1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the solo project since the recording and release of the new album?
Two songs, Hosts of Heaven and Bloodied Cries - Echoes From the Keep and A Shadow Cast Upon the Frozen Plain- The Unholy Angel of the Forsaken have been released so far with the final drop of all songs set for 2/6/2023.
This latest release has occupied so many hours,days and months that I am now taking the opportunity away from music for some time to focus on other goals/projects.
2.Recently you have released a new album, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
Ruination is the most technical and complex release I have completed to date. Each track has a minimum of four to six, often individual guitar sections and multiple harmonies.
The song structures, though more cohesive and including more repetitious phrases, are orchestrated in a more thoughtful way than ever before.
The entire album is a journey and I feel the structure of each song in sequence reflects that.
With Ruination I have explored more death metal elements and built upon an influence from Swedish gothenburg styles of the 90's.
This new release also includes multiple songs with mid tempo pacing and different fills/beats than my typical approach to drumming of the past.
3.From 2014 to 2021 there was no music being released, can you tell us a little bit more about what was going on during that time frame?
I was without focus and equipment. With nearly every release I was limited by my dependence on others to track, mix and master. In 2021 I purchased all the basic equipment I would need to produce decent sounding recordings which inspired me to write once again.
4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you explore with the newer music and also how would you describe your progress as a songwriter over the years?
The lyrics for most of my releases are deeply personal and heavily metaphorical. Ruination tells of medieval warfare, betrayal, lust, death and destruction.
The first record I completed demonstrates what I consider to be very basic songwriting (though I still hold that release in high regard). Over the years I have become more efficient with my process. Ruination was written, recorded, mixed and mastered- start to finish in about 3 months.
I feel this latest full length is really some of my best song writing and I am immensely happy with the outcome.
5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Gates Of Mourning'?
Many of my themes and the musical elements reflect loss and despair. A huge influence for me in starting this project is Mourning Beloveth and the name came together from there.
6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
The artwork description, theme, colors and concept were relayed in great detail to the artist. Pictured within the art one can find pieces of each song and the result is exactly what I wanted for this release.
7.With this project you record everything by yourself but also have experience playing in bands and working with other musicians, how would you compare the two?
I have - Maruta , Nailshitter, Legions, another solo project - Impious Throne and others over the years.
There is no comparison to the freedom and efficiency of working solo. There are of course greater challenges concerning competency with the recording, mixing and mastering side of things as those come strictly from necessity for me - but overall the song writing process and putting the pieces together on my own is enthralling and I am quite addicted to it.
I am fortunate I can consult with others such as Mauro Cordoba (Maruta, Gridlink etc) who is well versed in recording and provides some insight as I learn.
8.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
Yes but I really am terrible at promoting myself or making outreach.
9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of melodic black metal?
Full release is set for tomorrow 2/6/2023 but initial reactions to those who have heard the album are favorable.
This musical outlet of expression and creation is first and foremost for me and ultimately I expect my music to not be as well received by black metal fans.
10.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that you are a part of?
Currently I only work on my other solo project Impious Throne.
11.Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?
I plan to complete a death metal release and further develop my recording skills.
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?
Dissection, Ulver, Lord Belial, Mourning Beloveth, Suhnopfer, Undying, Unanimated, The Moaning. Belphegor, Gates of Ishtar, Sacramentum.
Lately I have been listening to Dissection, Thulcandra, Carach Angren, Stormruler, Worm and Funeral Mass --and too many others to name.
13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
I appreciate you taking the time to not only listen to the album but follow up with these questions - so thank you to you!
Thank you to everyone who comes across the album and listens with intention, digests the effort and depth of emotion put into every facet of this recording.
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