the Ragnarök Festival in Lichtenfels 2007 we were surprised that some people from all over europe went there just because of us. They talked to us after the show, and it was mainly older people. Not those 17 - 18 year old guys that like to raise their horns and sing along to stories about strong viking warriors. ;) So I think our fanbase contains of fans at our age mainly. But we also got a lot of good comments on our acoustic album "Tristheim" from all over the world. I think the people that take the time and see a bit deeper like Hel.

8. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?

All of us are fans of the epic Bathory albums like "Hammerheart" and "Blood on ice". But we're listening to a lot of different music, from hardrock to progressive rock to symphonic black metal. At the moment I'm pretty much into "Whitesnake". We also like stuff like "Saybia" and "Katatonia". We even covered a Katatonia song (Cold Ways) for a tribute called "December Songs". So there's a lot of stuff we like and maybe even more we dislike ;)


9. What role does Asaturu/Norse religion play in the music and do you have any interest in any other forms of Paganism?

We don't like the idea of turning Paganism into a religion, because every form of religion means regulations, and that's a thing that we don't want to follow.
Hard for me to describe in English... I rather learn from what's written down in the Edda, and in the end its only things that will come across in your daily life in the end. Weekness of man, betrayal, trust... you name it. So the role it has for me is more like when talking to wise people and learn stuff for your life, but not live by it as a religion.

10. When can we expect the next album?

I would guess we're done within the next 5 months. If we find a new label in that time it could see the light of day in late 2010, but don't take my word for it ;)
We're a slow releasing band, so no hurry for us. What counts is a good result.

11. What are some of your interests outside of music?

Valdr handcrafts a lot of jewelry and ornaments wood and all kind of viking stuff. He's really awesome at doing it, and you will see some of his works in the next bandphotos maybe. My brother Hamar is a photographer and I am a sound engineer, so that's why I take care of the recording, mixing and mastering.
You can visit my studio at http://www.kalthallen.de

12. Any final words or thoughts?

Thank you for this interview! We have a very nice spring day today, and I will go for a walk in the woods with my dog in a few hours and practice singing there. What more can you wish for in life?
Don't forget to visit us at http://www.myspace.com/bandhel or http://www.pagan-midgard-art.de1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that are not familiar with you?

Trokle Interview

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have never heard of you before?
1.Trokle started in 2007 as a solo project. I (Alf Petter) recorded guitar riffs and came up with a lot of ideas, and that was the beginning of the demo “Trolltjern”. I realized after some time that I needed some help with vocals and drums. Mr. Dementia joined on vocals, and Sigurd Aure on drums. Sigurd left the band in 2009.

2. How would you describe your musical sound?
2.It’s difficult to place us in a genre, because I find inspiration from both death and black metal. I would say a combination of these genres with a twist of rock n roll!

3. What is the meaning behind the band's name?
3.Trokle is an old Norwegian word that means to put different parts into a complete unit. That’s what music is all about, isn’t it?


4. Have you thought about adding any other members so you could do live shows, or do you want to remain a studio band?
4.Now we want to get enough members to a full band, so that we can be able to do live shows. We already have potential members. I think this will take us to a whole new level, and a positive experience.

5. Have you received any label interest yet, and if you are looking for a record label what kind do you think would suit the band ?
5.I think a record company who is serious and willing to give an untraditional black/death metal band a chance is the thing for us!

6. How would you describe your musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the band heading into on future releases?
6.As I said in the beginning of this interview, it all started as a solo project. I believe that Trokle can be an exciting live and studio band if we get the chance. I think we can add something different into the market. We are working hard, and I think that one day our chance will come! We have more than enough material to publish a full-length if someone is interested.

7. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?
7.Our lyrics are about war, history, fantasy, horror and so on. We write about whatever comes to mind!

8. How has your music been received so far by black metal fans worldwide?
8.We have received many positive responses from people. They often say that they think we have found our special sound, and they like it. We want to thank everyone who supports us, it means a lot!

9. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?
9.I find inspiration in both black and death metal. I also is a huge fan of classic heavy metal.
I listen to for example Immortal, Gehenna, Limbonic Art, Obtained enslavement, Dismal euphony, Emperor and so on. My list is long, but these are among my favorites.

10. Does Satanism or Occultism play any role in the music?
10.No these things don’t mean anything for us. It’s more than enough darkness in the real world.

11. Outside of music what are some of your interests?
11.Besides music, I like hiking and fishing. We live in a beautiful country with an impressive nature.


