Bilesipper Interview

 

1.      For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the musical project?

 

Bilesipper has existed for around one year and seeks to create chaotic raw black metal. However, everything from droning noisescapes to death metal riffs are also present. As long as the product is harsh and evil, then Bilesipper’s musical goal has been achieved.

 

2.      So far you have released a demo and an ep, musically how do they both differ from each other?

 

The demo has a grating atmosphere and droning, repetitive songs, with no fast parts and only minimal vocals. It was intended as a more DSBM-styled release, while the goal for the EP was to create short, aggressive, and more straightforward compositions to show that Bilesipper is not limited to one style by any means. Future releases will continue to expand on the Bilesipper sound. Finally, the demo was recorded with a drum machine, while the EP features live drumming, which added greatly to the aggression and rawness.

 

3.      What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you have explored so far with the music?

 

Blasphemy, madness, and plague. This is ugly, violent music, and the lyrics are no exception.

 

4.      What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Bilesipper'?

 

The name just came to me one day and the mental image made my skin crawl – always a good sign! “Sipping” suggests drinking with control, so the name evokes something refined yet depraved; this is a deliberate, measured act, which makes it all the more horrifying. It also is catchy. Nothing wrong with being memorable.

 

5.      Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the ep cover?

 

This is an old drawing depicting plague victims. Black metal reflects all the bad things in the world, so in light of current events the wretchedness feels especially timeless.

 

6.      With the exception of a few session musicians you record most of the music by yourself, are you open to expanding into a full band or do you prefer to work solo?

 

Yes, it would be great to expand and even play live shows one day. I do enjoy calling the shots creatively for now but would welcome collaboration as long as it adhered to the Bilesipper spirit. The music is the only thing that really matters.

 

7.      Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

 

I have not received any interest yet but would be very open to hearing from labels. Right now, I am working on gaining fans and spreading the word organically so there is no rush. Bilesipper is still young.

 

8.      On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal?

 

I have received positive feedback, which is very humbling and encouraging. I am working on getting more exposure for the two current releases, but I believe for the next step Bilesipper needs to release more music to reach more people. The support so far is very motivating and Bilesipper will deliver!

 

9.      When can we expect a full length and also where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?

 

No plans for a full-length as of now, but there is a smaller release coming. Drums have been tracked so far. The style will be closer to the EP than the demo, but of course there will be new things as well. A physical release and merch are also two goals for the future, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself. As a musician, I have been focusing on composition and hope to further refine my writing skills in the future.

 

10.   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?

 

Bilesipper is directly influenced by bands like Immortal, Behexen, Archgoat, Beherit (especially Drawing Down the Moon), Demilich, old Dimmu Borgir …too many evil gems to list, but many European bands from the 90s are a defining influence. I listen to a huge range of music, though; today was Jimi Hendrix and Company Segundo, the day before was Enslaved and Wintersun.

I previously played in a band called Unlucky Theta, which was a psychedelic and progressive groove/sludge metal band, so it is definitely not black metal all the time for me. That being said, Bilesipper is and will remain a black metal project without question.

 

11.   Does Occultism play any role in your music?

 

            No. There is no spiritualism, mysticism, religion, or any other sort of philosophy, belief, or agenda behind Bilesipper. This is ugly music purely for the sake of ugliness.

 

12.   Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

 

I want to thank Occult Black Metal Zine for taking the time to not only feature the EP but to conduct this interview as well. It is very humbling to have people show interest in your music, and I have nothing but respect for sites like this one that dedicate so much time and energy to keeping the underground going strong.

And to the fans: Bilesipper will return soon with another gut-churning injection of vile black metal sorcery so stay tuned!

 

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