Q&A with Satan's Host

Some bands make great music... but just never got to make it big. Satan's Host is one of them, and these peers of Iron Maiden are going back to explore their blackened power metal roots from their early years with the release of their fifth and latest studio effort, "By The Hands Of The Devil". Underground they may still be, but Satan's Host still haven't forgotten how to make darn good NWoBHM-ish music on this latest album!

Zetalambmary: Firstly, allow me to express my congratulations to the band for 34 years of existence thus far! When the band was first formed back in 1977, bands with overtly satanic names like this were still not very common. What prompted you guys to come up with such a name?

Patrick Evil: Originally, I wanted a name that would stand against Black Sabbath or Led Zeppelin and all the other great bands of that time.
Evil Little Hobbit: Patrick Evil came up with the name when he was a teenager. He felt he had to come up with an evil name that was better than Black Sabbath.

Zetalambmary: You all are almost as old as the titanic Iron Maiden. In fact, both Iron Maiden and Satan’s Host seem to share some similar traits musically, such as the high-pitched wails done by the vocalists and the NWoBHM-ish guitar riffs. Yet you all have a lyrical theme that is dark and unconventional for a band that has a heavy/power metal playing style. So between Iron Maiden and Venom, which band would you guys consider to be a bigger influence on the band?

Patrick Evil: I would say that for me, both of these bands had a great fire that I had interest in.
Margar: Venom is a great band and I enjoy their work, especially “Black Metal”, but Iron Maiden has definitely been a bigger influence.
Evil Little Hobbit: For me it’s Iron Maiden. I’ve been an avid fan since I was a kid; both Clive Burr and Nicko McBrain have been huge influences on me. But as far as what Satan’s Host is all about, I’d have to say that both Iron Maiden and Venom have been an influence.

Zetalambmary: America is also home to the famed Kamelot led by suave frontman Roy Khan. Have you all ever considered moving Satan’s Host towards the direction of modern power metal by incorporating keyboards into your music and lyrical themes that deal with humane problems like questioning the purpose of existence and human solitude?

Patrick Evil: No, I would say I have always been a fan of the more extreme forms of music that are aggressive and guitar-cum-vocal driven. I do like keyboards if they are written in a certain way for the mood of the song.
Evil Little Hobbit: We have had keyboards in past albums, Patrick used to use them before, and the thought of bringing them back is always a possibility. I think the themes we have in “By the Hands of the Devil” does have a lot of questioning, but not on the purpose of our existence, but more about where we came from, what’s happening around us, and more about uniting against the lies and enslavement of the human race by governments and religious ideologies.

Zetalambmary: Do you guys think that there is such a thing as a “black metal star”?

Patrick Evil: It all goes into the conception of thought and mortality; it would be in the way you would look at the star. To me, all great people are different kinds of stars in their own way.
Margar: Sure, there are plenty of black metal stars.

The channelers of Satan - Clockwise from top-left: Leviathan Thisiren (Vocals), Patrick Evil (Guitars), Margar (Bass Guitar) and Evil Little Hobbit (Drums)

Zetalambmary: When Jon Nödtveidt of Dissection was still alive, he often criticised that most of the black metal groups that are active in the global metal scene aren’t truly satanic in the very essence of the word itself, but are “mentally passive, easily-guided apathetic flocks of cattle”. Do you all agree with him?

Patrick Evil: I would agree with him. I think that many people just follow like sheep and don’t strive to create their own sounds and beliefs.
Evil Little Hobbit: Yes. But that is just a human trait in any formal organization. The thing with Satanism is to live as an individual.

Zetalambmary: What kind of beliefs does each one of you hold and what kind of messages do you all want to bring across in the music of Satan’s Host?

Patrick Evil: I think as individuals we all have our own belief systems, mine being spiritual and Satanic. There are so many ways to open the mind; I think it is hard just to limit yourself to certain beliefs. I think there are so many avenues of mystery to be explored and applied in what we wish to attain.
Margar: I don't hold any religious beliefs whatsoever. Because of this, I like to leave the messages to the other guys. I care more about making good music than sending a message.
Evil Little Hobbit: The truth is in the unopened mind, seek enlightenment.

Zetalambmary: What are the 5 favourite albums ever for each one of you and which metal musician do you all admire the most?

