Answered by vocalist Björn Larsson
1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new album?
Ever since the recording We've been busy rehearsing for future shows, hopefully sooner rather than later, preparing for the release, finding a new bass player, define our appearance, change logo etc. It's been a busy but fun couple of months.
2.You have a new album coming out in May, musically how does it differ from the stuff that you have released in the past?
Our previous release was a bit faster and guitar-oriented, I'd say. The symphonic elements that the upcoming album brings is an entirely different beast, and the mid-tempo in general works wonders for the upcoming songs. It's a diverse album but with a more synchronized feel all through, I'd say.
3.Your lyrics and the band's name comes from Norse Mythology and the Eddas, can you tell us a little bit more about how you got interested in this topic and decide to form a band based upon this lyrical concept?
We've always been interested in our mythological heritage, and through all our suggestions We all felt that the style of music We created suited perfectly to give the hymns of old norse faith justice. It's a rich and deep lore to dive into and We've barely scratched the surface of all to come.
4.Do you have have an interest in the other mythologies or paganism that are presented on the world?
Of course! One of the members, guitarist Kjell, studies myths and religion for a job, and as for myself I've been told stories and legends from all around the world since I was a toddler. I love the classical greek, sami, chinese and egyptian mythology of course, but the one that's caught my attention lately is mongolian legends and shamanistic throat-singing.
5.Musically what is that that you feel makes you stand out among other Viking metal bands?
We're not a viking metal band by definition, rather a powerdeath group with nordic mythology in the lyrical theme. But I believe our different musical backgrounds combined with our passion for the symphonic grandeour makes for an overwhelming experience that helps us stand out amongst our kin. It's easy to get into and hard to let go. I'd also say that the story-telling is a concept that's surprisingly quite small in the area, so as a consistent theme I'd say We're in our own league.
6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
The artwork was done by Alex Rommel and it shows a shamanistic ritual where the beasts within are finally released. The monsters depicted are the norse beasts Jormungadr, Fenris and Nidhoggr, all represented on the album with one track each. To me it represents the everlasting struggle within to maintain your inner demons, your darker side, and that nothing is straight forward but more of a grey blur once you look at the detailed perspectives a bit deeper.
7.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
My best memory was actually a birthday show for a common friend and also the closest fans. But overall We all love the live scene and can't wait to get back in full force! On stage We become the beacons of the Aesirs and dive directly into our ancestral roles, fully immersed in entertainment and to become one with the feeling our music creates.
8.Do you have any touring or show plans once the pandemic ends?
We've had some offers, but since the entire pandemic situation is so rocky at the moment We really can't nail anything down. Rest assured that our musical raids will commence the second this pandemic is over!
9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of viking, folk, melodic black and death metal?
We have truly devoted and amazing fans, and many of them have become our close friends. We can't really express the extent of gratitude and how humbled We are by the worldwide response for our hymns. Everyone seems to find a piece that they enjoy in our music, and all thanks to the previous statement about the members different musical backgrounds.
10.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame would be nice, haha! No, but We wish to continue to spread our music and the pagan flame to honour both the old gods and our magnificent audience all around the world. We always discuss the future, song ideas, themes, inspiration etc, so the future of the band is bright, active and on full steam ahead!
11.What are you currently listening to nowadays? As for me, a bit of everything. I can go for some Mozart or God is an Astronaut for a chilled-out experience, Majestica and Falconer for a more epic theme of the day and of course a ton of melodic death and folk metal, too many to mention. All-time favorite is still Equilibrium - Sagas.
12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Odin give thanks to all that reads this and give us a reason to keep making music! Our own interest and our horde is the reason shield to shield why We do this and wish to continue to do for many years to come! Hope to all our Einherjars and Valkyries that our upcoming chapter will be memorable and everlasting, and hope to see you all on a liveshow in a close future! Hail our hordes! Hail ADifferentShadeOfBlackMetalZine! Hail The Shadow Chapter! Hail the hymn-weavers! Hail Havamal!
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