12. Any final words or thoughts?
12.I want to thank you for showing interest in us, and giving us the chance to show more people who we are. Visit our profile on myspace to check out our material! Rock on!

https://www.reverbnation.com/trokle

Adorior Interview

1. Can you update us with Adorior these days?

Ans 1. The current line up is,

Melissa - Vocals
Shrapnel - Guitar
D.Molestor - Drums
Black Venom - Guitar
C. Nunravager - Bass

We have just been working on the next album for some years now, done some shows and got settled into the direction we wanted to take the music.
Now were are at the point were everything is coming together and we are preparing to ejaculate ultra violence.


2. When can we expect new material?


Ans 2. We have just recorded two tracks for a split 12" with Sweden's Terrorama, that will be released by Nuclear War Now! Productions some time in the coming months. Our side contains the new track "Gutters Of Cum" and a cover of the track 10,000 Days of Bloodshed by Blessed Death.
Nearly all of the next album written, and actually there is only one more track to write but that still may take some time as we don't just knock shit out for the sake of it, every track has to be crushing!
We had hoped to record it by the end of 2010 but we will have to see what happens, we spend a lot of time working on the songs, fine tuning them. So it may take until next year before we are totally satisfied with everything and want to record.
The next Adorior album will be called "Love Of The Paedophile"


3. What is the meaning behind the bands name?

Ans 3. Adorior means " Attack!" in Latin.


4. I noticed in the past 12 years there has only been two albums, what do you usually do during those hiatus?

Ans 4. Mostly we got drunk and took drugs and behaved like metal cunts.
We also did a split 12" with Witchmaster from Poland during that time.
It also takes us a long time to do anything because we spend such a long time writing songs, an Adorior record is written over a period of years and not months like many bands.
We are in no hurry to make records, time is irrelevant, only the purity of strength, violence and heaviness we are aiming to achieve matters.
So we concentrate only on making the best record we can and dedicate a lot of time to it.


5. How would you describe your live performance and what are some of the best shows that you have played so far?

Ans 5. Our shows have always very drunk chaotic and violent!
We have done shows with Nifelheim, Destroyer 666, Watain, Zemial, Urn, Obscurity, Gospel Of The Horns, Arkhon Infaustus, Enthroned, Inquisition, Desaster and others.
We also played at a few festivals.
Normally we are too drunk to play well, but we always put on a very violent show. The audiences we normally get are the drunken violent lunatics, so we are on the same level and just create chaos!

6. Are there any plans for a U.S tour?

There are no plans for any tours of any kind.
We have no plans to ever play live again.
But who knows.


7. I noticed that your last album was released on Agonia Records and the one before that was released on Head Not Found, how would you compare these 2 labels to each other?

They both turned out to be bad labels in different ways.
Head Not Found records was just fucked up, and the bigger label that owned it, Voices Of Wonder. They are just a straight up rip off.
Agonia records didn't do a proper job of promotion for our last album "Author Of Incest" and lied so much about everything that it was impossible to continue with that label.
We left Agonia records a couple of years ago, our next album should be released by I Hate records from Sweden.
We are currently working out final details of the contract now.


8. What would you describe your musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the band heading into on future releases?

Ans 8. Our first record didn't sound anything like it should have, this was down to our inexperience in the studio and on just about every other level too.
We learned a lot from that and added a second guitarist and started to spend much longer on the song writing after that.
Our true direction fully developed in the lead up to "Author Of Incest" and we had a very focused idea of what we wanted to do.
We consider originality to be an important element of what we do and we have tried to develop our own style, that takes time but I believe we have succeeded.
The concept is simple, we want to play the most violent, hard and relentless metal we can, but at the same time keep the riffs very catchy and powerful. while still creating an obscure and unsettling atmosphere.
This concept will continue until the end, we just look for new ways to achieve it.
This time I have written most of the new album on the Guitar instead of on the Bass as I did in the past, so that effects the style of band.
So the music on the next album will feel like a change from "Author Of Incest", but it will not be a big one.
All the high speed and violent shit is still there, but for the new stuff we have added an extra dose of crushing heaviness and big powerful riffs.
Our style will always develop as we are pushing our idea until the end.
But one thing is guaranteed, we only change in ways to become more violent, never less!
Our next album will be like an army of tanks crushing a children's hospital!


9. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?

Ans 9. A lot of twisted and disturbing ideas brought together to describe the filth of humanity, the futility of existence, the essence of insanity. and the power of metal!


10. How has your material been received so far by extreme metal bands worldwide?

Ans 10. It is hard to know, both our previous labels failed to do any proper promotion and we are not the kind of band that really bothers with any self promotion so we have remained very underground over the years. We do seem to have a decent amount of support out there that seems to come from the true scum of the underground, so our music seems to find its way to the right people, but even in the underground I don't think we are all that well known.
I think our next album will receive better promotion and distribution so maybe that will change.
In the end it doesn't matter Adorior isn't supposed to appeal to everyone, just those that wallow in slime!