Patrick Evil: I am not sure I could limit it to 5 albums. I would say “Blizzard of Ozz” by Ozzy Osbourne, “Heaven and Hell” by Black Sabbath, “Led Zeppelin 4” by Led Zeppelin, “Black Metal” by Venom, “Killers” by Iron Maiden, “Master of Disguise” by Savage Grace and many others.
Margar: Right now, it would probably be “Blackwater Park” by Opeth, “Sailing the Seas of Cheese” by Primus, “Horrorshow” by Iced Earth, “Viva Emptiness” by Katatonia and “Fate of Norns” by Amon Amarth. But that list changes about once a week depending on what mood I am in. I would have to say that I admire Mikael Åkerfeldt of Opeth because he is such an unbelievably talented musician and I like how he composes his music.
Evil Little Hobbit: “Powerslave” by Iron Maiden, “Melissa” by Mercyful Fate, “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd, “Sons of Northern Darkness” by Immortal and “Moving Pictures” by Rush. I admire King Diamond the most.

Zetalambmary: Since Harry’s rejoining of Satan’s Host last year, how do the other members feel about his contributions to the band so far?

Patrick Evil: With Harry, the sky is the limit. We can do anything we have ever dreamed of and more. There is so much room to grow and evolve as a band. We have such great chemistry together.
Margar: It has definitely been a welcome change. I am both proud and honoured to have the opportunity to work with such an incredible vocalist.
Evil Little Hobbit: Harry is stellar. He is a great vocalist, a great musician, a great friend and he has done all he can do to contribute.

Zetalambmary: The latest record, “By The Hands Of The Devil”, takes a nostalgic step back in time to Satan’s Host’s original power metal musical style and departs from the death metal musical style of the late ‘90s to 2009. How has fan reception of this new, or rather, old Satan’s Host been so far and how do you guys feel about it?

Patrick Evil: I think so far it has been an amazing reaction to this album. We wanted to go against the norm and invent something that has been lost for a very long time.
Margar: So far the fan reception has been great. It's satisfying to have something that we have worked so hard on be met with such good reviews.

Zetalambmary: Are you guys going to embark on any tours soon?

Patrick Evil: We do really want to go on tour because we live to play live. At the same time, we are loving song-writing and recording because we have so much fire inside of ourselves to create. We will tour and get the music out there to the fans, it is all just a matter of timing and to make sure we do it right!

Zetalambmary: Will you all ever consider coming to Asia to perform?

Patrick Evil: Of course, we know how passionate the fans are over there. All anyone has to do is make us offers and set up shows and Satan’s Host will play anywhere!
Margar: If the opportunity arises, the answer would be “Yes”.
Evil Little Hobbit: We want to hit every corner of the Earth at some point.

Zetalambmary: Before we end off, does any one of you think that Beethoven would probably make a pretty good heavy metal musician if he was still alive today?

Patrick Evil: I think he would make the ultimate metal musician, you can hear it in all of his works. Give him the technology we have and music would explode from him!
Margar: Without a doubt. Since metal has roots embedded so deep into classical music, he would probably be undeniably great.


"By The Hands Of The Devil" was released on 3rd May, 2011 through Moribund Records.

Q&A with Cernunnos of Hæresiarchs Of Dis

Even though our interview with Californian one-man black metal project Hæresiarchs Of Dis was done through an e-mail exchange, it still did not prevent us from feeling a cold, grim and evil aura seeping through the computer screen from Cernunnos's interview response. From topics regarding his musical background and influences all the way to his views on music trends, Cernunnos shares with us his insightful views on those issues plus more!

Zetalambmary: You have probably been asked this question many times before already, but what is the significance behind naming your project Hæresiarchs of Dis?

Cernunnos: There is no great significance behind the name Hæresiarchs of Dis. At the time of inception a leading inspiration came from Dante’s Inferno. This led to Dis—as in the city and the name for the demo
CD I released during spring last year—but as time passed I opted for a name that delivered greater depth. In this case, I
decided on Hæresiarchs of Dis: A heretic of the city of Dis. Part of this decision was out of necessity for a name that better suited the complexity and direction I felt the project was heading. Dis had been used many times over by other bands, and the more I thought about it, the more the name Hæresiarchs of Dis rang true. I was adamant about choosing a name that strayed away from the cliché and anything that was an expected standard in metal. It is amusing when I see someone gripe about the name, making comments like it is incomprehensible or unwieldy. A perfect example of how metal is perceived to be “simple” in some eyes.

Zetalambmary: What kind of musical instruments and sound effects (if any) are used in your music?

Cernunnos: The core instruments I use for Hæresiarchs of Dis include two of four electric guitars, one acoustic/ electric guitar, an electric bass, an upright piano, and several software programs that include a variety of instruments and effects. The ambient sounds I create come from a voice recorder or samples which are later manipulated with time effects, modulations, or extreme tone drops.

Zetalambmary: Musically speaking, unlike the more popular forms of black metal such as blackened death or black thrash, ambient black metal does not rely heavily on syncopated rhythms and catchy tunes to attract fans. What do you think is the draw of ambient black metal?

