Dark End Interview

1. Can you give us an update on what is going on with the band these days?
Hi there to everyone! At the moment we are preparing our live show for the upcoming Russian tour with Marduk, Vader & Kataklysm and, in addition to this, we are writing a lot of new material for our 4th album.

2. How would you describe the musical sound of the new album and how it differs from the older recordings?
Hmm, it’s quite complex. For me DARKEND are the pure expression of what I use to call “OBSCURE HORROR METAL”: there, you can find dark and melancholic extreme metal tightly combined with black metal patterns, classical symphonies and sulphur heavy riffs in the vein of Mercyful Fate/Angel Witch together with bleak ecclesiastic compositions, harmonies directly taken from the gloomy and dramatic theatrical representation of the XVIII century, straight melodic straight guitar solos and some atmospheric nocturne ambience.
Concerning “Grand Guignol – Book I”, well… it’s not a simple album but a real theatrical representation in which music, graphics, conceptual histories and lyrics complete themselves to create a whole parallel dimension: it’s more structured, more dramatic and more atmospheric than the previous albums. With it we tried to bring the most characteristic parts of our sound to their extreme point: so, what has to be aggressive is very aggressive, what has to be dark and melancholic is even more dark and melancholic, and so on.

3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
The ideological substrate of DARKEND is deeply related to Philosophy, Magic, Psychology, Occultism... and on a more general level, I can say that all of our songs are strongly connected to everything that is mysterious, unknown, bleak and horrorific, topics through which we activate a profound inner-ritual to investigate and at the same time to express our Souls. Lyrically, this third opus takes its moves from a conscious and profound esoteric research exploring through a rich narrative plot the common roots of occultism and spiritualism, self-martyrdom and black magic ceremonies. There, behind the curtain, you will hear a conceptual tale of sanctified sins and loathed purity, of mercy and murder, of gentle wickedness and dismal virtue, where everything is melted with its contrary: a theatre of abominations in which humanity roams unconscious of the highest cosmos’ secrets.

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?
The name DARKEND incarnates everything that is occult and obscure, intended as a strong fascination that gives us strength and inspiration. The end wrapped in darkness, the abyss, the unknown that opens its doors on mystery, on fantasy and on a dreamlike dimension.
In addition, our name hides an esoteric anagram that will be probably revealed in the lyrics of our 5th album.

5. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and how would you describe your stage performance?
There has been a lot of great live shows, especially the ones during our European tours supporting Rotting Christ and then Samael, Melechesh & Keep Of Kalessin. In particular the fans from Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, Bulgaria and the other eastern countries were amazing and they directly contributed to render these  shows very special.
About our live performances I can say that concerts are one of the most important part of the DARKEND philosophy: we live them as genuine ceremonies of darkness and horror where every suggestion and feeling is amplified with the use of some scenic elements such as pentagrams, candles, bleak masks, incense and dead branches, all dropped in a strong theatrical and grand guignolesque interpretation. As you can see, it is not a simple show; it is a proper and real ritual.

6. Do you have any touring plans for the new release?
Yes, on May the 15th we will leave for Russia to start there the first part of the “Grand Guignol” tour, supporting great bands such as Marduk and Vader. Then we will probably take part to some Summer Festivals and then, at the beginning of Autumn, we will schedule the second part of the tour.

7. Currently you are signed to Crash And Burn Records, how did you get in contact with this label and how would you describe the support that they have given you so far?

8. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of symphonic black metal?
The feedback has been fantastic thus far. We are collecting superb reviews (most of them are full rating) almost everywhere  and also the comments that we found on some forums are fantastic. This is really great, it goes beyond my best expectations!

9. Are there any other projects besides this band or is this a full time line up?
Some of the band members such as Valentz and Antarktica have some side projects, but of course DARKEND stand as a priority for all of us.

10. What direction do you see your music heading into on future releases?
It will be a natural progression of what DARKEND are today. Even from “Assassine” to “Grand Guignol” there has been the introduction of new element (such as Gregorian chants, clean vocals..) and I think that we will continue to experiment on that way, trying to render our music even more impressive, vivid and theatrical. We will work a lot on new atmospheres, in strict connection to the different conceptual themes that we will deal with, that’s for sure.

11. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Hmm, quite difficult to say because everyone of us listen to a lot of music and have different musical tastes. Among the genres that can be considered building block for DARKEND I would name black metal of bands such as Emperor, Burzum, Mayhem, Limbonic Art, the occult-oriented NWOBHM (with bands like Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, Angel Witch), classical music of the XIX century, dark/doom metal and obscure music (Sopor Aeternus And The Ensemble Of Shadows to name one of its maximum exponents).
Regarding my musical tastes, I listen to everything listen before plus a lot of progressive prom the ’70 (King Crimson, Yes, Genesis, Van Der Graaf Generator..), ambient/ritual music, classic and death metal..

12. How would you describe your views on Occultism?
I am a lot interested in it, I read a lot and I do a lot of researches, not only concerning  Magic but even Philosophy, Astronomy and Psychology, doctrines that I consider really related to the occult and esoteric side of existence. Magic as a way to see what not everyone can see, Magic as a way to express the greatness of your Soul in all its splendour.

13. Outside of music what are some of your interests?
Oh well, I can really be defined a music-addicted, so a lot of my time is dedicated to music, not only in relation with DARKEND: I love to search and discover new bands, buy and collect their CDs and stuff like that. Beside this I love literature (I read a lot) and cinema, especially concerning horror movies.

14. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?
I thank you too for your strong support, for the space granted to DARKEND and for the beautiful words you spent on the “Grand Guignol” review… THANK YOU! I hope to see you soon, all of you! In the meanwhile… keep on spreading our obscure Cult of Horror!

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Meth Assassin/Reptilian Side of God/Terratur Possessions/2019 CD Review

 Meth  Assassin  are  a  band  from  the  Netherlands  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black  metal,  industrial,  witchhouse  and  horrorcore  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2019  album  "Reptillian  Side  Of  God"  which  was  released  by  Terratur  Possessions.



  Electro-industrial  sound,  programmed  beats  and  synths  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  tortured  voices  also  being  utilized  briefly  which  also  gives  the  music  more  of  a  horror  movie  atmosphere. High  pitched  black  metal  screams  are  also  a  very  huge  part  of  the  recording  and  the  songs  also  add  in  elements  of  house  music.

