Forlet Sires Interview

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?
Pleased to do so. As of late (we've just picked up a bassist and it helps the live sound an awful lot), we're a five piece (black) metal band from Winterthur, which is located in the german part of Switzerland. The band was formed in late 2013, released a demo in early 2014, did some touring inside and outside of Switzerland, started recording an album in February 2016, which was finally released in October and here we are now, picking our noses.

2.So far you have released a demo and a full length, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on both of the recordings?
Some may say that our demo had even more doom-elements to it then the recently released full-length"Journey Towards Ruin", but I think, this is only because of the first song on the demo, which is the slowest and probably also most heavy-weighted piece we've written up to this point. Apart from that, I think you've captured our style pretty accurately in your review. Black metal with post and doom influences as well as some experimental aspects.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
You could say, most of the topics deal with typical subjects such as war, misanthropy, suicide and what not and that would probably wrap it up, but we try to deliver lyrics that actually add up and tell stories or points of view which the gentle listener can follow. It would certainly be interesting to hear, what others interpret into our words.

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Forlet Sires'?
It's old english and roughly translates to "abandoned forefathers", which should express, that mankind has lost it's way (in various aspects). It was only later that we discovered, that the word "sire" is nowadays also used to describe an animal which is used for breeding purposes.

5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
I think, there is no "best show" in general, because it really comes down to the criteria. The shows we played with Forgotten Tomb in the baltics were the most packed, also it was the first time we've played outside of Switzerland, but the kickoff show of our most recent tour had probably the most people that specifically came to see us, which is a good feeling. Then there are shows, that simply take place in great venues, the organizers are cool and if on top of that the audience (independent of the numbers) is happy - that's also a candidate for "best show".

6.Do you have any touring or show plans for the future?
Currently, there's a small probability for a tour in summer 2017, which would start off in Lithuania. Shows will happen either way, but we're also writing on new material.

7.The album was released on 'Cruel Bones', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?
Cruel Bones is a small label based in Zürich, Switzerland. We've already knew the guys personally and they've always supported us in various ways. It was a conscious decision, to release the album through Cruel Bones, because while being supportive, they also leave us all the freedom we need. Also, they don't limit themselves to a certain style of music but rather release what they like and what fits into their understanding of art.

8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of black and doom metal?
Pretty good. We've received a couple of reviews from various countries and we're certainly happy with what they've had to say about the record. Also, people seem to like what we're doing, but I guess that we're the kind of band, that is hard to get if you're hearing our music for the first time while being at a concert.

9.Are any of the band members also involved with any other bands or musical projects these days?
Yes, most of them. Be it solo projects, or being involved in bands that deal with different styles of music - our members are pretty busy with music besides their jobs and studies, but I guess that's passion.

10.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
We haven't limited ourselves to a specific kind of music, but it seems like the next record will also be in the spirit of black metal. That's where our roots are, but in five years time we may as well release a drone/country album.

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Of course, with five people in the band, the musical tastes vary, but we also share some mutual interest in bands and artists such as Wolves In The Throne Room, Ash Borer, Townes Van Zandt, Young And In The Way, SUMAC or Ulcerate.
Right now, the new Tardigrada kicks some serious butt and we haven't yet decided what to think of "Rheia" from Oathbreaker.

12.What are some of your non musical interests?
Again, we're five people, so I'll just pick up the ones that worry me the most. Our drummer is alarmingly into football (the one with the round ball and the kicking) and one of our guitarists thinks, it's a good idea to ride a skateboard. So far, he's only injured his ankle.

13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Thank you for the interview, thank you for reading it, consider listening to our new album (what a surprise, it's bandcamp: https://forletsires.bandcamp.c om/) and if you haven't already, remember to try out baby wipes, it helps a lot.

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