Cernunnos: I do not differentiate between sub-genres, and find it ridiculous that people have a need to do so. To me, they are all part of the same ilk, falling under the larger umbrella of black metal. Although the term black metal has “metal” in it, really it is the mood and subject matter that defines a project of this nature and not always the heavy metal part. It is rather amusing to see how music has unfolded into more and more sub genres. I, however, do not feel Hæresiarchs of Dis is ambient, as many tracks include heavy riffs and constructed song structures. The parts that are not “metal” range in variety, and the ambience that prevails is in the mood of the music, not often the song format. The draw of ambient black metal that you put forth in a question is in the morose emptiness, or lack of familiar musical ground. It is the open uninhibited soundscape of ambient black metal that intrigues many listeners.

Zetalambmary: What kind of lyrical themes does Hæresiarchs of Dis deal with?

Cernunnos: It varies between albums. There are the continuous themes of religion, death, and destruction, but more recently there is the dominant suggestion about Man and his inability to fathom his own true fate. It is through the desecration of the soul that revelation is revealed, and ultimate truth attained.

Zetalambmary: Is there any particular poet you revere?

Cernunnos: Most notable within my releases is inspiration from Dante and Milton. The track “In Remembrance
of He Who Defied God” is my musical interpretation of a particular piece of poignant text from Paradise Lost. I do
not think I revere any poets, although there are numerous literary greats that I hold in high regard.

Zetalambmary: Do you think extreme music as a whole, including black metal, can be considered a bold and experimental extension of classical music (read: Baroque to 20th Century)?

Cernunnos: The idea behind what music is does not change. We’d like to think we are modern and at the forefront of art, but really everything is borrowed from something else. Comfortably we call this inspiration, but music is created by available ideas and methods, where current times dictate what medium this inspiration is conveyed in. Currently the format of metal best conveys a lot of my ideas and emotions, but who is to say I would not be using a full orchestra if this was the 17th century, and who’s to say that Paganini would not be a flamboyant electric guitar player if he had been born in modern times.

Zetalambmary: So are there any classical composers you particularly look up to and draw musical inspiration from?

Cernunnos: There are many. Classical music has always been an inspiration in my endeavours. Wagner and Mozart come to mind off hand as many compositions by them inspired me as a child. There are many others, and I am always expanding my classical library. Offhand I have found influence in Chopin, Janáček, Liszt, Debussy, and Sibelius to name a few.

Zetalambmary: What about the FWoBM musicians?

Cernunnos: Metal for me really struck home in the early 80’s. A powerful influence on me at the time was early thrash bands and others of that ilk, but only a couple of bands of that decade have lingered in my influences as time has gone by, including Mercyful Fate and Celtic Frost. The batch of early black metal bands did not influence me until later, after I had started the project. There are too many black metal bands I enjoy, both current and first wave, to mention. I tend to acquire anything and everything I can get my hands on, whether CDs, vinyl or MP3s, and there is little in this genre that I dislike.

Zetalambmary: In an interview with Metal Underground, you mentioned that Hæresiarchs of Dis does not do live shows because it is “a very personal and reclusive experience”. This trait is reminiscent of bands like Deathspell Omega. Just for curiosity’s sake, however oxymoronic this may sound to you, do bands like you guys actually get into contact with one another?

Cernunnos: I do not have any relations or communications with other bands. This is not intentional in an attempt to maintain some off-limits attitude, rather I have no interest. I do not do black metal to be in a community. I am not interested in performances or relations with others. I have played shows and been in bands in the past, and I am done with it. The whole rock star thing is stupid. This music is not about that, rather it is my personal extreme expression delivered in the semi-tangible form of music. Music is after all another form of art, and it is not uncommon for artists to want to be left alone. This is not to say that the future may not hold collaborations with other musicians, just not something right now I see any point in or would actively look for.

Zetalambmary: If Hæresiarchs of Dis is really such a personal experience, why do you still promote your works through record labels like Moribund Records?

Cernunnos: Interesting question. When I say “personal experience”, I am referring directly to “understanding”. I do not expect anyone to completely understand Hæresiarchs Of Dis the way I do. It is uniquely mine in many ways. I am the sole creator and operator of this project and it needs to remain that way in order for it to still strike a chord inside me. I do not share the music with individuals, but people in general—those I have no relations with—I have always had the intent to spread it regardless of my attitude towards others, getting it to those who appreciate this kind of project. This does not mean I want to be friends with everyone. I do not have a hand in promotion of my material, the label does that, but we are not talking about a huge corporate label, rather a niche field of extreme art.

