We wrote our first pieces back in 2014 after our project at the time split. It was our endeavour to explore nature-themed atmospheres in the midst of classic black metal. It is to this day the pair of us and we present our music with two more musicians on stage.
2. You have your first full length coming out towards the end of February, musically how does it differ from your previous ep and singles?
The songs are considerably longer and far more elaborate. Both lyrics and music have evolved into something more authentic. The soundscapes and themes are more grand compared to everything we've done so far. Thanks to our now friend Markus Stock the production is on point as well.
3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music?
So far our lyrics have concerned the poems of our nature, the stories of magical characters and the mortality of all life. Oftentimes we speak as nature, sometimes we accompany creatures on their paths through time and space. Despair and grief play a remarkable role as well.
4. I know that the band was named after a former king of Assyria who reigned before common era, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this historical king?
We found this particular name on a day at a renowned German museum. After sleepless nights getting bogged down in the search for an appropriate title, we just clicked. Asarhaddon was known to be a very grand, but domineering emperor. Two vital aspects mirrored in our style of writing.
5. Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
We took the cover photo after sunset on a day at King's Stone, Germany. Representing the current cycle's theme and our moniker, of course. The photo carries the skulls of six different birds of prey. Each personating one of the six tracks of this record.
6. Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding the line up again or do you prefer to remain a duo?
We never planned on forming a 4-piece project or some such thing. There's great charm in limiting your creative resources, which reflects our music and we mean to remain this way. We do work with two more musicians in this collective, even more when it comes to orchestrating an album.
7. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
We played some exclusive festival shows in the past. With audiences of only a couple hundred people. We were welcomed with respect and joyous anticipation. We usually keep things focused on the music. No costumes, no make up. When light and sound embrace, our music unfolds into an extraordinary scenery.
8. Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?
We couldn't book any shows before this year's festival season, as we took our time with the release and expected a serious surgery within the band (that gladly did not happen). However, we are currently negotiating with a number of hosts and keep adding more concerts towards the end of the year.
9. On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal?
The feedback until now was almost solely positive. We keep receiving the same compliments after the shows, which is welcome recognition of the hard work. We even had people mail us to express their emotions that was given to them through our music. A very humbling experience.
10. Are any of the band members currently involved with any other bands or musical projects these days?
One of us is playing with our former bassist in a second project in Thuringia. The other one focuses on writing and producing music with his friends. We are certain Asarhaddon won't be our last stage of presenting our musical creations.
11. Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
We do have a handful of plans that we can't even phrase, as we must take care of current priorities. It will be enchanting to delve into more stories and musical themes in the coming years. We hope to share even more wondrous songs when their time has come.
12. 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?
That is pretty complicated. We were never really guided by a particular band and know of no-one who could be a parallel to our music. Currently we listen to artists like Enisum, Addaura, Horn and the creations of Ivar Bjørnson and Einar Selvik. Maybe these bands have had a notable impact on our musical process.
13. Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Everyone listen to more music and be kind to each other. Thank you ever so much for your time!
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