  The  songs  also  mix  in  a  great  amount  of  pulsating  basses  while the  music  captures  the  atmosphere  and  darkness  of  an  occult  black  metal  album  without  adding  in  heavy  guitar  riffs.  When  spoken  word  parts  are  utilized  they  also  give  the  music  more  of  a  ritualistic  feeling  and  as  the  album  progresses  elements  of  witchhouse    are  also  added  onto  the  recording,  one  of  the  later  tracks  is  also  an  instrumental.

  Meth  Assassin  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black  metal,  industrial,  horrorcore  and  witchhouse  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Left  Hand  Path,  Occultism  and  Astral  Projection  themes. 

  In  my  opinion  Meth  Assassin  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black  metal,  industrial,  witchhouse  and  horrorcore  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Luciferian  Abyss"  "Reptillian  Side  Of  God"  and  "Invoking  The  Adversary".  8  out  of  10.

"Satanic Infiltrator" - https://soundcloud.com/terratvr-possessions/m3th-assassin-satanic-infiltrator
"Torrents of Ungodliness" - https://soundcloud.com/terratvr-possessions/m3th-assassin-torrents-of-ungodliness
      

Medieval Demon Interview

1.      Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new album?
- We are walking in the shadows,  into the caves and deep into the forests, in the same ritualistic ways that we did 20 years ago.
We worship the goat of lust that attacks the heavens with its horns!!!

2. In June you have a new album coming out, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording and also how does it differ from the stuff you released in the past?
- Our sound is to use and hit the darkest notes, under the fullmoon and  the light of the black candles, to lie together along the circle of the pentagram, in order to communicate with the spirits of the underworld and worship Satan. Medieval Necromancy is more obscure and occult from the stuff we released in the past.

3. You refer to your music as 'spiritual necromantic black metal', can you tell us a little bit more about this term?
                - We create  Black metal with divination from the dead.

4. Your lyrics go in depth with necromancy, black magick and Satanism, can you tell us a little bit more about your dedication to the dark arts?
- As individuals we are against Christianity and for decades we are dedicated ourselves to darkness and the black arts.

5. The band was broken up for 15 years, what was the cause of split and also the decision to reform?
- We wanted to isolate our souls and study the necromantic texts of the late Middle Ages, the medieval magic and occult practise. Now as a promethean fire we want to keep the black metal flames of Lucifer alive!

6. I remember reading a story in the mid 90's about one of the band members facing prison time, can you tell us a little bit more about what actually happened?
- Two members were suspected as vandals and stayed in prison for a few days as they had already a history of such acts in the past.

7. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Medieval Demon'?
- The name of the band came after the invocation of a demon.

8. Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
- It's a necromantic ritual in action. The great artist Mark Ridick made all our artwork. He is a true unholy brother.

9. What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
- We have performed 2 shows during the 90s. Our performance was old school and devoted to the black metal cult spirit.

10. Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?
- No. Exception would be only a night forest ceremony for  mystics and true Devil worshippers.

11. A couple of the band members also own a record store and a metal label, can you tell us a little bit more about it?
- Yes, brothers Lord Apollyon & Sirokous are the owners of Bowel of Noise records located in the centre of Athens, Greece. It's focused on extreme and satanic metal music. Sirokous also runs LVX INFERNVM  label &  Lord Apollyon ALTAR OF THE BLACK RAM.

12. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of black metal?
- We buried the band but the interest from the fans is still alive.

13. Where do you see the band heading into musically during future?
- We create only true black metal. No experimentations in our rituals!

14. 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?
- Many bands from the past such as old Samael, old Master's Hammer, old Bathory, old Darkthrone, old Gorgoroth, old Morbid Angel, old Mayhem, Grave, Dark Funeral,  Profanatica, Demoncy, old Rotting Christ, old Necromantia, old Ancient Rites, Malefic Oath, Engraved, old Immortal, Tormentor, Impaled Nazarene, Beherit, Sarcofago, Mutilator, Sextrash, Funereal Moon, Goblin, Antonius Rex, Jacula, Coven, Aphrodite's Child - 666, The Black etc.

15. Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
- Oh Satan, Spirit of the Earth, God of Liberty, open wide the gates of Hell
And come forth from the abyss...

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Sarcasm/Mourninghoul/Hammerheart Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Sarcasm  are  a  band  from  Sweden  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  very  melodic  form  of  blackened  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Morninghoul"  which  will  be  released  in  April  by  Hammerheart  Records.

  A  very  fast,  heavy  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  blast b eats.  Vocals  are  mostly  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  music  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  death  emtal  elements  as  well  as  all  of t he  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  Classical  guitars  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  keyboards  as  well a s  the  album  also  having  its  brutal  moments,  operatic  female  vocals  and  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly

  On  this  recordingf  Sarcasm  gets  a  lot  more  diverse  with  their  melodic  style  of  blackened  death  metal.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  a  concept  album  based  upon  based  upon  a  two-minded  ghoul  and  it's  journey  through  its  miserable  existence  upon  Earth  and  the  abyss.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Sarcasm  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  blackened  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  'As  Northern  Gates  Open"  "Dying  Embers  On  Solitude"  and  "Absence  From  Reality".  8  out  of  10.

   https://youtu.be/hWGgoWAkoXk

https://sarcasm.lnk.to/mourninghoul

https://www.facebook.com/sarcasmsweden

http://sarcasmsweden.se  .

Hysteria Interview

 

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new album?

1- Hysteria is a Lyon-based Death/Black quartet formed in 1996. We have 2 EPs + 3 LPs under our belt, and we've just released our 6th misdeed titled "HERETIC, SADISTIC AND SEXUAL ECSTASY..." on Adipocères records. This new album consists of 9 tracks and apparently, according to feedback and initial reactions, it's the album of consecration. We hope that with the release of this opus, we can achieve the recognition we've always hoped for.

2.In 2024 you have a new album coming out, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

2- Hysteria's musical evolution didn't happen overnight; we've been playing together for almost 30 years now. We've been both actors and fans of extreme metal since our adolescence. The metal scene evolves, and unconsciously, I think we absorb that, we change, we're influenced by what we listen to while still maintaining and evolving our own style. That's what I think makes us unique because if you listen to our discography, you'll realize that no album is alike, but you always find the Hysteria touch. This new opus has more Black metal tones than in the past. It's a logical continuation from its predecessor.

3.This is also your first release since 2019, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?