Zetalambmary: The time gap between your third full-length record, “Denunciatus Cinis” and the new album “In Obsecration of the Seven Darks” is only one year. How much has Hæresiarchs of Dis grown within this period?

Cernunnos: “In Obsecration of the Seven Darks” was composed and recorded during post-production of “Denuntiatus Cinis” last year. In reality, the album was done before “Denuntiatus Cinis” was released, but I wanted to spend some time away from it before entering post-production. To answer your question, I do not think Hæresiarchs Of Dis has grown in any way during this time. In fact, I feel the project has been more or less the same from the original onset many years ago. Production may vary between releases due to changes in equipment or software, but the ideas and concepts and song structures have remained consistent.

Zetalambmary: Do you foresee any radical changes in the musical style of Hæresiarchs of Dis in the future? If not, would you ever consider exploring less cacophonous musical realms while still retaining the messages you want to bring across in your music?

Cernunnos: After the release of “Overture” a couple of years ago, I told Viridis Vir—contributor on my two previous releases—that a future release may be entirely an ambient experience, or a symphony of sorts. I even toyed with the idea of creating a release of piano compositions. Hæresiarchs Of Dis is experimental by nature, and I am never certain what direction it will take, nor do I care to plan it out. It is possible there may be no more albums in the future, or there may be a dozen. I do not know. The guitar is only one instrument I find interest in exploring, but with so many options available to me, I do not see metal being the sole vehicle for conveying this project in the future.

Zetalambmary: Most people think that serious black metal musicians are no-lifers that do nothing but dwell in their misanthropic, waste-filled pits all day long. What else do you do in your spare time when you are not composing any of your hate-filled masterpieces?

Cernunnos: In many ways there are two aspects to my person: one that is angry and misanthropic, and the other just gets by, by doing the daily grind that needs to be done. The music I make very separate from the everyday part of my life. I have family and friends for the most part that do not know about Hæresiarchs Of Dis. This is not to say that I keep it a secret, as in fact, I am openly outspoken about many of the ideals set forth in the music, but rather it is something I choose not to share with everyone. I’d expect many would not understand, and that is fine by me. I have always been an artist, and work in the Information Technology arena by day, contracting design, websites, and illustration periodically. The black metal is an outlet for me, but it is not the only creative outlet I have pursued. Books and art have always been a strong pastime for me as well as film. I do not find many modern works in any of these areas that appeal to me often, so most of my consumption is in the classics. This is very strong with books, as I am passionate about literature. Human creations that have stood the test of time and cultural shifts deserve the most recognition, not the latest topping the New York Times Bestseller list. Maybe this makes me slightly antiquated, but nonetheless it is where I find the most thought-invoking inspiration.

Nergal Checks In From The Hospital: Suitable Blood Marrow Donor Found!

Looks like the tough frontman of BEHEMOTH is finally having things going his way: A suitable blood marrow donor has been found!

So here is what Nergal has to say to Metal Blade Records and the BEHEMOTH newsletter:

Hello everyone! I’m still in the hospital but in quite a good shape so I write to let you know about my health and the further stages of treatment. I’ve been through four planned chemotherapies and have stayed in hospital for over 3 months now. I’ve gone through the whole therapy smoothly, though I also had a couple of difficult moments. All this means I finish the stage of pharmacological treatment and I am about to start the irradiation and then the marrow transplant. Yes, we’ve found a donor! Having searched for months, the fundation has found a person whose genotype is identical to mine. It would have been difficult to achieve if it wasn’t for the support of so many people. Most of all, I want to express my admiration for Dorota - my wonderful and devoted fiancée. She did everything she could to help me and many other people, regardless of adversities and comments which were often unfair. Your help is invaluable! Thank you! I love you. On behalf of me and all other people ill I thank everyone who registered in the bone marrow bank regardless of origin, skin colour or religion. The concerts for charity have been organised all over the world and people of show business, bands and, most of all, the fans got deeply involved. You are beyond great! One of you made my transplant possible, but remember, your attitude may save many others in need. So I appeal to everyone: don’t stop the madness! The march for victory continues! Horns up!

Nergal

Nergal (of BEHEMOTH) responds to fans on their concern for him!

Taken from BEHEMOTH and Metal Blade Records newsletters (for those who don't subscribe to them):

Singer's main goal is to raise awareness and get people involved by registering to be a bone marrow donor

Since news on Nergal's recent health issues has been released, the band, management, and label has received an overwhelming response from fans and bands all over the world asking how they can directly help Nergal.

