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1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new album?
(Adrian)
Having only just released our debut album ‘The Black Throne of Chaos Abandoned’, we have been focused on getting the word out there for people to listen to and enjoy the tunes. We have also started to explore new ideas for the next concept album.
Our drummer Francis is expected to welcome his first child in April so there are exciting times for him.
2.Recently you have released a new album, musically how does it differ form the stuff you have released in the past?
(Adrian)
Since the release of both our demo album ‘Empire in Ruin’ (2016) as well as our EP ‘Escape Reality’ (2017), musically we have shifted a little musically. The newly released album incorporates more rhythm driving qualities from black metal opposed to our old days of sustaining purely thrash inspired riffs. This blending of the two styles we feel really helped create the dynamics we wanted for this new concept album that otherwise, we would not have been able to achieve.
3.This was also your first release since 2017, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?
(Kym)
Since our last release of our EP ‘Escape Reality’ in 2017, there has been a steady focus on writing songs for this album. Our original intention was to release another EP, however, as we continued to write music, the prospect of an album unfolded. Additionally, we have performed several local gigs to take some time off from writing, enjoy what fans in South Australia offer, and test some new tunes.
Most of the band members are fathers, so looking after family keeps them quite busy. Everyone also works in Engineering or IT full time, so it can be a challenge getting the crew together at times.
4.A lot of your lyrics show some inspiration from the writings of H.P Lovecraft, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this author?
(Grant)
Lovecraftian horrors are just so well-crafted – they evoke a fantastic unknowable evil that provides a great eldritch backdrop for our style of music. This coupled with a sci-fi and fantasy bent (from the likes of Warcraft, Lord of the Rings, etc.) gives us plenty work with 😊
5.What are some of the other lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music?
(Grant)
The songs themselves tend to work through a story around the group of space Vikings known as Executus – at the face of it. But within that the songs themselves tackle all kinds of things. In particular anxiety, depression, guilt, and the general existential dread of living on earth in 2024 with how bad everything is, with no one seemingly doing anything about it.
6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Executus'?
(Grant)
Executus – is a boss from World of Warcraft’s first raid back in 2004. Major-domo Executus. It’s catchy and leans into our nerd pedigree.
7.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
(Kym)
We wanted the artwork to depict the moment Azathoth emerges from the astral gateway, which happens around track 5, for those playing along at home. We got in touch with an Aussie artist named Scotty Bates who has done work for bands like Slaughter To Prevail and Aborted, and seemed to have a healthy appreciation for sci-fi. At the time we only had a handful of songs and this was intended to be an EP, but we were so blown away by the artwork he sent us, it inspired us to make it a full album.
8.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
(Adrian)
One favourite show we played was located inside a local brewery. There was very little room so we played on the floor, allowing people to come up and headbang over our foldbacks as we played. People were falling down over equipment, headbanging, and we were right there with them. We loved that personal intimacy this provided and hopefully we can play another one in the future. Sometimes with raised stages, fans can seem distant.
So the closer you are, the better.
9.Do you have any touring or show plans for the new album?
(Grant)
No touring plans as yet. I mentioned before our drummer is expecting his first soon and would like to be available for that. Hopefully we can look to string a few local shows together however.
10.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
(Kym)
I mean, we wouldn’t say no to a label if they were interested. Everything we have recorded and produced to date has been self-funded.
11.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black and thrash metal?
(Adrian)
It has been absolutely amazing! There has been nothing but positivity towards this album from all around the globe. Despite this albums’ late release on December 4, we’ve even managed to sneak into the top 10 heavy metal album listings for several YouTube channels, podcasts and radio stations.
Seeing people enjoy our music is what we do this for, and we thank everyone for listening and hope you enjoyed it!
12.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
(Grant)
I feel musically we have honed in on a style and genre that works well for us, and enjoy writing and creating music to this. We will continue to write new songs which hopefully in the near future everyone can enjoy.
13.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?
(Adrian)
For several of the band members, Metallica has definitely provided a lot of musical influence. You can probably hear a lot of Kirk in the guitar solos. Rhythmically, bands like Sepultura, Immortal and Skeletonwitch have helped create the raw sound and energy of the riffs.
14.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
(Grant)
Thanks for reaching out for this interview – we could not be happier with the response to the album so far.
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