Rohgarr Interview

 1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the solo project?

Yes, of course. First of all, thank you for the interview. My name is Rohgarr, I hails from Germany and I have a same titled black metal solo project, founded in 2024. 

2.You have your first full length coming out in April, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

My debut album LESS PEOPLE will be released on April 24th. Black´n´Roll and D-Beat are combined there.

3.Some of your lyrics cover Norse and Germanic Mythology, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

Norse mythology is the historical element I identify with the most, which is why this cultural heritage is reflected in my lyrics. It embodies polytheism, a deep connection to nature, and traditional values.  

4.What are some of the other lyrical topics and subjects you explore on the new album?

Primarily I maintain the message of "less people, fewer problems". This claim almost fits in every living situations. When we´ve fewer people, we have cleaner nature, faster solutions in social debate and more relaxation in mountains and forests.  The list could go on forever.

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

Rohgarr is a neologism. It means a combination between my first and my last name in a blackened style. 

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

The artwork is a symbiosis of shamanism, occultism, and a deep connection to nature. Most of the photos are my own, which I see as a way to authentically express and present my art to the outside world. 

7.With this project you record everything by yourself but have experience as a drummer in a full time band, do you feel working solo has given you an opportunity to be ,more creative when writing music?

It depends on the kind of music I’m aiming for. I love playing in bands, but I also enjoy composing my own pieces. I can fully express my creativity both in a collective and on my own - both are important to me. 

8.You also work as a drum coach, can you tell us a little bit more about this position?

I run my own drum school in Dresden, Germany, and write educational drum books. This is my full-time work alongside my bands and solo projects. 

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

Since I haven’t performed live with my solo projects yet, the feedback so far has been very positive. I truly value having an authentic exchange with people around the world through my music - it's deeply fulfilling to me. 

10.What is going on with 'Die Apokalyptischen Reiter' these days?

Last year, we celebrated our 30th anniversary, including a limited box set and a major tour. It was fantastic! Currently, we’re working on a new album, which will be released in 2027. 

11.Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?

Non-stop music writing, full-power live concerts, and an intense exchange about music and its philosophy. 

12.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?

Nowadays, I like listening to all kinds of Black Metal (except Post BM) and experimental music such as Ritual Ambient and Power Electronics. These are also my biggest influences for my current music. 

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

All the best and SKAL!

https://rohgarr.bandcamp.com/