In response to everyone offering his or her help in terms of setting up benefits and shows to raise money for the frontman of the Polish blackened death metal band BEHEMOTH, Nergal has issued the following statement:

"I haven't intended to manifest myself in any way and, especially at this stage, to share my feelings or any other news with the world for obvious reasons. It is simply too early for it. But it was YOU who provoked me to say a few words. Regarding my personal low opinion of humankind, I'm shocked by the reaction to my illness. I actually expected NOTHING yet received feedback which surpassed all expectations. I want to ensure you I read EACH mail I receive, although I'm unable to reply to all of them. The power of your words is pure magic and I thank you all for it. You are a gigantic indestructible army that truly inspires me in this difficult time. The fact is that a fight with this illness is going to last for many months. Most of this time I will spend in hospital and I will go through various psychophysical states. If you know the history of Behemoth you also know we achieved everything by hard work and a steely determination. The same goes for my private life. I happen to be a strong son of a bitch. I have no faith but rely on a 100% victory and I am sure I will get out of it stronger than ever. Sun Tzu in his 'Art of War' said that if you know your enemy and yourself the result of a thousand battles will not surprise you... I enter the ring with this Nietzschean attitude and I will leave it as a winner, as usual. Just watch and see!

So I want to emphasize that Behemoth will by no means goes through any hibernation state. Obviously all concert plans must be postponed until some unknown point in the future, but things are happening! Lately our newest video for '...Alas, Lord is Upon Me' has premiered and stirred up quite a storm in mass media, which fills us with utter pride. Plus we've just finished the project of our new DVD; Evangelia Heretika is a three disc release, a real encyclopedia of Behemoth with nearly 5 hours of material and a bonus audio CD that will be out in November (Metal Blade US - Nuclear Blast Europe). Expect an experience of visual madness as we went to hell and back to make it! Our official Webstore has been functional for a couple of days and official merchandise and some very exclusive stuff can be bought there. At the beginning of 2011, Peaceville in Europe and Metal Blade in US will reissue the EPs with new artwork, bonuses, liner notes, and more. As you can see, despite a complicated situation and difficult circumstances we're remaining active wherever we can.

Finally, I want to comment on some opinions which, provoked by religious circles, lead to far-fetched and inaccurate interpretations. I was surprised to hear my illness became a pretext for some people to embark on their own crusade. Opinions suggesting I might come closer to God or abandon my ideals and grovel to the only correct world view in this country not only surprised but also frightened me. This is a typical example of supporting one's own views by preying on someone's misfortune. 'He fell ill so he will convert to Christianity, he will discover the religion he fought against is actually close to him.' Halt! Why should the illness change my point of view? It is true this is a difficult time for me and the thoughts of ultimate matters are hard to chase away. But the idea that I will change my opinions, priorities, and values as a consequence of my illness sounds as if someone regards my head, and not my body, ill. Suggesting I might convert are ridiculous. To what would I convert? After all, I know Christian mythology pretty well, not only in its literary version, and I find nothing good, creative or beautiful in it. I read books better and wiser than the Bible. War, blood, blackmail, rapes, incest, pedophilia, zoophilia, collaboration and treachery – each page emanates with evil. Some may say I don't understand the message of the Bible. I'd rather say the Christianity is nothing more than a rusty and archaic structure that is going to fall down any moment. It lasts only because of the gullible that follow the shepherd blindly; without any questions, without any consideration, not to any promised land, but to an intellectual slaughter. So, I say to those, who see some chances to break my rules, and myself because of the illness: over my dead body!"

Nergal's official view on benefit concerts, fund raisers, etc. is focused on marrow donations as a whole issue, not his specific situation. If you want to help Nergal the best thing you can do is set up a marrow drive or register to be a bone marrow donor. Every person that registers to be a donor increases the chances of survival for Nergal and every other person out there suffering from the same illness.

To learn more about how you can register to donate marrow check out: http://www.marrow.org/ Fans wanting to help out, register for the marrow program, or have questions on running a marrow drive may contact the organization Music Saves Lives by email at iCare@musicsaveslives.com or visit Music Saves Lives at http://www.musicsaveslives.org/

--
Behemoth Headquarters
The Official Behemoth Site: http://www.behemoth.pl
The Official Behemoth Forums: http://www.behemoth.pl/forum_en
The Official Behemoth Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/behemoth
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Horns up to Nergal for his undying determination to not succumb to life's shit and sanctimonious gibes from haters. \m/,

Q&A with Draconis Infernum

From left to right - Xeper/Sonic Depravation, Kount Cider/Aural Misanthropy, Niloc/Blade ov Inhumanity

*Note: I couldn't find any promo shot of them with Serberuz Hammerfrost inside, but I do have a photo of him here if you guys are interested to see it - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=6219440&id=510082344&ref=fbx_album


The very first local band interview by Zetalambmary is finally up! In this interview, Shadori sat down in front of his computer to talk with Xepher of Draconis Infernum via e-mail so as to learn more about the band.