11. What are some band or musical styles that have influenced the music and what are you listening to nowadays?

Ans 11. The styles that have mostly influences us are the early Death and Black metal from the 80s and the extreme Death thrash bands along with some Heavy metal and Doom influences.We combine many elements from all the different styles, and try to take the purest parts of the idea and bring them together to make something that is grotesque merciless and absolutely metal.
Bands such as Voivod, Sodom, Massacra.,Autopsy, Protector, Slayer, Beherit, Manowar, Nasty Savage, Venom, Razor, CF and many others have had an influence, along with a lot of the bands from the old Brazilian scene. but really it is all great music that influences us.
We try to not be too directly influenced buy any bands, and most of the influence we carry from other bands is in the way that they used the energy of the music to create something very powerful!
I still listen to all the same stuff I always have, but I am mostly listening to early Death Thrash stuff at the moment.


12. I know from a past interview from the 90's one of your band members was writing a book about the many different types of Satanism, what forms of Satanism or Occultism does the band follow nowadays?

Ans 12. We follow nothing, No gods,No spirits or supernatural childish ideas.
Adorior is for the real force of evil that is delivered from the actions of man!


13. What are some of your interests outside of music?

Ans 13. Drugs, Alcohol and Women, those and Metal are the only things that I concern myself with.


14. Any final words or thoughts of destruction?

Ans 14. Cheers for the interview!
Hails to those that refuse to deviate from the purity of violence!
Till The Death!

C. Nunravager.

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RavenFrost Interview

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have
never heard you before?
Ravenfrost is a one man black metal project from Germany. I started
it in the winter of 2006. I had the dream to create my own songs for
some years and it was 2006 that I got the necessary equipment.
So far things are going well, my first demo is out and sells pretty
good and I'm working on a new cd for Victory By Fire Records.

2. How would you describe your musical sound?
It's definitely not limited to one genre. It's a mixture of black
metal, ambient and a little bit of doom and old school death metal.
It's important for me to use different influences and getting a
special sound. That's why I also use clean guitars and some keys here
and there.

3. What is the meaning behind the band's name?
Well, the name is derived from an a role-playing game. I found it to
be perfectly fitting, because it consists of two words and combines
two meanings. The raven stands for a dark and mystical side and a
fascination for death, which is the ambient side of the music. And
frost stands for the raw and brutal element which is black metal.

4. What releases have you put out so far?
Two demos, which can only be downloaded (Demo 2007 and Promo 2009)
and one physical release which is entitled "Ein Streifzug Am Abgrund
Der Seele" (which means "a foray to the abyss of the soul"). This
demo is limited to 100 pieces and can be ordered via Gottesrache
Records. I am currently working on a new cd which will be out on
Victory By Fire Records, probably in early summer.

5. How did you get in contact with Victory By Fire Records and how
has the support been so far?
I befriended the parent label Ziekte.NL on MySpace and they told me
that they liked a song of mine. When my demo came out, I contacted
the owner. He also owns Victory By Fire which is a label exclusively
for black metal and offered me a release there. The support has been
great and he is a very nice guy. Although the label is growing fast
and has a lot of great bands, he is always open for questions and
cares about the artists. It was a good choice for the release!

6. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?
At first it was very much about blasphemy and the denial of
christianity. That is still an important issue but as the music
evolved from raw black metal to a more complex and individual style,
the lyrics got more subtle and describe the inner abyss that we call
our soul. The new cd will be called "Schatten Der Vergänglichkeit"
(shadows of vanity) and will be dealing with loneliness, emptiness
and the fear of death which are immanent in humanity.

7. How would you describe your musical progress over the years and
what direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?
As I said, in the beginning I just made raw black metal with some
keyboards. I'm constantly trying to create my own style of dark and
sickening art and push the boundaries of ambient black metal. So, the
future direction will be ambient black metal with a lot of influences
always trying to create a special atmosphere of darkness.

8. Do you have any other projects besides this band and if so who are
they and what kind of music do they play?
I also play guitar in a melodic death metal band called Megaera.
There is also a german black metal band with that name but there is
no connection to them. Death metal is one of my favorite musical
influences and we play a lot of great live gigs which is not possible
with Ravenfrost (at least not yet).

9. What are some bands or music styles that have influenced your
music and what are you listening to nowadays?
Bands who have influenced me are Marduk, Carpathian Forest, Burzum,
Striborg and lots of others. I also listen to a lot of Shining,
Limbonic Art, old Bethlehem and Xasthur.

10. Out of all the releases that you have put out so far which one
are you the most satisfied with?
I am most satisfied with the current demo although I think that the
next one will be even better because the recording is more
professional and the songs are more complex.

