1. For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the solo project?
The project came to life almost by accident. Earlier this year, I started writing and recording music mainly for fun and I intended to do guitar covers. But soon I realized I had a stronger urge: to express something personal and put my musical ideas into a cohesive shape. That’s how Graven was born.
2. Recently you have released your first full length, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?
I’ve always listened to many different genres, but over the past couple of years I’ve developed a deep connection with black metal. I didn’t really set out to write a “black metal album”, it just happened naturally. The first riffs I wrote were clearly in that direction, and I followed the path.
3. The lyrics on the new recording is a concept album, can you tell us a little bit more about the story that you have covered with this release?
The story behind March of the Broken is inspired by three main sources: the album Winter’s Gate by Insomnium, the movie Valhalla Rising by Nicolas Winding Refn, and my personal journey. It’s an allegory of collapse and rebirth: a group of men sets out in search of a promised land, only to discover ruin, madness, and loss. But through this descent into darkness, they eventually find the strength to survive and rebuild. It mirrors my own experience with OCD, disillusionment with external goals, and the long, painful path toward self-acceptance and inner clarity.
4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Graven'?
The name reflects my personal view on how life leaves permanent marks on us. “Graven” evokes the idea of something carved into stone: experiences that shape us, scar us, but ultimately define who we are. That process fascinates me.
5. Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
The artwork portrays the “march of the broken”: the survivors who keep moving forward after their illusions have shattered. The overall tone is bleak and shadowy, but there’s a quiet, almost martial determination in their posture. It’s about resilience, not glory.
6. With this project you record everything by yourself, are you open to working with other musicians or do you prefer to work solo?
I generally prefer working solo, because I love the idea of shaping an entire project from beginning to end, as I did with March of the Broken. That said, I’d be very open to working with a drummer who also composes, because I think that would really help expand and layer the percussive dimension.
7. Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
I have a specific label in mind that I’d like to approach, but I’ll keep it to myself for now.
8. On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal?
The album has only been out for a few days, and Graven didn’t even exist two months ago — so it’s early to say. That said, the feedback I’ve received so far, both from strangers and people close to me, has been very positive. The title track and “The Light That Failed” seem to resonate especially well.
9. Do you have any experience playing in other bands or musical projects?
I played in a few local bands when I was younger, but for many years now I’ve preferred to play alone and focus on developing my own style. The “band lifestyle” doesn’t really suit me.
10. Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?
I’m a person with a lot of interests, musical and otherwise, so I tend to avoid long-term predictions. That said, March of the Broken and Graven lit something inside me. I know for sure I’m not done. At the very least, I want to write a second album.
11. What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Atmospheric, epic, and symphonic black metal have had a clear influence, but not only that. The guitar solos, for instance, are more in the vein of Gothenburg melodic death metal. There’s even a riff in “Our Wounds, Our Crown” that’s heavily inspired by Devin Townsend. Summoning, The Great Old Ones, and Insomnium are definitely in the DNA of this record. Lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of Messa, an Italian band that’s doing amazing things with their new album. I’m proud they’re from my country.
12. Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Just a sincere thank you for this interview and the opportunity. It means a lot.
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