3- We had dates planned to promote our EP that was just released: "From the abyss… to the flesh," but the pandemic halted our momentum. Unlike almost all other bands, I don't think this period was particularly productive musically for Hysteria. Sure, we started composing our new album, but the process was slow. Because of the distance between us and travel restrictions during this time, I'd say we spent the little time we could see each other celebrating because we were so happy to be together again.

We're not professionals, so we don't have any pressure in that regard; it's not our job, it's a genuine passion. We don't force things; we're a group of friends above all. But at some point, you have to get back into it, and that's what we've done since then!

We also made appearances at some events because we really missed the stage. We played at MUSCADEATH again; our first appearance was over 15 years ago, and it was really great. That festival is awesome! We also played at the Mennecy Festival right in the middle of recording "Heretic...". We were able to start testing some new tracks live in the process!

4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the newer release and also how would you describe your progress as songwriters over the years?

4- The lyrics are written by myself (Xavier: drummer). It's a mixture of horrifying, sexual, unhealthy tales, fantasies, fictionalized personal experiences... A sort of psychoanalysis, an outlet allowing me to exorcise my demons by feeding off my malaise. A narrative of what this world in perdition has to offer us. I think we seek to shock through our lyrics, our visuals, and also our music. The daily censorship through these modes of thinking, these emerging ideological currents, pushes us precisely to spit out our venom! We don't have any particular message to convey... It's just a statement of fact; by reading the lyrics, I think the reader can relate to certain experiences. A line like "she who spits the Venom" speaks of a person I met who left traces and caused torment in my life.

The topics addressed in this opus may be more contemporary and may denounce more things than in the past. They're also more direct and less verbose than in the past, to facilitate the placement of the lyrics on the music.

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

5- Nothing special! We were teenagers and looking for a name; we grabbed a dictionary and stumbled upon it! If we had to do it again, we would change it! You google "Hysteria," you come across Def Leppard's album, Muse's song and the French band Mass Hysteria! It's going to be difficult to be more renowned than these three!

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

6- We asked Seth Siro Anton who had already created 2 covers, a mutilated woman on a cross with tentacles entwining her. We also wanted him to be influenced by the title, which is quite evocative, and that's the final result! Our best cover to date! We made some great t-shirts, jackets, sweaters... in color! The merchandising, the digipack, and the vinyl are magnificent!

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?

7- The best memory we have, I think, was playing with Dissection during their tour to promote "Reinkaos," the only and last one! We put on a great performance that night, and meeting Jon Nodtveidt, the legend of Swedish black metal, was an honor for us! We were all still fans of Dissection! For a little story, we had filmed our show and Dissection's, and the tour manager made us erase the tapes of Dissection's show!

8.Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?

8- We just had our release party where we played the new album in its entirety plus some bonuses. We're playing in June at the Lions Metal Fest, but fate has struck us because our lead guitarist Jérôme just had a skiing accident and has injuries that will render him unavailable for a while. Otherwise, we will probably play at a festival this summer as the opening act for a renowned band we love; we're keeping our fingers crossed for that to happen. Otherwise, the real dates will probably come in September when Jérôme is recovered

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

9- I'll respond exactly with a comment from a recent review we had! "Once the surprise has worn off, Hysteria’s stylistic shift remains very confident. From a massive Brutal Death that I described as a "steamroller" a few months ago, the band now offers us a melodious, impressive Black/Death that bewitches us in an instant."

10.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

10- We don't know! We'll go wherever the wind takes us! There's so much to do and so little time! We'll first digest this album and promote it as it should be! After that, in 2026, we'll be celebrating our 30th anniversary, so there will certainly be a follow-up to Heretic!

11.Does Occultism play any role in your music?

11- No, I don't really think so! We don't practice that kind of belief.

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

12- Thank you for these great questions! Sorry for the delay, but the album is a huge success, and there are a lot of demands to answer. To the readers, go give a listen to our latest album; apparently, it's "transcendent" according to our fans and the reviews!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfIP0Amzu8k

Thulcandra/A Dying Wish/Napalm Records/2021 Full Length Review

 

  Thulcandra  are  a  band  from  Germany  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of t heir  2021  album  "A  Dying  Wish"  which  will  be  released  on  October  29th  by  Napalm  Records.

  Acoustic  guitars  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  melodic  guitar  leads  a  few  seconds  later  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.  When  the  music  speeds  up a   decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  as  well  as  the  music  also  showing  some  influences  of  the  classic  90's  Swedish  style.

  Tremolo  picking  is  also  added  into  some  of  the  faster  riffing  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  The  music  also  mixing  in  elements  of  the  more  melodic  side  of  death  metal  along  with  both acoustic  and  classical  guitars  also  return  on  some  of  the  later  tracks  as  well  as  a  couple  of  brief  instrumentals,  when  synths  are  utilized  they  also  give  the  music  more  of  an  atmospheric  feeling  and  both  of  the  closing  songs  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Death  and  Darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Thulcandra  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Funeral  Pyre"  "Nocturnal  Heresy"  "A  Shining  Abyss"  and  "A  Dying  Wish".  8  out  of  10.

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https://youtu.be/w9_85TqVQ6Y

  

  

       

Chaossworn Interview

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have never heard of you before?

ANTON: Chaossworn is a melodic death/black metal band from Haparanda, northern Sweden. We've been active since the fall of 2004, under the moniker Cryptic Death. The name was changed to Chaossworn in late 2009. We have just released our first MCD called 'Chalice of Black Flames' through Abyss Records.



ANDREAS: Me and Janne played together in various bands/projects back in the 90s, so in a sense Chaossworn dips its rotten roots further back in the dark past!



JANNE: Yup; we’ve been brooding and slithering in the local underground for the last 15 years, but not until now has our message and force become strong enough to be unleashed upon the larger masses. Years and years of honing our skills in the dark are starting to pay off. Now if only we could get David Hasselhoff interested...



2. How would you describe your musical sound?



ANDREAS: Death metal foundation, black metal ambience, heavy metal catchiness. Black/death metal; people should know what it means these days. Heavy emphasis on lead guitar work and harmonies to act counterpoint to non-melodic vocals. Absolutely no happy riffs.



