1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new album?
Nazgûl- There were several changes that resulted in this album. The permanent lineup is myself and Murmur now, so the input was tightly focused. We are currently working with some musicians with the goal of performing live again.
2.Recently you have released a new album, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
Nazgûl- I would say the song writing is more focused and the sound even a bit more brutal on the new album. Speaking for myself I went into the writing with a lot pent up anger and I think it reflects in the overall sound. The studio experience was a lot more relaxed and we were able to make sure it sounded like we imagined.
3.This is also your first album since 2018, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?
Nazgûl- We had some lineup issues after the release of the first album. Things went well for a while, we were earning attention and getting great shows. Personal issues in various members lives slowed the momentum and we actually called it quits all together. After a break Murmur and I decided to move forward with the band. A wave of inspiration hit and this new album came together very quickly.
4.Both of the band members also have a background playing in death metal and grindcore bands, how would you compare the black metal style that you play with 'Obsidian Shrine' to the other musical styles you have worked with in your other bands or projects?
Nazgûl- While both are extreme they are night and day different in sound. Gorgy is what we are most well known for and it goes from pure chaos to everything in between. Obsidian Shrine is a more emotional band for us. It allows us to release our disgust with a world full of sheep following archaic ancient nonsense and modern woke insanity. Our goal is to encourage people to think for themselves, march to their own beat and escape the herd on whatever form it takes.
5.A lot of your lyrics cover Satanism and Anti Christianity themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark arts?
Nazgûl- As a child I was extremely interested in being a good Christian, as a result I started going to church. Going to church was the quickest way to find out how nonsensical it all was. Things that took place in my youth also led to me exploring religious options. If I were to summarize the majority are based on the same concepts and all end in servitude based on fear. I looked into Satanism in my late teens and the independent nature that encouraged self reliance and responsibility really worked with my mindset. I don't believe in God or the Devil, heaven or hell. I think we have a lot to learn about life and what we are as humans and until we shed the superstition we'll always remain stuck in conflict.
Murmur- Obsidian Shrine is much more than simply Anti-Christianity. Abrahamic faith is a cancer to mankind in any form, denomination, or derivative. It's abhorrent to it's core and will continue to be at the forefront of our message.
6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Obsidian Shrine'?
Nazgûl- In the early 2000's I was involved in another black metal band that never did anything. When we were throwing names around I came up with it then. Obsidian, the darkness of it made from sulphur and fire. To be honest it just rolled off my tongue like it was meant to be. We never used it back then but it never left my mind. So when this project came to life it started with Obsidian Shrine already in mind.
7.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
Nazgûl- The artwork was created by Riaj Gragoth. It's a custom piece he made for us. Murmur can definitely better explain the concept better than I.
Murmur- Bloodshed Under the Black Star describes the proverbial battle between heaven and hell in which hell is ultimately victorious. We wanted our album cover to not only visually depict the title track's message, but to include symbolism for other religions that are often overlooked in black metal, but equally repugnant.
8.Currently there are only 2 members in the band but you had a full line up in the past, Are you open to working with other musicians again or do you prefer to remain a duo?
Nazgûl- As far as writing I prefer it to remain Murmur and I without the confusion of added egos, opinions and directional conflicts. I am very open and excited to work with other musicians to perform live again.
9.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
Nazgûl- I believe our best show was our last with Oubliette in Nashville, TN. Scott Briggs from Fornicus had joined us on rhythm guitar. The show was in a great venue with an amazing storm outside that conjured when we took the stage. Our stage performance is old school, no makeup. We let the power of the music take over. We have had very ritualistic performances with candles, and ceremony to set the mood. Moving forward I just want to play well enough that the crowd is moved by what they are hearing.
10.Currently the band is signed to 'Negative Earth Records', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?
Nazgûl- negative earth is a small label but the man that runs it is dedicated to insuring as many people hear us as possible.
11.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal?
Nazgûl- our current following is definitely growing. Since the release of the new album we've got comments from many different countries that seem to really like what we are doing. I hope to see that audience continue to grow.
12.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that the band members are a part of?
Nazgûl- All other projects are currently on hiatus to focus on moving Obsidian Shrine forward and dedicate our attention furthering our reach.
13.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
Nazgûl- we've already begun writing for the next album. I hope to continue to develop our sound and given the opportunity play select shows and fests. We have very demanding lives outside of Obsidian Shrine so we have make the best of our time in every way.
14.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band members are currently listening to nowadays?
Nazgûl- In Aphelion, Night Crowned, Thulcandra, Yoth Iria, Agathodaimon, Kvaen and Necrofier are bands I've really been enjoying lately. On the more brutal side the new Analepsy and Necroticgorebeast are killer. The majority of my listening is black, death and grind. I do enjoy folk music and some classic rock / blues as well.
Murmur- I've been between grind and black metal lately. Digging up some of the older (late 90's early 00's) albums from Dimmu, Dark Funeral, 1349, etc.. that inspired me early on. Grind is always on the list with bands such as Rotten Sound, Gadget, Lock Up, and Phobia to name a few.
15.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Nazgûl- I would like to thank you for taking the time to speak with us. I would also like to mention that Sebastian from Necrophobic contributed an amazing solo to our title track and Scott from Fornicus is responsible for the live drumming on the album as well as mix and master. Both of them helped make this album what it is. I would like to encourage those who aren't familiar with us to look us up. We have a YouTube channel, Facebook, Instagram. You can pick up our CD and merch at negativeearth666.bandcamp.com
We are also streaming on all of the popular streaming services. Thank you.
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