11. I know with some of your songs they are in German and you have
some songs in English, which language do you prefer to sing or write
in?
I write the most songs in English and also get ideas from english
lyrics or books. But German can sound very harsh and evil and
sometimes you can only express things in your mother tongue.
But generally I prefer English although I chose a german title again
for the next release.

12. Does Paganism, Satanism, or Occultism play any role in the music?
Well, I think it's wrong to devote oneself completly to one popular
belief. I'm influenced by anti-christian views and personally think
that Christianity is complete bullshit because it is based on false
moralility and believing in some invisible being without any evidence
is nothing that an intelligent person should do. But I have my own
point of views and like some ideas of modern Satanism. Occultism does
not matter to me. And Paganism...well, there are interesting pagan
cultures but you should not follow any so called Gods, so I do not
want to believe in any god, no matter what he is called.

13. How has your music been received so far by black metal fans
worldwide?
Pretty well. My first physical release has been out for 3 months now
and I think there is a growing number of listeners. I try to get more
and more attention for Ravenfrost. I am currently searching for
labels for a release outside of Europe, like in the U.S. or maybe
Asia.

14. I have read somewhere that the band is Anti Nazi but I can hear
some Burzum in the music, are you a fan of his music and not his
political views or is it just a coincidence that you have some
similarities?
This is an important issue. I am against any forms of racism and
think that politics do not belong in music. I also do not befriend
NSBM-bands and do not support any label that is into right-wing black
metal.
I think Vikernes can be considered as the father of one man black
metal bands. He created some amazing songs and had so much influence
on the developement of so called ambient black metal. "Filosofem" is
one of the greates albums ever, if you ask me!
I am definitely not a fan of the political views he later had. Being
a racist is something for stupid people who are willing to follow a
stupid ideology someone else has created. And that can never fit to
black metal. The point is that I don't think he was that way when he
created albums like Filosofem and even if he was, he never had any
political lyrics. That's what matters to me. I would never listen to
black metal with racist lyrics, even if the music was great (in most
cases the music is uninspired crap anyways).

15. What are some of your interests outside of music?
Some of my other interests are reading, especially about philosophy,
good movies and of course spending time with my girlfriend who
inspires me and supports Ravenfrost whenever she can. But my life is
pretty much all about metal, hehe.

16. Any final words or thoughts?
Support your local Black Metal Underground. Get my demo on my
homepage and watch out for the new cd. Ravenfrost has just started to
spread the plague! Thanks for the interview and the review!

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RavenFrost/Ein Streifzug Am Abgrund Der Seele/Victory By Fire Records/2009 CD REVIEW

RavenFrost are a band from Germany that plays a raw form of black metal with some doom influences mixed with dark ambient and this is a review of their 2009 album "Ein Streifzug Am Abgrund Der Seelee" which was released on Victory By Fire Records.

Drums are mostly mid paced beats with some blast beats mixed in to give the music a perfect balance while the bass playing has a very dark tone and utilizes a lot of fast riffing. Keyboards when they are utilized sound very depressing and bring an ambient feel to the music which seems to be heavily influenced by the pioneers of black metal.

Rhythm guitars use a lot of mid paced riffs that sound very dark and primal with some tremolo picking on the faster songs that has a lot of mid 90's to early 200's underground European black metal influences mixed in with a lot of influences from doom metal in the slower material as well as a small amount of death metal, guitar leads when they are utilized sound very melodic as well as depressive.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams mixed with some screeches as well as deep growling that's has a very heavy death metal influence to it as well as some occasional clean vocals, while the lyrics which are written in a mixture of German and English seem to cover a Luciferian approach to anti Christianity, as for the production it sounds very professional without sacrificing the raw black metal approach.

In my opinion this is a very good band and I see a lot of potential in their and I am looking forward to hearing their older as well as newer material. STANDOUT TRACKS INCLUDE "Aurora Lucferus" "Der Eiskatle Hauch Der Leeie" "To End Their Reign Of Lies" "Kenophobia" and "Risen From The Slaves". RECOMMENDED BUY

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Endstille Interview

1. Can you update us with is going on with the band these days?
We were searching for a new vocaslist for nearly half a year. During that
time we worked live together guestvocalist. Thanks by the way to Mannevond
of Koldbrann who played the festivals with us and Lugubrem of Mordskog who
sang for us at the European Tour. But finaly Zingultus joined the band now
as our new vocalist. You might already now this guy from bands like
Nagelfar, Graupel or Graven.

2. When can we expect new material?
At the moment we're busy with writing new songs. Probably we'll enter the
studio in March or April. So if everything's going well, you can expect a
new CD at the end of summer or beginning of autumn 2010.

3. You have been around for almost 2 decades now, what is it that keeps
you going after all these years?
There still so many Endstille-songs which are not written yet. We still
have a lot of ideas for a lot of new material. So the music itself is
always what keeps you going on.