3. What is the meaning behind the band's name?



JANNE: It should be quite clear. We are sworn to Chaos, as opposed to Law. Chaos represents boundless creativity and infinite possibilities, which the strong-willed may utilize to his or her needs or wants. Law stands for conformity and slavery of the mind; it is for the weak who can not, or will not, stray away from the safe path of herd mentality that slowly but surely grinds and forces everyone into the same mold. And as one of the main principles of the band, if not the only one, is to do what the fuck we want - well, I just think that we've found ourselves the perfect name.



4. How would you describe the lyrical content of the music?



ANDREAS: Depends on the song really, since they deal with various subjects, or aspects of those subjects.. It ain't about no urban themes. No matter what the lyrics are about, they're an integral part of the music, and given as much attention in the writing process as the riffs themselves. Phrasings, meter, all that shit, given utmost attention. We're not dishing out tripe.



5. Have you had the opportunity to do any live shows yet, if so what are some of the best shows that the band has played so far?

ANTON: We have been playing live since the start as Cryptic Death. I would say our best show was at Nordic Rage festival in Boden 2008, w/ The Haunted, Carnal Forge, etc..



ANDREAS: The gig we did back in January this year, in Lulea, was pretty intense. Parts of which can be seen on Youtube. Still, Nordic Rage Fest was definitely the biggest in terms of crowd and exposure.



NIKLAS: The black/death metal scene in northern Sweden is not the greatest, but we played a show in Boden on a metal festival called Nordic Rage, which was for me the greatest show!



6. Do you have any touring plans for the future?




ANDREAS: South America; The water gives you the runs, crowd is batshit insane, nobody speaks English. Pandemonium. I heard Poland is pretty kickass too.



JANNE: I think it’d be cool to tour in Kyrgyzstan, or Mongolia. Man, those guys would be astonished to have us banging and snarling at their local yard/palace/mountaintop/whatever. And probably kill us too. Or die trying.



7. What do you want to accomplish with your music?



ANDREAS: I want the music to become as kult as the shit I listen to myself.



JANNE: To me, creating music is first and foremost a tool for self-expression, without which I could not live. Sowing the seeds of the mind, nourishing them with skill and craftsmanship, watching and hearing them grow and blossom in the dark orchards of the spirit of arts, tasting the bittersweet juices from their ripe flesh...thus inspiring the circle to start anew. It is a beautiful thing, creation, and we hold it in our hands. Hopefully our music can also inspire others, as many have inspired us before, and still do. The cycle is most exquisite, and should be kept spinning.



8. What direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?



ANDREAS: We got our sound down just right. What we will do in the future is to produce even fiercer riffs, better hooks, better lyrics and wrap it up time and time again. The material evolved from the last two demos to the MCD growing increasingly darker and unfriendly, and that'll likely continue. Without ambition there's no point in doing anything, and I got plenty ambition. We're destined to outdo ourselves time and time again. Don't expect any genre leaps a la Dodheimsgard.



9. How has the feedback been to your music so far by melodic black.death metal fans worldwide?




ANDREAS: We wouldn't release it if it wasn't up to snuff. Reviewers agree!

NIKLAS: Mixed. People in Sweden have been more critical than the rest of the world. Dunno why is that.



10. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and what are you listening to nowadays?



ANTON: Bloodbath, Desultory and Necrophobic, and of course bands from other genres.





ANDREAS: Been listening to Tiamat “Clouds” a lot lately. I got a few tapes in the car getting regular windings: Bathory "Blood Fire Death", Darkthrone "Under a Funeral Moon", ZZ Top "Eliminator" etc.



NIKLAS: Old school death metal bands like Desultory and Morbid Angel.



JANNE: All music influences me all the time. The atmosphere of Limbonic Art and Emperor; the creativity of Faith No More and Meshuggah; the vibe of Kingston Wall and Änglagård; the harmonizing craft of Bach and Rachmaninoff; the earnestness of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Grand Magus etc etc...I could go on for ages.



11. Does Satanism or Occultism play any role in the music?

ANDREAS: Yes.

JANNE: Yes.



12. What are some of your interests outside of music?

ANDREAS: I'm a history scholar.

NIKLAS: Drinking beer and go to festivals!

JANNE: NHL, literature and whiskey.

ANTON: Sound engineering and sailing.


13. Any final words or thoughts?

ANDREAS: You can't stop rock n roll.

JANNE: Fuck the Law.

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Shadu-Nar-Mattaru Interview

 

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

CLAY - It's a continuation of what we've been doing over the last 32 years - extreme metal.

CHRIS - There were some periods of inactivity with us during that time with a few efforts to get back at it and in 2019 all the planets aligned.

2.Recently you have released your first full length, musically how does it differ from your previous ep's?

CLAY - I put my heart and soul into this album and a little bit of my life, too.  This album is a natural progression from the eps.

CHRIS - As Clay put it, the album is a natural progression.  The main difference is some of the song writing elements i.e. structure, energy and whatnot.

3.A lot of your lyrics cover the writings of H.P Lovecraft and Weird Fiction, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in these writings?

CLAY - All my life I've had an interest in weird fiction and Lovecraft, etc.  I have always loved the dark side so it is natural that I write about it.

CHRIS - Lovecraft and many other writers in that vein all deal with the unknown, metaphysics, occultism, which is interesting to write about and think about.  The unknown is very thought provoking in general.

4.You also have some satanic and occult themes in some of your lyrics, do you have an interest in Occultism?

CLAY - I write the so-called 'satanic' lyrics.  I am not a devil worshipper.  I am anti-establishment.  I hate organized religion.  Religion and satanism is fantasy to Shadu-Nar-Mattaru.  The occult is fictional as well.  My interests come from my inner self but are fictional as well.

CHRIS - I touched on that in the previous question.  Satanic lyrics are kind of an old metal thing.  It's nothing serious.  I'd say we touched on those themes more as a nod to the old days on this album.  I don't really see us elaborating further on it for future efforts, though.

5.Both of the band members where previously a part of 'Morbid Darkness', what was the decision behind splitting up your previous band and forming this newer project?

CHRIS - Back in 1996 when Morbid Darkness originally dissolved, we were both young and in the midst of our own separate problems.  Unfortunately, those problems affected the band and we had to call it quits.  Like I said earlier, our hiatus was a lengthy one, but because we each felt we were destined to make music together we eventually decided to make it happen again, back in early 2019.  It's been a constantly blazing fire ever since.

6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Shadu-Nar-Mattaru'?

CLAY - In English it means 'mountains of the abyss'.  That's the meaning.

