SAXON 14.03.23 Warszawa Klub Progresja
Poprawiony (wtorek, 27 grudnia 2022 10:30)
OLDSCHOOL METAL MANIAC XXIII Coming Soon 2022Alas, some of the planned interviews aren’t featured at all…and what is most annoying here, is the very fact a number of people DID promise to answer our questions and then they just bailed…like Yosuke (NWN) who has, again, showed how much he truly supports the underground. I was also hoping to get my questions answered by Inferno (BEHEMOTH). It didn’t happen either. Well, if you talk the talk, walk the walk…yet, still, Armando from MYSTIFIER is my biggest disappointment.
He has allegedly been an ardent fan of SARCOFAGO; at first, he was very enthusiastic about the whole idea and so on. But in the end, I wasted a couple of months trying to get his answers sent over to me. C`mon guys, this sort of behaviour is lame as fuck. I spent a lot of time and energy working on my questions, to make them as interesting as possible, and the interviewees have just tossed those questions out. Well, fuck off to you!
Special Thanks
Cristiano Passos, Paweł Wojtowicz, José Luis Cano Barrón,Mariusz Majchrzak, Michał Hęciak, Wagner Antichrist Moura Lamounier, Gerard Incubus Mineli- SARCOFAGO, Josué Soares da Silva Júnior-BODE PRETO, Irn -GREYHAZE RECORDS ,ROCK BRIGADE,METAL MAGAZINE, Zeder Butcher Gonçalves do Patrocínio ex -SARCOFAGO, Charlie Curcio,Armando- ex SARCOFAGO/ HOLOCAUSTO , Manuel Hemriques- UGANGA, ex SARCOFAGO, Fabio Ihzsko- ex SARCOFAGO ,Rcicardo Neves -MUTILATOR, CHAKAL ,Zhema Rodero -VULCANO, Rua Luzitana- EVILCULT
Black Sin and Damnation- GRAVE DESECRATION, Regener Fortes-PANIC, Valério "Exterminator- WAR METAL HOLOCAUSTO Paweł Kaczyński, Przemysław Bukowski, Wanderley Perna -GENOCIDIO, Armando Pereira -MARQUEE RECORDS, INTO THE CAVE, Reinaldo Resan-INSULTER, Luiz Carlos Louzada- GOAT NECROPSY ,Johannes Chan- DESTRUKTION RECORDS ,Rodrigo --HELLAVENGER/ABISMO RECORDS)
I would like to thank all who have helped us create this very issue of Oldschool Metal Maniac. Without your help, this A Tribute to Sarcofago would never become a reality.
NecronosferatuS
A TRIBUTE TO BATHORY ACT II Good News!Well, early next year, we plan to start working on “A tribute to BATHORY part II”. This`ll be the 25th issue of our Oldschool Metal Maniac Magazine.
We do want this issue to be as unique as possible and therefore we shall focus all of our efforts and energy on this very subject.
So, don’t be surprised to see our activities limited to our website only (www.oldschool-metal-maniac.com).
Before the end of 2022, you can expect A tribute to SARCOFAGO (in September, 160 pages of pure cult, in English) as well as another issue of OMMM (in Polish) in Novem
Poprawiony (wtorek, 30 sierpnia 2022 16:35) A TRIBUTE TO BATHORY ACT II Attention!!! Well, if any of you guys have got any interesting stuff related to BATHORY and you feel like sharing this with us, please email us right away. We are looking for any reviews, interviews, articles and so on… dealing with BATHORY and which aint featured in “A Tribute to Bathory part I”.
In other words, the more stuff we get, the more Part II will feature in result.
And trust me on this: we want this part II to be at least as awesome as part I.
Any help will be very much appreciated.
RISEN PROPHECY- Into The Valley of Hinnom CD Metal On Metal 2015Another gem from the Italian label Metal on Metal. UK`s RISEN PROPHECY is back, after five years, with their second full length album. This is one of the more interesting bands this label has to offer, the label which has a good eye for valuable bands. And RISEN PROPHECY is a valuable band, for sure. It is dynamic thrash metal with a lot of Power influences. Boss Oliver`s powerful guitars keep as amazed again and again, cutting with their razor sharp riffs; solos are just breathtaking, the sound is just overwhelming. Plus, a very distinct vocal turns this material in a really explosive mixture. So the outcome is like this: a very interesting piece of music. And the music from “The Valley of Hinnom” is, indeed, unique. Here, you may find unusually complex songs, it all is perfectly balanced, and every single element is well hearable. The self-complementing instrumentarium of every band member is definitely noticeable. the rhythm section of Ben Olivier Bass and James Chalton is this album`s fuel. It all sounds very clear yet still filthy and rough. Too, Dan Tyren`s powerful vocal is this album`s bright point. There are no weak points here in this album, it all is just super tight and compact. The songs` amazing atmosphere is abundant with different moods. There are some calm moments, and there are some really wild ones. These 36 minutes of music is not enough, really. We need more. this stuff for maniacs into ICED EARTH, FORBIDDEN or UK`s SABBAT. Yeah, RISEN PROPHECY is cleverly influenced by these bands and they do not copy them mindlessly, oh no! Keep an eye on this talented band as they`ll show you again what they`re capable of! LWS Poprawiony (piątek, 25 września 2015 10:44) NEW INTERVIEW NASTY SAVAGE
I am sure that people who are as old as me can still recollect the famous NASTY SAVAGE show which took place at Spodek, Katowice, Poland, back in 1988. The Iron Curtain separating us from other democratic countries of Western Europe was still affecting Poland. It was however the time when the political system (that is, communism) in Poland was getting somewhat milder. As a result, more and more Western bands were able to show up in our country with their music. Of course, at the time, we didn’t get to see as many bands as other fans in Western Europe could, at the time. But after IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA had come Poland and encountered hordes of ardent metal music maniacs there, it seemed that many Western bands finally realized that Poland was, in fact, a fairly attractive place in which they could play their music live. Many years however had to pass until the situation changed for better. Sure, we got to see such bands as KILLER, BUDGIE, UFO, NAZARETH, IRON MAIDEN, PRETTY MAIDS, SAXON or ACCEPT….but the year of 1987 was a special one: METALLICA came to Poland and played live here (twice at Spodek, Katowice).