4. Everybody knows about your interest in the first 2 world wars, but what
are your views on the wars that have followed that including the current
wars?
Of course war is always an interesting subject and the wars which took
place after the world wars are also quite attractive. But I think the
world wars had been something special. I think the second world war had
been the cruelest period ever. So many unbelievable things happened during
that war and it had been a war which the world never had seen before and
until now never saw again.
Especially as a German band these wars are more interesting for us,
because it still has an effect on us and the country where we're living
in. So of course wars like for example Vietnam are fascinating too, but
maybe that is an topic for an U.S.-band.

5. What are some of the best shows so far and how would you describe your
live performance?
I'm looking back to a lot of good concerts. The shows at the Wacken or
Party San are always something special. But also the club-concerts are
always great. I think there is always something special about every
concert.
But how should I describe our live performance? Good question... maybe it
fits when I say, that we're a very pure and honest band on stage without
any histrionics or stuff like that. Just pure and aggressive Black Metal.

6. Are there any plans for a U.S tour?
There're no concrete plans at the moment. But if we get a fitting
opportunity for a tour when we released the new album, we would like to go
on tour in the U.S.
We'll see what happens... hopefully we can make it...

7. How was the last album received by black metal fans worldwide?
We got good critics for that album. I also heard very often that the
people liked it. So we're satisfied with the reactions on that album. It
also seems that the people in the U.S. recognized us with that album a bit
more.

8. Out off all the albums that you have recorded so far, which one are
you the most satisfied with?
I'm satisfied with each album. Each album was perfect for us when we
released it. I still like to listen to all of them. Of course as a
musician you always say that the newest is the best one. But in retrospect
I like them all.

8. How would you describe your musical progress over the years and what
direction do you see the band heading into on future releases?
We always worked on our own style of playing Black Metal. We never copied
any other band. So that's what we'll do in future too.
I think their had been many progresses, for example the sound or the
songwriting. In Germany we say „Stagnation means death“, so there should
always be progresses.
Maybe on the next album you'll find some more Thrash Metal elements.

9. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music
and what are you listening to nowadays?
Of course the old German thrash bands like Sodom, Kreator or Destruction
influenced us a lot. Also the old school Death Metal bands and of course
the early Black Metal bands.
I'm listening to a lot of different styles of music, from Black Metal to
Crust Core/ Punk. I like to listen to everything I want to...

10. I know the band is very anti religious but do you have any interest in
Occultism or Satanism?
I like the satanic philosophies a lot. I used to read much about these
topics. But Endstille is absolutely no spiritual band. Just personally I'm
interested in these subjects.

11. What are some of your interests outside of music?
For sure history, but I guess you knew that before.
I'm also interested in Art. I don't have any favourite painter or era I
prefer. I also draw by my own a lot. It's one of my hobbies.

12. Any final words or thoughts of destruction?
FUCK HELL!!! und gute Nacht.

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Wolfthorn Interview

1.Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have never heard you before?



Ave! Wolfthorn started as my solo project in early 2001. Between 2001 and 2004 I’ve recorded a couple of demo tapes using the help of a session guitarist and two full-length albums more or less on my own. During that period of time I’ve been cooperating with labels such as Arcane Throne Productions, Total Holocaust Records, N:C:U / Nachtgnosis and Behemoth Productions. The more detailed information concerning the releases’ titles, dates and so on is available on our Myspace presentation as well as from the other internet sources such as Metal Archives for instance. In early 2006 I’ve recruited a full line-up primary in order to perform my music on stage. However, it worked well enough to continue Wolfthorn as a “real” band. The result of this decision was a split 12” EP with Erhabenheit(Ger) released through Raging Bloodlust Records on vinyl and Tanhu Records on a tape in 2008.



2. What is going on with the band nowadays?



We’ve kicked out our old drummer straight after the release of the split EP, then replaced the bassist and recorded our third full-length opus called “Towards Ipsissimus”, which is going to be released through Art of Propaganda / Obscure Abhorrence Productions in March. Meanwhile we’ve got a new bassist again as well as a second guitarist. The current line-up consists of Aer(guitar), Eternal(drums), OldmaN(bass), Abortio(guitar) and me taking care for the vocals, lyrics and the songwriting.



3.How would you describe your musical sound?



Black Metal. This is the only description which fits our sound perfectly. I know of course that the term “Black Metal” could mean a shitload of completely different styles, yet I don’t really care how someone else defines this certain style of music, nor do I care for any sub-genre nonsense.