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

CHRIS - The image is a photo originally created by Elti Meshau and was reworked to add even darker elements.  Basically, it represents the journey of one in the throes of sorrow.

8.Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding the line up or do you prefer to remain a duo?

CLAY - We have always been a duo and always will be a duo.  We will not corrupt ourselves with other members.  It has always been just the two of us.

CHRIS - Yeah, we've established a dynamic as a duo since the beginning.  We've no plans to expand the line-up in order to play shows or anything...we are a studio band, simple as that.

9.Since 2019 you also have released a great amount of ep's, do the band members spend a great amount of time, writing and creating music?

CLAY - Yes.  We are like a treadmill.  With Shadu the creativity is ever flowing.

CHRIS - We've got a really great system for creative process which allows for very prolific output.

10.On the album you've also done a Slaughter cover, what was the decision behind doing your own version of one of their songs?

CLAY - I first heard Slaughter in 1986.  They are a favourite.  I always wanted to be in a band like Slaughter so it is only natural that we cover Slaughter now.  In fact, this is the second time we have covered a Slaughter song in Shadu.

CHRIS - When we first heard the song on the 'Surrender or Die' demo, back in 1992, we both agreed that someday we would cover it.

11.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of underground?

CLAY - It has been okay, but it could be better.  The main thing is what it means to us.

CHRIS - There has been limited interaction with fans aside from locals who dig our stuff, but this is really a problem of limited exposure.  The small feedback we have received has been quite positive.

12.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that the band members are part of?

CHRIS - I've always got some other musical projects cooking in the background.  Shadu is the main focus, obviously, but I can say there may be a new Vhod album in the near future and few other smaller things.

13.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

CLAY - We are presently working on our epic 'Nocturnal Winter III' saga, then comes the new year and we're headed into the unknown.  All I can say is that it will be heavy as hell and it will be Shadu.

CHRIS - Yeah.  Basically, as it sits, we plan to do more eps and perhaps a second full length next fall.

14.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?

CLAY - With me, it's mainly still what I've been listening to for the last 35-40 years.  I haven't changed much since the 80s.  Those days influence me and that's what I'm still listening to nowadays.

CHRIS - Obviously I'm not going to list them all, but back in the day, all the good metal of the 80s and early 90s was key - a few musicians that really got me going were Mike Scaccia of Rigor Mortis and Mantas of Venom...Quorthon, too.  These days hold just as many influences for me personally.  Bands such as Revocation, Watain, Humanity's Last Breath, Bulletbelt, Rosy Finch...these are heavy influences for me.

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

CLAY - I really appreciate the interview and the support and I thank anyone out there who has checked out Shadu.  Thanks a million and stay heavy.

CHRIS - Yeah, we appreciate it and look out for new Shadu stuff real fucking soon.  Cheers!

Bandcamp:https://shadu-nar-mattaru. bandcamp.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ people/Shadu-Nar-Mattaru/ 100073984778040/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/ UCmrzOavOhlit38QiGpsPk9A

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/ artist/4pcZC55m6rKuZO5buGCtuk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadunarmattaru/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShaduNarMattaru

Thousand Year War Interview

1. Can you give us an update on what is going on with the band these days?
We had a line up change right before the official release of our debut
'Tyrants and Men'
Kellen who had played bass/guitar and helped with songwriting was
removed from the band for personal reasons and I took on Pablo
Magallanes(Guitar/Bass- Live Demonical, Live Internment) and am using
our session drummer from the first album, Fredrik Widigs(Live
Drums-Witchery, Live Drums-Demonical, The Ugly, Ex- Angrepp)

I just finished working on 5 new songs and a misfits cover of London
Dungeon for an EP entitled "Vulture Eyes"
The artwork is in the process is being finished and I believe Pablo
and Fredrik will be recording soon and I will be jumping into the
studio once that is all done for vocals. Right now its a pretty hard
time for me. Just moved back to the states and really struggling hard
to keep my head afloat and get Thousand Year War live. Trying to push
for a mini tour in the States!

2. How would you describe the musical sound of the new album?

Its much much different....The influences are significantly more
subtle than Tyrants and Men and I doubt anyone will be thinking of
Amon Amarth when listening to the new tunes. Its very rocking and dark
metal! Title track vulture eyes almost has this black'n'roll feel to
it and its a really catchy song. Then you have Sombre as the Nightly
Shrouds is very dark, slow, but with riffs that really hook you in,
while bloodlines just rips you apart with aggression and melody. My
vocal approach is also much different in that Im straying away from
the lows while using mainly highs and a sort of low gravely singing
voice ....its very original but also fits the songs really well. When
you think some of the riffs are poppy my vocals will come in to being
a certain darkness and desperation to the mix.

3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explore with
the music?

The lyrical topics all have to do with opposition of Government, world
leaders, and organized religion. My lyrics hold as much importance as
to the music I write. I believe in every single word I write down!
When I look around I see a people that are being warped and
manipulated to function under control of the ruling powers. It is
really disheartening and dispiriting, but also inspirational as far as
lyrics are concerned. Seems like people are becoming the product the
new world order wants them to be.

Here is an excerpt from a new song Vulture Eyes that I especially like:

Take in what you see, below your black wings, a kingdom built on ruin
now laid in tragedy

The founders of this land, lay buried in the waste, memories of them
now the legacy of hate

Betray all that you know, soar high above the lands, rip flesh from
all the bodies, in this country of the damned!


America is simply one of the foundations of a sadistic kingdom murder
obsessed and power hungry....our founders were nothing but villains
and theives with intent on building an empire of injustice, and the
best democracy money can buy

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?

The name Thousand Year War is inspired by the holy war the crusaders
waged close to a Thousand Years Ago and how that war or crusade is
simply continuing on in the Middle East and orchestrated by the
leaders of the United States, England, and other countries....so
Thousand Year War

5. Are there any touring plans for the future?

Absolutely....but none of its really solidified at all. I really need
some session guys in the U.S.A to work with and we need a booking
agency. I 100% want to get a tour going to spread the word, get some
funding coming in, and gather up a broader audience. Desperately want
to get the music live in Europe. I hope summer 2012....