Here goes:

Zetalambmary: Draconis Infernum is probably the coolest Singaporean metal band name I have come across so far! Why this name?

Xepher: Draconis Infernum which means Infernal Dragon was a recommendation by a friend and I thought it suited us well since we’re all Chinese and the dragon was a good representation of it. On the other hand from the black metal aspect it was relevant and hence we settled for that name.

Zetalambmary: Your style is "strictly old school black metal". What are the bands that influenced and inspired you guys to make similar music?

Xepher: Just to name a few, Bathory during the black metal era, old Darkthrone, old Mayhem, old Venom and of course not forgetting, Slayer, which is of course not black metal, but was one of the bands that inspired us to start writing our own songs.

Zetalambmary: Contrary to popular belief, many metal musicians actually have their roots in classical instruments (e.g. piano, violin, flute). Do you guys?

Xepher: Well, we don’t exactly have classical roots except for Serberuz Hammerfrost, who plays the piano. As for Niloc, his music roots and influences are the blues.

Zetalambmary: What are your thoughts on the infamous misconception that just because certain forms of metal are satanic, all metal is satanic and thus, metal musicians are bad people?

Serberuz: We don't give a fuck!!! It's them who made the mistake, it's them who're not educated enough to realize the importance of looking things through from all angles and perspectives before jumping into conclusions. It's their fault. So why are we the ones expected to clear it all up? And by we, we don't mean just Draconis Infernum but the whole Metal community. Why are we the ones expected to explain things when people who're unrelated to us apparently do not know what's called self-reflection?!

Make no mistake here. Long before Metal ever existed there was Country and Blues. It was the same thing people are saying about us now, what people were saying to them back then. The very term "Underground" came from that era, used by Country and Blues musicians. Not Metal. People just need to find some sort of excuse to feel better about themselves. But guess what? Their existence means NOTHING to us!!

Having said that, Black Metal stands for The Adversary. It will always do for us. The facts have spoken for itself what kind of hypocrisy ALL religions have been (absolutely, without any exceptions at all), and Black Metal stands AGAINST them all!!! Those vermins who think they're "Holier than Thou" can think whatever the fuck they want if self-deceit makes them feel better about themselves. It's none of our business. Better be hated for who we are than to conform and be loved for something we're not. Non Serviam!!!

Zetalambmary: Asian metal seems to be on the rise recently, with bands like ChthoniC and Wormrot being signed on to reputable record labels overseas. What future do you foresee for Asian metal?

Xepher: It’s definitely on the rise with more Asian bands touring Europe, getting signed to reputable labels and getting proper international recognition. There is definitely more to come in just a matter of time. It’s about time more Asian bands get recognized.

At the same time more international bands are coming over to tour Asia which shows that Asia is being recognized by the other side.

Zetalambmary: Do you guys have any plans to strike a record deal with a prominent label overseas? If so, which would be the preferred label? Century Media, Metal Blade, Nuclear Blast, Relapse, Roadrunner, Spinefarm, or Victory?

Xepher: We definitely welcome label support, however it doesn’t matter which label it is as what’s more important is what the label can offer us.

Zetalambmary: You guys are more famous overseas than locally, how do you feel about that?

Xepher: Are we more famous overseas? I’m not too sure about that. However it would be great if more people came to know of our music, but not to the extend that it goes mainstream.

Our music is not for the masses. Many people don’t and will not understand it. It’s only for a certain type of people who embrace a certain type of ideology.

Zetalambmary: As you guys are still indie, the band's expenses mostly come from your own pockets and that sure as hell isn't cheap... Was that why "Death In My Veins" was limited to only 500 copies?

Xepher: 500 was the minimum that we could press and as we weren’t sure if it would be in demand, therefore we agreed on 500. We felt that 500 copies was enough at that time to spread the plague. Currently, all 500 are almost gone.

Zetalambmary: Your second album is titled "Rites Of Desecration & Demise", and is said to be much longer than "Death In My Veins". Is there any other information about it you guys can share with your fans?

Xepher: I cannot say much right now, but yes, it is definitely longer, you’d just have to wait to find out.

Zetalambmary: Here's a fun question, if each of you could choose to date a hot metal chick, who would they be?

Xepher: Mother Mary.
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There you have it folks, apart from the last question and its reply, I hope all the other questions and answers have deepened your understanding of Draconis Infernum a wee bit more.

While we sit tight for the impending dark onslaught of Draconis Infernum's upcoming second album, do check out our review for their first album "Death In My Veins", and if you like it, buy it to support the band.

Until next time, and we hope to bring you more local band interviews!

P.S.: Foreign band interviews will be great as well, if ever possible.