4. What is the meaning behind the band's name?



To answer this question I would almost quote myself from an interview I’ve done for Hellpike Magazine a couple of years ago: “… The first part of it (also “wolf”) is a way to describe myself or better to say my way of life, which was many times connected to the one of a lonesome wolf. The second part (also “thorn”) should be a description for the music itself and it represents a one more Thorn in the flesh of the crucified. There are both included as you can see - the personal and the ideological aspect”

Obviously such a name is more suitable for a solo project than for a band consisting of five individuals. Yet I’m pretty sure that every person involved in this band now can identify itself with the band’s name in one way or another.



5. How would you describe your stage performance and what are some of the best shows that you have played so far?



First of all, we are NOT playing shows! Our stage performance is a ritual of Blood and Fire. A ceremony to glorify the Great Deceiver. It has nothing, but absolutely nothing in common with a typical heavy metal concert only fit for entertainment of drunken shitheads and for showing the guitarist’s wanking qualities. During the rituals we use chains, torches, animal bones, pig blood and so on. All these things have a strong symbolic power at least for us. They help to create a very special mood and atmosphere within a concert hall as well as on the stage. I wouldn’t like to go in detail about the deeper spiritual aspect of a Wolfthorn’s live ritual. Those few who understand the very essence of the Cult would know anyway, the others are not of any interest.

Until today we’ve shared the stage with bands as for instance Necros Christos, Watain, Eternity, Stormnatt, Capitis Damnare, Impiety, Total Hate, Vargsang, Lugubre, Darkmoon Warrior etc. It’s a bit difficult for me to pick up the best one out of the rituals we have performed, ‘cause the typical judging criteria of a metal show such as sound quality, amount of people attending, visitors reactions etc. mean nothing for the primary goal of this band and for what I am trying to achieve with it. Each of our ceremonies has had its sense and was a success for a certain time being. Although I might add that our latest performance in Oberhausen (Ger) was one of the most intense and extreme experiences which I made on stage at all.



6. Are there any plans to tour the U.S?



I’m not into touring in general. A mini tour (no matter through which country) would be ok, yet everything what goes beyond the 5 days on the road in a row is definitely not my thing. I think the others share my views on this topic. And if it comes to play in the U.S., I would always prefer to be a part of a special event like “The Gathering of Shadows” or “Sacrifice of the Nazarene Child” for example, instead of a regular concert in a local venue. Besides of that I strongly doubt that any U.S. promoter would be interested to get an unknown underground band from the overseas for one or two exclusive performances. It’s simply unrealistic.



7. Out off all the albums,demos, and ep's that you have recorded so far, which one are you the most satisfied with?



All of our records were important for me at the certain period of time. While looking back there are always things to change, and every artist would tell you the same I guess. However, I would consider our forthcoming album “Towards Ipsissimus” the most mature one out of all and the most satisfying for me personally. It was recorded by excellent musicians utterly dedicated to the Cult, it has a far better sound compared to every older record and also the lyrical content goes much deeper into the substance of the Belief we deal with.



8. How would you describe your musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the band heading into on future releases?



The style we play hasn’t changed that much from the beginning ‘til today. Our music is not about the originality nor technical skills. We are the minnesingers of the Devil and we spread the Gospel of our Lord alongside with playing raw morbid Black Metal. We shall continue to do so in the future as well.

What is in fact different compared to the past is the presence of a drummer of flesh and blood. Also the contribution of Aer (our guitarist) has brought a lot of variety into our songs and the arrangements.



9. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?



As I have used the words like “gospel”, “belief”, “ceremony” et cetera in the lines above, you might already expect the answer on this question. The lyrical content has a deep religious background. The sparks of the Over Side which pierce my soul manifest themselves as prayers, fragments of in-/evocations and hazy prophecies. This is how the (anti)cosmic Deity, the Devil in this case, “speaks” through the living flesh of its servants. Viewing from this point I can’t tell you much about the lyrics for they are not my words. I just write them down and involve them into the music. The process of writing the lyrics differs from time to time. Sometime I receive a whole text within single minutes, sometimes I get just one word or one sentence and it takes weeks or months ‘til it develops to a complete text.

We might also use the lyrics written through other persons, like we did on our forthcoming album, if the lyrics fit our content and ideology.



10. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced the band and what are you listening to nowadays?



I don’t like such questions to be honest, even if I believe to see the intention behind them. Needless to say that I can speak for myself only, while answering this. I’ve been listening, and still listen, to a lot of music of different styles, including the non-metal music. Almost everything of it has its inspiring moments, yet I have never tried to make my music sounding like my favorite artists, at least not purposely. When I’m looking back, I would call early Bathory records, Morbid Angel’s “Abominations of Desolation”, the first two Samael albums, Burzum’s “Hvis lyset tar oss”, Darkthrone’s “Ablaze in the Northern Sky” as well as “Triarchy of the Lost Lovers” by Rotting Christ and the first Immortal album the most influential records for me in case of Black / Death Metal.