6. On a worldwide level how has your music been recieved by melodic
death/black metal fans?

It seems like its been very well received so far! I'm happy with the
response. There have been the typical Amon Amarth comparisons, but
everything has been real positive. Abyss Records and Clawhammer PR are
really doing a good job getting the word out there...I hear from
people all over the world that are enjoying the sound of TYW:)

7. Are there any projects besides this band or is this a full time line-up?

For me my focus is Thousand Year War right now...I just don't have
any time or energy for anything else. I have 2 kids and am married, so
this is plenty for me to concentrate on. Although I would do vocals
for anyone wanting someone to lay down some tracks studio wise of
course. Long as its just writing lyrics and and doing vocals I would
gladly take part in something else. But writing guitars takes a lot
out of me and I want to just do that in TYW. I really could see myself
eventually working on some old school black metal with an eerie
atmosphere. Something like Arckanum/Wolves in the Throne Room,
Gorgoroth. I enjoy alot of raw but well produced black metal. Its
great art and expression of the natural world.

8. What direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?

I see TYW taking on a sort of more black metal style and very
emotional.....a lot of feeling and depth. Sort of taking a step away
from the Swedish Death Metal while circling around it and embracing
certain elements of it. There is something very original in this
upcoming Vulture Eyes but its hard to say exactly what it is, if that
makes sense. I think I am finding our very own style....which is a
great thing!

9. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and
also what are you listening to nowadays?

Some bands that have influenced my music are Old Man's Child, Amon
Amarth, In Battle, Rotting Christ, Satariel, Composer Phillip
Glass...to name a few. But now I really don't find bands as being an
influence anymore. Feelings, anger, hope, despair, the great
wilderness, wars, human emotion, these are all being translated into
TYW's music.

Nowadays I am enjoying Astriaal, Cradle of Filth's new album,
Summoning,Heaven and Hell, Dio, Gorgoroth, Windir, the Misfits,
Primordial, Iron Maiden, Arckanum, Three Inches of Blood, Demonical,
Diabolical, Bane(BM band), Nordman, and some traditional scandinavian
folk.

There is this style of music called Deathcore and I FUCKING HATE IT.
Can't wait until it passes. Its just a stupid trend and a pissing
contest to see how complicated of a shit ass riff you can write and
throw together in one huge shit pile of a song. uhggg
Hopefully those bandana wearing, above the knee shorts sporting, penny
picking model styled half assed long haired d bags dance their dumb
asses out of the metal scene and onto the next dumb ass trend.
Necrophagist chartered those territories years before this trend with
tasteful songwriting and skill. Get a clue!

10. Does Paganism play any role in your music?
.
No, not at all. To me paganism is just a spin off of modern day
Christianity. They both feed off each other and I find them both
unappealing and just a tool used by people to control other people.
Concerning spirituality what I find I find attractive is the movements
by buddhist, tibetan monks, and the ways and beliefs of native
americans and other native tribes throughout the world. Power and
positivity through our minds is more impressive than having somebody
shove a bible, koran, or whatever and tell you what to believe and
think.

11.Outside of music what are some of your interests?

My interest is first of all my two kids and wife.....and I love being
out in old growth forests and away from people. I'm pretty much
obsessed with Disc Golf in a big way. Play at least an hour or more a
day...its a great game once you get really into it! I like studying
about Freemasonry, natural medicine, illuminati,ancient alien
existence, and any and all lost or deceased civilizations. We have so
much to learn from these people if we approach them with an open mind.
Used to do subsistence fishing in Alaska which I really
enjoyed....basically anytime I can hunt and gather I'm truly happy.

12. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?

I would like to thank you very much for the priviledge of this
interview!! If you enjoy TYW's music please purchase a cd from me
through paypal@ thousandyearwar@gmail.com 11$ including shipping(send
shipping info!)
And of course support our label and buy TYW Merch/CD's and other great
abyss records bands @ http://www.officialabyssrecords.com
Download our demo for free at http://www.thousandyearwar.com and
'Like' TYW at http://facebook.com/tyrantsandmen
Check out http://www.infowars.com for more info on the New World
Order......HAILS!!!

Executus/The Black Thrones of Chaos Abandoned/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Executus  are  a  band  from  Australia  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  thrash  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2023  album  "The  Black  Thrones  Of  Chaos  Abandoned".

  Clean  playing  and  keyboards  start  off  the  album before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  melodic  musical  direction.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  thrash  emtal  elements  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  lot  of  blast  beats.

  Death  metal  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

  The  album  also  adds  in  some  touches  of  traditional  metal  at  times  along  with  one  song  also  being  an  instrumental  as  well  as  one  track  also  introducing  clean  singing  onto  the  album,  one  track  is  also  long  and  epic  in  length.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  science  fiction  and  cosmic  horror  themes  with  some  inspiration  from  the  writings  of  H.P  Lovecraft.  

  In  my  opinion  Executus  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  thrash  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  " The  Lurker  At  The  Threshold"  "Behold!  A  Bloodstained  Sky"  "Invocation  of  the  Abyss"  and  "The  Worlds  Grave".  8  out  of  10.

  https://music.apple.com/au/album/escape-reality-ep/1272954327

https://executus.bandcamp.com/

https://www.facebook.com/executus

https://www.instagram.com/executus.adelaide/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4lLqBRUSaXXr0sUb8Rx5Gl

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXabWXEpLIupak9BuFnVVCg   

  

Vargrav Interview

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

The band originated during starless nights in late 2015.
As the vision calmly evolved and the cloak of obscurity relinquished, Vargrav was chosen to be illuminating sign for this act of black arts.
During the formative years, the music also transmitted into a profound abyss, only to reincarnate as a sinister glow of the black flame.
A demo version of the album was then unleashed during the summer of 2016,
and  after numerous contacts from different labels, Werewolf Records was immediately chosen to be the most suitable collaborator with which to work.
The overture of a black-hearted storm has been sung and what has yet left uncovered shall be conquered...

2.You have an album coming out in January, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?

After the two preview songs were published  I received a lot of feedback about the sound and overall atmosphere being very 90's.
I can't really say is it done intentionally or is it just subconsciousness. Nevertheless sounding 90's is purely logical as for me the golden age
of Blackmetal is in the early and mid '90's when everything around it was new to me. Naturally it's impossible to imitate first impressions
when I first time heard some of the classic albums but creating something as close to that as possible I can uphold the passion that ignited back then.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you explore with your music?

The topics alternate from unleashing the black storm of hellfire upon all living to glorifying the supremacy of an individual. In the middle a certain
multidimensional approach to reign the powers shackled by constricted knowledge of your capability.

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Vargrav'?

