Asenheim Interview

 

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

Tiwaz:

We recorded the "Wolkenbrecher" album back in 2021. After we finished the recordings, some instrumentals for another album were created. Unfortunately, there were technical problems in the meantime, which is why we couldn't finish the album for a long time. However, a large part of the files could be saved and I finished the vocals in 2023. Apart from that, some new ideas have emerged but we have decided to take a creative break for the time being before recording a new album again.

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

Tiwaz:

The new album is certainly our most varied so far. With the concept album "Nibelungenblut" we already worked with new elements and instruments and it worked well. In "Wolkenbrecher" there is a common thread thematically  but each song tells its own story. Musically, elements from all previous Asenheim albums are taken up, but also a few surprises. 

3.Both of the band members are also in other bands, what is it that you bring into the music of 'Asenheim' that you where not able to do with other groups?

Tiwaz:

Absolute freedom! Asenheim does not commit itself to any particular style and the songwriting is completely free of constraints and we don't want to meet any expectations. Every song and every album is created without restrictions. Depending on the life situation and mood, different things are created. Of course, it's difficult to assign the music to a specific genre, but that's exactly what makes Asenheim what it is.

Valfor:

Tiwaz and I share a similar approach to music, which creates a strong connection between us and our creative visions. This allows me to contribute my ideas in a way that isn’t possible with other musicians. The collaborative freedom and shared understanding we have are what make Asenheim’s music unique. It’s something I truly value and haven’t experienced in the same way with other bands.

4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the new music and also how would you describe your progress as songwriters over the years?

Tiwaz:

My personal experiences play a central role in the lyrics. When I started writing my first texts, I was still a teenager and accordingly the many texts lacked depth. I just sang about the things that other metal bands I listened to at the time were also singing about.  

The new album thematically deals with different types of fighting. One half of the album is more aggressive, both lyrically and musically, and deals with physical combat. A fight against poisoned tongues, against a society of excess and degeneration and against the destruction of culture and nature. The other half deals with the battle in your own head. Against the inner demons and how to try to defeat them. The music is also more introspective and melancholic.

5.On your earlier albums you also covered some pagan themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this subject has evolved over the past 3 decades?

Tiwaz:

The pagan themes were much more dominant in the older works. That's also the reason why I chose the name "Asenheim". It means "The Home of the Aesir or Asgard." The Aesir are the family of gods from Nordic and Germanic mythology and Asgard is not in this world for mankind, it can only be reached after death in battle. Therefore, for me, Asenheim is also a name for the afterlife. I have been interested in life after death and the world of spirits since I was a child and I still find it fascinating to this day. My interest in paganism is still there and I still incorporate these influences into the lyrics. I just use it differently than I used to. Many stories and characters from paganism can be used excellently as metaphors for real experiences. So I found a good way to combine my interests in my lyrics.

6.Lyrically you have also covered old legends and fantasy themes, which areas of these topics have you explored lyrically?

Tiwaz:

The "Nibelungenblut" album is heavily based on the old German legend of the Nibelungenlied. Many old stories and legends have changed slightly over the centuries and so I didn't miss the opportunity to tell my own interpretation of the story. My own dreams had a strong influence on the course of history. 

Apart from that, I often made up my own stories. Sometimes it's old paintings, thoughts or even video games that inspire me.

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

Tiwaz:

The castle on the cover photo is Heidelberg Castle here in Germany. I live near there for several years now and I 'm always impressed about it. I always find it fascinating how this old building has survived the centuries and still dominates the image of the city today. For me it is a symbolic image of the majesty of ancient buildings over the modern world. 

Four horses ride through a thunderstorm in the sky. As a symbol for the album title, they represent an irrepressible power and break through the dark clouds. With their appearance they usher in a better time. This is where the title “Wolkenbrecher” comes from. It means "Those who break through the clouds"

8.Currently there are only 2 members in the band but there has been other members in the past, are you open to working with other musicians again in the future or do you prefer to remain a duo?

Tiwaz:

There is an old German saying that says: Too many cooks spoil the broth. This could best be compared with the English “never change a running system”. When Valfor recorded the second Asenheim album 7 years ago, he was initially only planned as a session drummer. However, it quickly became clear that our collaboration harmonized very well and that we were able to complement our creative ideas together excellently. It quickly became clear that we wanted to continue making music together in the future. Since then we have recorded 9 albums and a mini album. 

I sometimes find it very refreshing to have a few guests appear on an album but to be honest, I can't imagine  another member playing permanently at Asenheim.

Valfor:

One of the reasons Asenheim is so close to my heart is the dynamic of working as a duo. The fewer people involved, the less complicated things become. For live performances or guest contributions to specific tracks, I don't mind including others. However, as permanent musicians and songwriters, I will always prefer the two-member setup. It allows to maintain creative synergy and simplicity.

9.The new album is coming out on 'Dominance Of Darkness', how would you compare working with this label to other labels you have worked with in the past?

Tiwaz:

We are very happy with "Dominance of Darkness Records" and think we went the right way. It's important to me that Asenheim remains rooted in the underground and at the same time we can offer our fans high quality recordings and merch. 

I still don't want to draw a comparison to our previous labels. Each of you has walked your path with us and I am grateful for that.

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

Tiwaz:

The reactions are often very mixed. The core of Asenheim is basically Black Metal, but our albums sound very different and we like to experiment with new elements. It's completely normal that not everyone can like this. We don't want that at all. 

Asenheim is not intended for quick consumption in between and requires attention from the listener. 

 One of the few advantages of social media is that we have also been able to attract many international listeners. Although our texts are predominantly in German, the number of listeners is growing worldwide and that makes us very proud.

Valfor:

The reactions to Asenheim's music vary greatly. Some find it too cliché, while others say it strays too far from traditional black metal - at least for some records. On the other hand, people appreciate the unique blend of instrumental elements and black metal we create. I’d honestly say we must be doing something right if we provoke both sides—those who love our music and those who dismiss it as cringeworthy nonsense. It's all opinions that keep things interesting.

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

Tiwaz:

There are no concrete plans for the future. We'll just let it happen and see what the future brings. We have often received requests for a live performance. I'm not opposed to it in principle, but my own laziness gets in the way here. Maybe one day. Musically there will definitely be more works and perhaps a few surprises.

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

Tiwaz:

In addition to black and heavy metal in almost all variations, I am interested in various other genres. Neofolk, Dungeon Synth, Goth(rock), (Martial)Industrial, Techno/Electronic...to name the most important ones. Basically, I'm very open-minded when it comes to music. The most important thing is that it gives me the right feeling.

Valfor:

I listen to almost every genre imaginable—from pop and classical music to ambient, folk, black & death metal, drum & bass, and hardcore. Within black metal, my current favorites include Labyrinthus Stellarum, Horn, and Seth. 

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

Tiwaz:

Thank you for your interest in our music and for the interview!

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our fans for their support and many kind words. A special greeting goes to the east-german Black Metal scene. You know who you are!

Valfor:

Stay tuned for what’s to come and keep the flame of the underground alive!

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