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1.Can you give us an update on what is going on with the solo project these days?
Yes, I’m actually working on a new material (EP or Album, depending on its final length). I have the concept and a few songs done, but I haven’t composed all the music and lyrics just yet. All I can say is that it’s gonna be even more introspective than what I’ve done, straying here and there from metal.
2.In June you had released a new ep, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
Well, I have seen some evolution in the way I create for this particular project, especially considering that I do everything by myself, even though I am not a proper mix engineer, for instance. Undeniably, the musical taste of individuals changes over time, and I am no exception. I think this can also be heard across my discography.
3.You also play a variety of many different extreme metal genres with your other musical projects do you feel this has helped you become a more diverse musician?
Absolutely. Also, I’ve been involved in quite a few non-metal projects and commissions. It all helped me become who I am today. There’s always room for one more project, for one more genre.
4.You also play in a few other solo projects, what is it that makes the music of 'Solomonar' different form your other different musical projects?
Solomonar is a lot more, let’s say, egocentric than, for instance, Lochrian Poem. It is a project with a fixed purpose and predetermined lifetime: 51 songs depicting the 51 facets of my soul, or personalities if you will. Individuals are complex beings, and the purpose of this particular project is to explore my own complexity, spirituality and innermost driving forces.
5.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects that you explore with the newer music?
I tackle fears and anguish, various feelings that twist me in all kinds of directions, turning myself into a contradiction that somehow still holds together. For now, at least.
6.I know that the bands name comes form 'Romanian Mythology' can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?
For sure. A Solomonar is a wizard in Romanian mythology, residing secluded in the mountains, away from society. Their main activity is controlling the weather and conjuring storms, and are largely seen as negative characters. I believe this can very well be a misinterpretation of the unknown, as it has often been done in history to various topics. The connection with the wind and air as my core element is central, of course.
7.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new ep cover?
The artwork of XIV depicts a mythical angel wielding a weapon in each hand. It is a metaphor of the otherworldly that I often strive to touch with my music. Being more introspective and dreamier, Solomonar’s music rarely deals with mundane and rational topics, more often tackling the divine and the imaginary.
8.With this project you record everything by yourself but have experience working with other musicians, do you prefer to work solo?
It’s really hard to say, as it greatly depends on the work that needs to be done, on the complexity, and on the quality of the said people. I have had the honor to work with some absolutely amazing musicians and wonderful human beings, and that is something that’s definitely missing when working solo. On the other hand, working alone has its own set of benefits, not having to rely on someone else that might be less meticulous or responsive. There are always tradeoffs, but music is a community thing, so I think I slightly enjoy more working with others. That is, until I don’t. I am a capricious guy.
9.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
I have received some interest, but I am not really focused on that. If the right opportunity presents itself, I will consider it.
10.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of folk and atmospheric black metal?
There is no point in sugarcoating it: the EP release has gone largely un-noticed. The few people who listened to it seemed to have enjoyed it. I don’t know how unique or how engaging my music is, but luckily, I do not write it with such metrics in mind. It’s just something that greatly matters to me and that I want to do.
11.What is going on with your other musical projects these days?
It’s the summer festival season, so I’m travelling quite a bit through Romania and Europe these days. E-an-na released an album this year, and we’re working on some other materials as well. Dirty Shirt is also working on new music and we revealed a brand new song in a few live performances this month, and Clouds has recently released the single Chasing Ghosts. We are also preparing to release our debut album with the Chilean band Bosque de Hualles, which I’m a member of.
12.When can we expect another full length and also where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?
End of 2023 or early 2024, I would say, but without any promises. I have no schedule for this project, for a change. I have other ambitious projects in the making, so I don’t see the intense activity ceasing in the near future.
13.What are some of the bands or musical styles that you are currently listening to nowadays?
Well, Arkona released Kob’ in June, so I’ve been heavily spinning that one. My interest in Tuva got resurrected recently, so I’m listening to a lot of Hun Huur Tu, Alash Ensemble and the Tuvan National Orchestra, and more broadly to a lot of throat singing and jaw harp music. Other than that, demos. A lot of demos of the projects I’m involved in.
14.How would you describe your views on Paganism?
I’m not entirely up to date with what’s considered pagan nowadays. I have my own set of beliefs and superstitions that might be considered pagan, but it’s mostly based on empirical findings through my own experience.
15.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Thank you for having me, and I hope you enjoyed XIV. Talk to you soon!
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