Varg (wolf) has been a feared beast among many cultures for centuries and  in the bible wolf is exclusively evil. Yet wolf has also been seen as a trailblazer
and a teacher. Grav (grave) is where you bury the dead (if someone didn't know) so as an coherence Vargrav is the rest where a bestial wisdom lurks only to rise again.
It's also a palindrome with 7 letters. A palindrome is endless and a continuum. After reaching the end the beginning is the new end.
7 is the number of complement. A number of time and space, representing wisdom, perfection, balance and immortality.

5.With this project you record everything by yourself, are you open to working with other musicians or do you prefer to work solo?

Compromises kill creativity and when working with others one cannot avoid them. So because of that simple fact I work solo on
all of my bands. Even if it demands a multiple amount of work I couldn't be satisfied with the result if it wouldn't be 100% based on my vision.
It would also be impossible to even think joining a band only as a player. I am a leader, not a follower.

6.On the album you had also done a cover of Emperor's "Ancient Queen", what was the decision behind doing your own version of one of their songs?

Since the first time i heard Emperor's "In The Nightside Eclipse" no other album has ever made such an impact. I could even call it an enlightenment as
in that same moment I knew exactly what I must do. It took me over 20 years to complete that task but time is irrelevant when creating timeless art.
When listening to "Ancient Queen" I've wondered so many times what it would sound like with more keyboards and some clean vocals as in "In the Nightside Eclipse" style.
So recording this cover was a perfect way to get my question answered.

7.The album is going to be released on 'Werewolf Records', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

The name basically tells it all. An unchained beast seeding terror and fear among those incapable to assimilate it's purposes.
An uncompromising monument of black arts.

8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of symphonic black metal?

As the current trend is pretty far from symphonic Blackmetal it seems that for many people it works as a stimulant ascending from the vast grey mass of thousand similar bands.

9.Are you also involved with any other bands or musical projects?

The only active band beside Vargrav at the moment is Druadan Forest - My first solo band which I started back in 1998 only to be put to rest for 17 years. 2016 I was finally ready to release the debut album "The Loremasters Time" via GS productions. The three demos
from ´98-´99 were also released as a compilation by the same label. The second full-length "The Lost Dimension" was released by Wolfspell records 2017. Also a split with The True Werwolf will be released in near future so check it out.

10.Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician in the future?

I try to evolve all the time. The point where you feel satisfied is the point where you can't advance any further and basically can forget any improvement from your past works.
I started musical studies back in the 80's and unfortunately quit after few years so I have a lot to catch up. In the future - if my efforts should pay off and I'll be able to move even a bit closer to the goals I've set, I see
myself as a full-time professional musician and composer.

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?

There are tons of bands that have influenced my but as said above Emperor has always been the most important and one of the few metal bands that have truly inspired me.
I've never actually seen myself as a metalhead, headbanger or such. Of course I've listened to metal for as long as I can remember but still never felt musically inspired by it.
I enjoy melodies, atmosphere, a sort of surreal soundscapes that I can feel being similar. Seceded from reality.
Nowadays I mostly listen to electronic music and soundtracks.

12.How would you describe your views on Occultism?

I am a Satanist.

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

Blackmetal is not for everyone.

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Bastion Interview

Answer: Dmitry (vocals, horns), Ivan (drums), Yuri (vocals, bass), Alexander (keyboards, accordion)

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?

Dmitry: After the release of the album several concerts in Moscow were played to support it. We also recorded a new song "Sumetskaya" based on an old Russian folk tune for a fight, and made live video for this song. We are going to present them in the near future. At the moment, we took a long pause to determine the further development of the concept and vector group.

2.Recently you have released a new album can you tell us a little bit more about the musical direction of the new recording and also how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

Ivan: we approached more responsibly to the record of a new album with a sound concept of music and visual album design. The first album is good in his own, but due to lack of experience, many errors were made during the recording process we tried to avoid on the new album. Music is fundamentally different, which is understandable since there were important changes in the band: in fact, composers were changed. New members added the diversity of folk instruments.

Alexander: and technically the group does not stand still. We wanted to play harder and more varied, while retaining the folk component, which is eventually happened. Besides lyrics also undergone a change in the direction of greater linearity and stiffness corresponding to modern realities. Everybody went all out and that is happened - the best at the moment that our group can offer.

3.In the beginning the band played in a more power metal direction, what was the decision behind going into a more heavier and darker direction?

Yuri: It was a natural desire of participants, which just went from the inside. Times change - changing ourselves. Events around us getting tougher and we react to them through our songs. Besides striving to give people a boost to opposition negative factors around us, and more hard music contributes a much better motivation!

Alexander: Probably heavy hammer of the current sound is better able to reach the minds and destroy the gate of indifference inhabitant than the previous chaotic whistling in the air power metal sword.

4.While there where a few demos released in the early 2000's the band waited until 2011 to put out their first album, can you tell us a little bit more about the gap between releases?

Ivan: As often happens - the young guys get together, with the idea to play a definite music, creativity abounds, but the case itself, which for some then becomes a matter of life, not yet filled with that sense and awareness that appear later with experience. Parties are formed around, people come and go and everything is fun. In such circumstances demo are being written, creating something which happens naturally, and the recording quality in mind - this is not working as recording full-length album. And then serious changes begin, time shows - what is the most important for someone. In our case, the whole complex of these problems is the reason of a temporary abyss. In fact, the tracks presented on "Dawn of Svarog" were written by different people of the first casts started recording the album some, already finished the others. In any case, the first release - it's important theme for us - we summed up the first step of forming a "Bastion" and paid tribute to the first participants who have at one time a huge contribution to the team.

5.The lyrics cover Slavic Paganism themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

Yuri: Actually it is not only about paganism. For us paganism - is primarily one of the pages in the history of our nation, undeservedly forgotten and rejected by modernity.

Alexander: This topic is, unfortunately, almost no coverage in the official history, though an integral and a very large part of it. This is done on purpose, because the modern religious system which promotes slavery, humility and non-countering to all the negative that we have now is beneficial to the state. While Slavic paganism promotes freedom and harmony with the environment, which is lacking in modern humanity.

