1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new split?
M. Hanael - Currently we are taking a short break as all pending job had settled. We will hit the stage again this coming September. And will start to write new material soon.
2.In the last year you have released a new full length and split, musically how do they differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
M. Hanael - Well I should say this time we go for a different style of song writing while preserving the essence of As Sahar trademark & lyrical theme.
3.Some of your lyrics also cover Occult themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark or esoteric arts?
A. Altrajalia - Every soul has its own darkness, either it is highlighted or protected by the owner. In my arts, I was dealing with pain in mental health. One of it I throw to the lyrics.
M. Hanael - It is important ant o understand our own cult & culture before understanding foreign ones. I've been exploring & studies our own but there is always more to learn & explore.
4.You also have a lot of lyrics that cover 'Nusantara Mythology', can you tell us a little bit more about this topic and also how does Eastern Mythology differ from the more well known Western Mythologies that is usually covered lyrically by black metal bands?
A. Altrajalia - There is reason why follower don't call us as Malaysian Black Metal or Singapore Black Metal etc. Our lyric represent the Archipelago Myth. A Black Metal follower in here do enjoy to listen Western Myth, but can't touch their soul. How do we want to enjoy the snow you told us if there is no snow in our place? As Sahar create a "snow" to Eastern Black Metal follower. If Western Europe got Celtic Black Metal, east euro got viking Black Metal and so go on to US, Latin etc. So in here, we proudly present Eastern Black Metal.
5.You also seem to have an interest in 'Nationalism', can you tell us a little bit more about what these means to you?
A.Altrajalia - Nationalism has been As Sahar controversy since 1996, the fist album released. The past vocalist has a lot of interest with that ideology. As a recent vocalist, I have no problem with that either satanic or nationalism . I just have problem with the discrimination pussies.
6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'As Sahar'?
M.Hanael - The edge of darkness meeting the point of light. Its is neither day of night. Its is the peak period of all occult activities.
7.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the split album cover?
M.Hanael - the album artwork was done by the labels. They showed to us before deciding on it, its look great & we agreed on it.
8.The band has been around since 1993, what is it that motivates you to keep going after almost 30 years?
M.Hanael - Well I have no intention to retired from playing music yet, hahahaha. Well I guest the fans & friends that motivate us to keep on going forward.
9.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
M.Hanael - Most of our shows were great especially the smaller ones as the band crowd interaction were near & great. Most memorable were to play at the Philippines.
10.Recently the band was a part of a split with 'Warkvlt', what are your thoughts on the other band that had participated on the recording?
M.Hanael - I have known the band front man for almost 20+ years now & we were close every since, Warkvlt were a great war black metal band that emerge from indonesia.
11.The split was released through both 'Vrykloblast Productions' and 'Sadist Records', can you tell us a little bit more about these labels?
M.Hanael - Vrykoblast I have known the owner for more that 30 years a great guys, as for Sadist Records I have done few trade with his & he is also a nice guy. Both the label are a very active labels with lots of great releases.
12.On a worldwide level how has the reaction bene to your newer music by fans of black metal?
M.Hanael - So far all responses & reviews have been great & positive.
13.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
M.Hanael - We will still keep on making songs & album, at the same time breaking any boundaries or trying new formula.
14.What are some of the bands or musical styles that the band members are currently listening to nowadays?
M.Hanael - As for me been listening to newer bands like Mgla, Bathuskha, Uada & Misotheist.
15.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
M.Hanael - Thanks for this great interview, I hope there will be lots more for the Asian band being interview by you. Cheers dude, may the Eastern Flame Burns Forever .....
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