Jarl Interview

 

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new album?

Recording was done in a timeframe of about 6 months, so we finished everything in June or July. To be fair, summertime is also time for festivals and vacation, we went a little slower than usual after Trümmerfestung was done.Recently we went back to normal schedule with rehearsals, lots of planning and organizing things. We even started writing new songs.

2. In December you have a new album coming out, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

First and foremost it finalizes our progress during the last few years. In the past a whole lot of shit was and still is going on in the world. We are some years older and as the the saying goes: With age comes wisdom. In our case is not wisdom, but a general feeling of being more down to earth. This reflects in our music.

3.This is also your first album in 5 years, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?

There was a thing called Covid19, that had a huge impact on our rehearsals and live performances. So feel free to delete around two years from the five years. Besides that we had some really great moment by traveling the German festivals.

4. A lot of your lyrics cover Philosophy, Existentialism and Dystopian themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in these topics?

As the world is getting towards the bottom of this downward spiral we could also elaborate on the social distortion or other fucked up things. These topics are covered in our lyrics 'cause we see them nearly every day. Existentialism is also a good source of coping mechanisms towards this world without losing once mind. Regarding the dystopian views, just have look around and compare it to fiction or science, there is only one conclusion: "These are the final days of ours." (quoting Primordial here)

5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Jarl'?

That's quite simple, it was the salutation for the leader of a northern tribe. That's a little compressed in the whole context, but you get the hang of it. As we are into history it was more or less surprising that no one before used that band name, so it was our part to claim it.

6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

It was done by Jan Yrlund and combines a few of the songs in one painting. We wanted to visualize some of the lyrical concepts. Even if it is more of an actual picture of the words and less the meaning, what was also an idea we had. Jan transformed everything we wanted and was a pleasure to work with.

7.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?

It would not be fair if i start naming festivals or shows now. Even if it sounds a little romantic, all promoters and festival organizers work their ass off, so heads of to all of you. Regarding our performance we just try to put our hearts on display and create a great time for everyone involved in our fare well to this world. We push ourselves and kick some ass without fancy shit.

8. Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?

Right now our focus is set on one release show in January in our hometown. Everything else is just in negotiation.

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

As far as "worldwide" goes in this context, we have met people on tour that come from so many parts of the globe. No one ever hits us up with negative shit. After our gigs we try to be around at the merch or just the locations, so feel free the get over and have a talk.

10.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

As introduced above it will possibly evolve into something a little less joyful. As we don't try to limit ourselves there could also be a surprise, who knows.

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band members are listening to nowadays?

As we are five individuals, there is a broad range of musical influences and listening habits that come to mind right now. What we all have in common is a taste in Metal in nearly all it's forms. We often talk about new records or songs during rehearsals, we visit shows and festivals together. This ranges from underground Black metal concerts with 30 people showing up to Stadium-tours of the old heroes. Don't want to start name droping on this but I think it is obvious.

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

Trümmerfestung has come a long way and we thank everyone involved. To all the unsung heroes behind and in front of the stage: We thank you.

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