Draconis Infernum: Death In My Veins

Year released: 2008
Website: www.myspace.com/draconisinfernum
Label: None

Tracks:

1. Funeral March (For Those Entombed) [4:44]

2. Belial Rising [5:20]

3. Death In My Veins [5:45]

4. Cursed Are The Vanquished [6:12]

5. Worship Me [5:49]

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When I first learnt of Draconis Infernum, the first thought that shot through my mind was: "Wow, cool name." And this is not your everyday black metal band, it is a Singaporean black metal band. Local music has never sounded so good to me until I heard this! Singapore's underground metal scene is not very huge, its commercial existence thus far is only slightly more than 10 years. But young as it is, it has seen success with many young bands growing increasingly prominent overseas recently, such as Wormrot, Xanadoo and the title band just to name a few.

Anyone who picks up instruments, learn to play well, and has the intent to make music their career can form a band. But how many GOOD bands actually come out of this plethora of budding musicians? Only time has the answer to this question, and so far, Draconis Infernum is doing well. With the barrage of malicious guitar riffs at lightning speed, a lean mean drumming machine, and harsh vocals that sound as seasoned as any prominent old school Western black metal harsh vocalist, Draconis Infernum is set to desecrate and demolish stages both locally and internationally for years to come in their unholy quest to revitalise old school black metal!

Of the five tracks in this short album, I personally like "Belial Rising" best. It is fast and catchy, a song that would probably get black metal enthusiasts headbanging already on their first listen. The 4th track, "Cursed Are The Vanquished", is also another notable track to listen out for because of the same reason, and it is also the longest track in the album (clocking in just over 6 minutes).

Staying true to the style of old school black metal, the lyrics are 100% satanic. Zealots subscribing to any of the Abrahamic religions would find the blasphemous material some use as a stepping stone to further their cause, but other than that, the lyrics sure make some fine dark poetry chocked full of morbid lexicon.

*Dragons Of Hell (lineup for this album): Starting from the top-left in a clockwise direction - Xeper/Sonic Depravation (Guitar), Kount Cider/Aural Misanthropy (Vocals), Serberuz Hammerfrost/Diabolical Nuklear Skin Torture - Pulse ov Decay (Bass Guitar, Drums), Niloc/Blade ov Inhumanity (Guitar)

*Note: Before 2010, Draconis Infernum's bassists were 'sessionists' (for the live shows). Kount Cider is no longer in their ranks as of 2010, and Serberuz Hammerfrost/Diabolical Nuklear Skin Torture - Pulse ov Decay plays the duo role of bass guitarist and lead vocalist for live shows as of 2010 (as well as drums studio-wise). Additionally, Syroth from Warsaw has recently joined the unholy ranks of the band as session drummer for live shows.

Production-wise, Draconis Infernum also put in a lot of effort. Although this is their debut album, it does not sound "raw" at all. Most new metal bands usually have a very unpolished, dirty sound on their debut album, and that is with good reason. They usually are tight on finances and simply cannot afford to risk throwing in everything they have got into a record that might or might not give them a breakthrough. Draconis Infernum however, spent quite a fortune on making a quality record of this album in a good recording studio, which would explain why any unsuspecting listener would most probably think the band is part of the mainstream underground scene in Europe or America on their first listen. Reckless or great foresight? Only the band themselves would know (Edit: The band has informed me that actually, having a raw record can be the intent of the black metal band in question, as black metal is supposed to sound 'raw, disgusting, and ugly'), but nonetheless, what they made was a professional-sounding record that not only officially kickstarted their promising career, but makes for a valuable collector's item as well. Did I mention that there are only 500 copies of this album? I am so glad I got myself one, and I should try to get it autographed should I ever go to any future local gig of theirs, heh heh.



Draconis Infernum - Belial Rising

Overall, Draconis Infernum is one local band that any black metal enthusiast should not miss. In the meantime, wallow in the fiery pits of black aural dissonance! And sit tight for the upcoming 2nd full-length album, "Rites Of Desecration & Demise" as well.

Verdict: 8.8 / 10

KenoN: From The Void Came... Chaos

Year Released: 2009
Website: http://www.myspace.com/kenonepic
Label: Qualm Records

Tracks:

1. Attero Preteritus [2:48]

2. De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium [4:25]

3. From The Void Came... Chaos [2:38]

4. Sacrificial Chamber [4:43]

5. Hordes Of A Lost Empire [5:42]

6. Throne Of Thorns [5:13]

7. Porta ut a Novus Suscipio [1:39]
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The genre of black metal usually strikes a typical metalhead as being a very European kind of thing, but guess what? This week's album review is about the debut record of a very new American black metal band, Californian in fact, called KenoN.