Ivan: All this talks and debates about the validity of certain beliefs already pretty bored. I personally absolutely non-religious person. Paganism for me is a way of learning about the world, do not allow limitations. As a creative person, I want to breathe and absorb everything that gives us around the world - with its light and dark sides. Everything is subject to a single space, and feel one with it - that is my spiritual path. Everything else - the profanity and fictions of people wanting to subdue the crowd. If we talk about the topic of paganism in the works "Bastion", it gives us a basis for a deeper dive into a folk soul, not yet tainted by foreign elements, true love for our fatherland and unbreakable bond with her.

6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Bastion'?

Ivan: It's actually quite banal. Title was invented in the beginning and did not change. And then it was important to pick up a resounding suitable word for executable  music (power metal). Looked everywhere, thought, discuss different options were ... until at one point in a dictionary, it has caught the eye of "Bastion". We decided that it is well suited for it and stopped. Surprisingly, until now, given all the changes in our sound and style - it does not lose relevance. "Bastion" as used to stand, despite all external attacks, and will stand on its promise and carry listeners.

Yuri: "Bastion" is a serf fortification. That's you will not pass by our group so easily and not overcome hurriedly. In addition, as it is a defensive structure, as we stand on guard for our traditions and history.

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?

Dmitry: For me, the best concerts were in Minsk (Belarus) in 2011, the same year in St. Petersburg, together with Skyforger and the presentation of the new album in Moscow in February 2014. Our performance was described once the publication Casus Belli Zine as "Krasnoznamensk’s ruffians " (we are from a town called Krasnoznamensk). This definition accurately describes our behavior on stage: unbridled energy and conduct, which gets all the spectators and puts in a slam and mosh. We behave on stage completely uncharacteristic of typical pagan metallers. It is worth a look!

8.Do you have any touring or show plans for the future?

Dmitry: No plans for performances, because, frankly, no one is calling us to play)). And especially not arranges tours. Promote our own music as we can.

9.The new album was released on Der Schwarze Tod, can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

Ivan: Der Schwarz Tod - this label of Nebokray’s (Небокрай) vocalist, whose participants are also some people from "Bastion." Our first release, by the way, also came out with the help of this label. At this stage, we are completely satisfied with the cooperation with them, label does not stand still, builds momentum, increasing the number of released versions, well, then we all communicate closely, so we do everything together (for details on the release and distribution of Der Schwarz Tod you can learn here - https://www.facebook.com/DerSchwarzeTod).

10.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your newer music by fans of underground, extreme, pagan and folk metal?

Dmitry: At the international level only positive feedback there are. And ordinary listeners and music critics have praised our effort and work.

http://www.metalhead.it/?p=27511 (7.5 \ 10 from Italy)

http://www.folk-metal.nl/2013/12/bastion-vremya-borby-2013/ (7 \ 10 from Netherlands)

http://www.metalsoundscapes.com/archives/12137/bastion-vremya-borby (9 \ 10 from Greece)

http://nocturnemagazine.net/recenzije/1704/- #. Uxn8cND. (8 \ 10 from Serbia)

5 \ 5 from Dark City magazine (leading magazine about heavy music in Russia)

11.Are any of the band members involved with any other musical projects these days?

Dmitry: Guitarist Konstantin involved in the group Lepta (Лепъта) and has recently been helping our friends from the group Krada (Krada). Ivan and Yuri are permanent band members Nebokraj, just as I wrote Flute for Nebokraj on a new mini-album. Personally, I'm studying ancient Russian traditional music and have a project under this "Kudeyar» (Кудеяр).

Ivan: Just trying to help our friends and colleagues on the stage - this notorious group Temnozor, Krada Moscow, there was collaboration with a group of Wolf Cross and other groups.

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?

Yuri: First of all of course it is the traditional Russian folk music and our folklore in general. Then folk metal and black metal. Not without modern alternatives (hardcore, rapcore). I always like listening to The Exploited and Oi, RAC, melodic death, pagan metal.

Ivan: I've been listening to different music at different stages of my life, so that all affected little. Recently returned to the nu-metal and alternative - Limp Bizkit, Korn, Soulfly ... Before this was mostly hardcore. Quoted old Black Sabbath - the greatest band of all time! At one time the strongest influence was the Norwegian black metal - in the face of all known, the brightest of its representatives. If we talk about the lighter characters, the Iron Maiden - always on my top list! Guys from Manowar - just to display .. always appreciated the music drive and some wildness or atmospherics and some detachment. Here it all and entwined.

Alexander: Everything, classic rock, pumping heavy music, all that helps to push, tug, squat and run.

Dmitry: First, there was punk rock, then grew up on classic heavy metal, then symphonic black metal, nu-metal, alternative, hard core. Now I listen to any good music, be it pop, elektro, rap or metal. I generally like music as itself and no matter what style it is. Among the groups in my track sheet are always 3 Doors Down, Limp Bizkit, Chimaira, Nickelback, Drowning Pool, Hatebreed, Deftones, Dry Kill Logic, Creed, Devildriver, Deadlock, Lamb of God. Lately listening downtempo, melodic drum'n'bass, embient, and of course the Russian ethnographic folklore.

13.What are some of your non musical interests?

Ivan: Besides music, are actively engaged in sport - gym, martial arts, boxing, football. Participate in mass jogging and other sports promotions aimed at the proper development of young people. Interested in car and motorcycle industry. Course literature - both classical art and popular science, mostly historical. Just interested in the issues of doing business in the Russian complex realities. Besides all this, everyone has a basic work, half of a group have family with young children - so do not have to miss.

Alexander: HLS (healthy lifestyle): rocking, girls, bike, skiing. J

Yuri: I think the consensus is said rocking. With regard to myself, rocking, history of his native country, its peoples, politics. About family and parenting does not say that because even though it takes the lion's share of the time, it can not be called hobby. This is the fucking life!)

Dmitry: each participant involved in sports, as possible participate in public life. I love an active lifestyle, cars and motorcycles, guns, outdoor recreation, longer hikes, literature, in general, all that fills life with colors and what you feel truly alive.

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

Ivan: Thank you for your interesting questions and interest in our creativity! Do not forget your roots, fully develop, get better every day and then do not have to complain about the negativity around - create your own reality!

Yuri: Keep yourself healthy, get exercise and learn the history of your country. All that you need to raise a healthy generation. Be patriots of your fatherland.

Alexander: Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth!

Dmitry: Thank you for showing interest in us and really interesting questions. Salute Portugal from Russia. Listen to our music and watch the news on the official pages:

http://bastion.kroogi.com/

https://www.facebook.com/bastion.pagan

https://vk.com/bastionpagan