Forefather Interview

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

We are in the process of demo-ing and choosing songs for our next album. This time we have many more songs than usual, so we’ll have enough material for at least half the next one too. Other than that we are just preparing our studio and dealing with the day to day tasks of selling some CDs, shirts etc.

2. Where did you come up with the band name?

It was quite a simple choice in the early days of starting the project. We needed something which represented times gone by. It was a matter of making sure nobody else had used it yet, which luckily they hadn’t. Other than that there is not much story behind the name.

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

We never make any intentional changes in direction, but inevitably our writing styles may change over time with experience. I think most of the changes we’ve gone through are down to sound rather than the music, although we seem to have naturally lost some of the more straight black metal stuff to more “traditional” or “heavy” metal. The black metal riffing is still there though, and I think it’s an integral part of our sound. Over the years we’ve become more elaborate in our vocal and synth work, and perhaps added melody on the guitar. I see this kind of stuff continuing on the next album; though if I had to give a more definite prediction I would say it may sound a bit like a mixture of the last 2 albums.

4. When can we expect new material?

We no longer give predictions of release dates as we got into lots of problems with this before “Steadfast”. All I can say is that we’re working on demos and I very much hope to get an album out this year. We shall see. In the end I think it’s better not to rush things. It’s not like we have a record company putting pressure on us. Things just get done when they’re ready.

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

“Steadfast” because overall it is, in my opinion, the best thing we’ve created music wise, production wise and performance wise. However in some ways I think “Deep into Time” because of its simplicity and rawness. Not much was asked of it, so it lived up to our expectations.

6. How has your music been received so far by pagan metal fans worldwide?

Usually very positively, especially since “Steadfast” which seems to have gone down particularly well with many people. I haven’t heard many negative things for quite a few years now. Maybe this is because Pagan/Viking metal is more popular now, so the piss-taking remarks about “hey nonny nonnyisms” have died down.

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

We have never played a live show so this is a somewhat empty paragraph from me.

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

No. There are still no plans for any live performances.

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

Firstly metal such as Iron Maiden, Burzum, Rhapsody, Manowar, Bathory and also some ambient, folk and medieval music has influenced us. These days (personally speaking) I listen to very little music besides the new Burzum album and Vangelis, with some folk and medieval music occasionally. When you are around music so much, sometimes you don’t want to hear it anymore. Things can become stale and it’s more and more difficult to find something fresh sounding without digging back into the classic metal past to find a gem you never discovered, or continuing to follow the more established bands.

10. How would you compare Anglo Saxon Mythology to Norse Mythology?

They are very similar and have essentially the same roots. Differences come in the names of gods and festivals, but the important thing is the essential meaning of it all. Eostre and Nerthus seem to be particular to the English, but some may argue with that. Overall I see the two as basically the same ideas in a different mask. I’m more interested in the meaning, not the superficial side.

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

Formula 1 racing, alternative views of history, the origins of religions, English history, films, exploring the outdoors.

12. Any final words or thoughts?

Thanks for the questions. If you’re interested in the band keep an eye on HYPERLINK "http://www.forefather.net" www.forefather.net . I hope to be able to offer the new material this year.