Here's a piece of advice from yours Truly, when you get sick and tired of listening to those polished, professional recordings done by big time metal bands, listening to raw records from infant metal bands once in a while could serve to revitalize your interest in metal again. There is something in raw records that professional records cannot offer, and that is the very original essence of the band present in those unpolished tracks. KenoN is sounding good on this debut, as even though it is a raw record, they have a very good, dark essence indeed. After the initial appetizer acoustic track, the very first barrage of guitar riffs from "Attero Preteritus" emanates such sinister brutality that I cannot help but be reminded of senior black metal bands like Anaal Nathrakh and Belphegor.

These demons who arose from nothingness are: From left to right - Stygian (Backup Vocals, Bass Guitar, Keyboards), Sison (Synthesizers), Neon Sun (Guitar, Comic Relief), Prometheus (Vocals, Guitar)

The use of keyboards frequently throughout the 7 tracks is an added bonus too, and it really helps to score some points with potential new fans, because almost every metalhead knows that keyboards typically stir up a surreal atmosphere with the haunting yet beautiful melodies they are capable of dishing out.

Even if a raw record may be awful to listen to (I'm not saying I find this record awful to listen to though xD), there is still something rewarding about listening to it, and that is the fact that you have at least experienced what the band members' core musical intentions were when they first formed the band. As bands make more and more albums, their essence usually tend to fade away (usually due to volatile lineups), I mean look at Amorphis and Iron Maiden for example, they have both changed so much since their early days. So whether be it you are an old or new fan of the band, listening to the raw records from the band's early days certainly is a good chance for you to experience them for what they truly were in their infant days.


CanoN In Black: Check out the evilish guitar riffs, fast drum beats, and haunting keyboard melodies.

If I have to be really picky and find a flaw with the record for the heck of it, the vocals would be my scapegoat of course. The growls sound muffled and soaked in static, but of course, that would not be the band's fault for not doing them right, but probably because of either financial issues or their usage of synthesized harsh vocals. Every new band would definitely jump at the opportunity to record their music in a professional recording studio if they had the money to do so, but if the harsh vocals really were synthesized, I think it would be better if KenoN doesn't do this anymore on future records. Personally, I think unedited harsh vocals sound more genuine and would have greater impact on the listener.
Instrumentals-wise, they are solid and easily recognisable as black metal, and there are many melodic moments throughout the record which are represented by guitar and keyboard solos. Additionally, the last track is just as gentle on the ears as the first was, which is an appropriate way to end a black metal record if KenoN wants to follow through with the "Mystery-BAM!-Respite" kind of album structure.

Lyrics-wise, I have no comments. That would be because the band did not provide us the lyrics for this record, and it is nearly impossible to make out the lyrics by ear, so if you are interested to read the song lyrics, you would have to either wait for KenoN's debut album and buy it or e-mail the band yourselves to request for them.

Overall, I am looking forward to hear more quality material from KenoN in future. If you are a black metal fan, and am interested in hearing the rest of KenoN's songs on this record, download this record from the following link: http://tiny.cc/kenonepic

A belated Merry Christmas everyone, and may all of you have a good year ahead.

Verdict: 8.3 / 10

Song of the Week: Borknagar - Colossus

Following the previous featured musician post on Simen Hestnæs aka ICS Vortex, we introduce to you one of Vortex's most famous vocal performance during his stint with Borknagar (1997-2000). One of the tracks from the album Quintessence, Vortex left the band shortly after it was released in 2000, supposedly because Øystein Garnes Brun, the founder of Borknagar, gave ol' Simen an ultimatum when his touring schedules conflicted with Dimmu Borgir's recording times. Vortex chose to stick with Dimmu Borgir and Borknagar subsequently went on the search for a new vocalist and bassist.

Borknagar has gone through numerous line-up changes, and having 3 different vocalists lending their voices in their 7 albums over the years, have structured their sound from black metal to a more viking-themed folk metal style with increasingly progressive elements. "Colossus" remains one of their most outstanding songs and has been included in their latest compilation album, For the Elements (1996-2006).

Atmospheric melodies, interesting bass lines, thought provoking and well written lyrics and ultimately, Vortex's powerful and soaring voice firmly places this song in the highest echelons of viking metal music. The lyrics particularly, are astonishingly poetic:

From out of static time has grown
Existence formed by substance unknown Prelude to matter, shift of disorder
Completion of bonds between chaos and order

The era of seasons, the essence of being
The continuous process awakens the living Absorber of every flickering sun
Arranging the pieces to vivid perfection


Unfortunately, the video for the song looks like crap, I have absolutely no idea why but give it a listen, the song sounds awesome no matter what.