As I stated above, nowadays I still listen to the same kinds of music I’ve been listening to in the past. My stereo is currently abused by the unexpectedly great Burzum’s comeback-album alongside with Beherit’s “Engram” and Conan “The Barbarian” soundtrack.





11. What is the inspiration behind the band's satanic beliefs, and which occult philosophers or orders that have influenced your ideology?



The Devil Himself is the greatest inspiration / THE Inspiration. Of course my knowledge on this topic is partly based upon what I have read in several books dealing with the occult. Nevertheless, what has really formed my Beliefs, and I must state that I would never believe something fictional / nonexistent, is my own experience with the Other Side. So no concrete philosopher has had inspired me, nor have I ever been a part of any order / coven whatsoever.

To avoid some possible misunderstandings concerning the title of our new album, I would like to dissociate myself as well as the band from ANY form of “Crowley-ism”. We have absolutely nothing in common with it.



12. What are some of your interests outside of music?



The occult as you might have noticed. Everything else is of no importance for a Wolfthorn interrogation.



13. Where do you see black metal heading into during this decade?



I do not care really.



14. Any final words or thoughts?



Thank you for your support. A.M.S.G.!

SadhuSatana on behalf of Wolfthorn.

https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Wolfthorn/6083

Primitive Graven Image Interview

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have never heard of you before?
We are a black metal band from Chesham, near London, UK. The band started out as a project involving me (Ljosalfur) and my brother, frontman and guitarist, Dokkalfur. Our first demo and debut album was released this way. We then recruited two more members so that we could put a live show together. We have been working on our second album for the best part of 2 years now (!) and it'll finally be released in April here in Europe, and in May in the US.

2. What is going on with the band nowadays?
Right now we are getting ready for the release of our second album, 'Celebrating Impending Chaos'. We've been sending copies out to the press and getting a few gigs sorted out.
Vordhr: We're really looking forward to playing the Enblackened festival at the Underworld in May. We're playing with Abgott and its an all black event that should be killer. We are going to slay in the name of primitive raw black metal!

3. How would you describe your musical sound?
Ljosalfur: We started off as pretty traditional black metal with a bit of a thrash influence. With the new album, we have brought in other influences including death metal, prog and a bit of industrial noisiness. Riffs are very important to us. We try to focus on creating great riffs and these normally form the basis of our songs.
Vordhr: We sound like the thundering chaos that will rip this society apart and tear down the true evils of this world - censorship and oppression and the raping of our planet. It is the sound of governments, religions and oppressive regimes dying and praise once again for forests and the natural beauty that has been all but forgotten.

4. What is the meaning behind the bands name?
Ljosalfur: Our name is stolen from a Nile lyric. Apart from just sounding great it deals with worship and what human's worship. Before Christianity, before any organised religion, people worshiped primitive graven images. We are coming from somewhere primal, untouched and pure.

5. What are some of the best shows that you have played so far and how would you describe your stage performance?
Ljosalfur: We played Bloodstock Open Air festival last year which was great and also Winterfest in Cork, Ireland. We try to inject a lot of energy into our performance. We use the paint and 'image' so that we can be more theatrical and get into the themes and feelings more. I like the idea of creating a character on stage. Having the image also makes us all look like a band rather than 4 guys playing instruments, I like that.

6. Are there any plans for a U.S tour?
Ljosalfur: We have no plans at the moment. We would love to do it though. Hopefully in the future it will become a possibility!
Vordhr: its too much of a costly and tricky thing to organize on our part. As soon as we find a promoter that is able to do it I think we're all game though. As this is our second album now perhaps it is time to start looking for this to happen.

7. Out off all the bands that you have played with so far, which one did you enjoy the most?
There were a lot of great bands at Bloodstock. Carcass!!

8. What are some bands that you would like to tour or do shows with not you have not had the oppurtunity to do yet?
Ljosalfur: It would be great to tour with some of the more established black metal acts. I'd personally love to play with Anaal Nathrakh. They are my favourite band from the UK at the moment.

9. How would you describe your musical progress over the years and what direction do you see the band heading into on future releases?
Ljosalfur: As I mentioned before, when my brother and I started out, we were going for the traditional black metal thing. This new album is quite different. It retains that 'feeling' but includes a lot more influences and experimentation. We focused on getting some good production going on this time around too. Russ Russell mixed and mastered the album and it sounds great. For the future I'm sure we'll continue in a similar direction. Saying that, we love the 'traditional' thing and there is talk of doing something even more raw and primitive. Exciting times!
Vordhr: We kind of work off the energy we all create as a whole. The production is important only in as far as getting the songs across and as long as we can retain the feeling of what we're doing I'd be very happy to keep raw and primitive. It is however good to experiment. I think we will just have to see where we end up as we did with this album.

10. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?
Ljosalfur: Our lyrics deal with a few things. We try to conjure up atmospheric images. Of black skies, of nature, of the horrors of war and decay. The lyrics are also about humanity and the horrendous things that go on on this earth because of humanity. On the other hand we write about how humans have a kind of infinite potential. We examine the clashes between these two ideas. How do we break free from 'humanity' and find some kind of ultimate truth? If there is such a thing. Oh... and forests.
Vordhr: We do like forests they're very symbolic of being away from the hells that humanity has imposed on this planet. They are also very powerful and spiritual things in their own right I feel.

11. I read on Metal Archives that one of the members plays in a progressive power metal band, are there any other projects besides that one?
Ljosalfur: Rob (Dokkalfur) did some singing for a project called 'Oracles Oath'. I'm not sure what is happening with that these days. We tend to get involved in a few things. Matt, our drummer, is drumming in Empyreal Destroyer.

12. How has the reception been to your music so far from black metal fans worldwide?
Ljosalfur: We've good reactions generally. We are excited to hear what people think of this new one. As far as the first album goes, we are pleased with the reception we have received. We need to spread the word further!
Vordhr: Im always surprised to hear just how far our name has spread, particularly when bands we know and respect mention us. The reception has been pretty cool. Im looking forward to seeing what everyone makes of the new album.

13. I have seen one of your videos where you are playing in a forest, what are some other concepts that you plan on using in future videos?
Ljosalfur: That video is rather unfortunate! We would like to do a video for a new song and make it more professional. We may do a video for the song 'March of the Cattle' which compares humanity to cows. So we want cows and industrial landscapes! I'd like some kind of Pink Floyd - The Wall theme going on. Could be interesting!

14. What role does Paganism or Occultism play in the music?
Ljosalfur: I suppose it depends how you define those things. I would say paganism plays a role in our lyrics, in terms of nature worship and that kind of romanticizing of darkness and mystery. We certainly don't label ourselves as Satanic or anything like that. I don't like that label as it is such a specific reaction 'against' Christianity. What I am against does not define who I am. If I hated Star Wars I wouldn't call myself a 'Darth Vadian' ;). I am fully aware that most 'Satanists' use it as a metaphorical, philosophical thing. Fair enough, but it doesn't need to be labelled as Satanism. In my eyes anyway.
Vordhr: I am with Luke on this one having been through that. Its much better to stand for something than against something. I will fight if I am oppressed but things I find distasteful I prefer to ignore. Our lyrics are more about finding what we can do than complaining about what we can't.

15. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced the band and what are you listening to nowadays?
Ljosalfur: Our music is built on a black metal framework. We are influenced by the Norwegian bands and others. We are also influenced by a lot of Death Metal, especially the more epic stuff. Thrash Metal plays a big part in our sound too.

16. What do you hope to accomplish with the second album once it is released?
Ljosalfur: We hope to get our name out there into the metal scene. We have some good distribution going on, so hopefully everyone that wants the album will be able to get it. Now we just need to make people aware of it! It would be great to do a tour supporting a bigger band or something like that.

17. Where do you see black metal heading into during this decade?
Ljosalfur: I think the 'traditional' black metal thing will be around for years to come. There are some great bands that have proven they can bring out great new albums whilst sticking to the old style. There will always be an audience for it. At the same time, I don't see anything wrong with some of the so called 'post black metal' stuff. The marriage of black metal and shoegaze is a very good one. The floaty ethereal stuff. Amazing.
Vordhr: I think that the the raw energy is playing a very important part now. People are getting very bored of too many keyboards and frills and stuff and just want some powerful music played with vehemence!

18. How does the United Kingdom react to your musical style?
Ljosalfur: Despite coming from the UK, it's hard to pin down how it has reacted specifically. Because of things like the Internet we haven't needed to focus solely on the UK. Say that, there is a lot of coverage of our new album coming up in the UK metal press. This is very exciting times for us. We are hearing very good things.
Vordhr: Magazines such as Terrorizer and Zero Tolerance have really got behind us on this new release. We're really pleased with the reaction and their support.

19. What are some of your interests outside of music?
Vordhr: We're all very interested in music that takes up a lot of our time to be honest. I also run a studio called the Metal Farm where I live out in the forests in buckinghamshire, I also work on the label side of things and am generally absorbed in musical ventures as much as possible. Then when Im not making music I listen to it. But I do love the farm life right now, keeping chickens and growing food which is far better this way! Its about getting out of mainstream society I guess its always been a dream. Life is better this way and perspectives are very different to city life, I am just enjoying being able to live out here and make metal music right now.

20. Any final words or thoughts?

Thanks a lot for the Interview. Some great questions. Buy Celebrating Impending Chaos! Coming very soon!

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