Those two shows were truly exceptional. The venue itself (Spodek) was considered a real metal temple; it was where Poland`s two most important metal music events: Metal Mania and Metal Battle, used to take place. Those fests (each of which used to take place once a year) were extremely important events for each and every metal maniac in Poland at the time. Unsurprisingly, since metal fans in Poland were hungry for music, both fests always attracted plenty of people. In the same year, apart from METALLICA, we could also enjoy another overseas band: OVERKILL. They played lived in Katowice together with two other, very popular bands - HELLOWEEN and RUNNING WILD. All that took place thanks to Kris Brankowski who kept heating up our blood through his exceptional metal radio show – “Muzyka Mlodych.” And that very guy, Kris, convinced “Pagart” (the Polish label which dealt with those two bands) to get them to Poland. At the time, hunger for music was so great that many bands, as a rule, would perform two sets back to back. For instance, that happened at Metal Mania Fest, on April 16, 1988; RAGE, KREATOR and a bunch of most prominent Polish bands played two sets back to back on that day!! Two months before Metal Mania Volume III, Spodek was full of maniacs again. That was the day when Metal Battle was taking place, including such bands as ATOMKRAFT, EXUMER and of course, the band that we are dealing with in this very issue – NASTY SAVAGE.
Well, what can I say about their show? It was truly unique…their live music was very technical and simply stunning. Nasty Ronnie`s charismatic vocals matched with his wild gymnastics on the stage. He literally kept thrashing around, using the microphone like some sort of weapon. A gigantic red banner with band`s enormous logo was awesome. Man, there was no band like them to ever play such awesome power/thrash metal! What NASTY SAVAGE did in Poland was a breath of fresh music coming from overseas. We were stunned. If I remember correctly, the show started with “Stabbed in the Back” from the amazing “Indulgence” album. Plenty of energy encapsulated in a very technical performance. Really, at the time, most of European bands were not able to achieve such a level of skillfulness. Well, maybe beside CORONER. The next song was “Gladiator” from their debut album. High pitched vocals and powerful riffs shook us really well. So, when “Indulgence” was on, many of us couldn’t stay still. Man, what was going on in the mosh pit was just wild. I am sure NASTY SAVAGE were pleased to see how people reacted to their music. As a result, they started to play their songs even more savagely. Alas, Ronnie didn’t resort to his standard behaviour, I mean smashing TV sets with a sledgehammer (or his head). But he still behaved like he was suffering from ADHD – he was all over the place, playing and throwing toilet paper into people, swinging the microphone stand and stuff like that. That was his natural habitat – that’s for sure. Yes, he looked like a professional wrestler and that, combined with amazing vocals, did the job – that was an unforgettable experience.
The guitar duo of David Austin and Ben Meyer was excellent. I had never seen anything like that. I was very happy to hear more songs from NASTY SAVAGE debut album: “Dungeon of Pleasure,” “Metal Knights” and the previously mentioned song “Gladiator.” Awesome tracks, plain and simple. I must confess that NASTY SAVAGE`s debut album has a special place in my heart. This stuff still holds up so well. I feel very sentimental about this album. Of course, other albums are great too. So, that night, NASTY SAVAGE played some more good songs from their repertoire: such as totally devastating “Abstract Reality.” That show was a really memorable one. Yes, it is true that most of us, at the time, were totally crazy about Teutonic thrash and bands like KREATOR, SODOM, DESTRUCTION, PROTECTOR or EXUMER. But the NASTY SAVAGE show had, nonetheless, a profound impact on plenty of Polish maniacs. And on many bands as well, who, in result, started to play more technical, more advanced metal music. Hard to believe the show I am talking about took place 34 years ago.
They have not returned to Poland since that day. What our band have been up all those years you may ask? In 2004, they resurfaced with their new, very good album “Psycho Psycho” and then disappeared for another 20 years. So, when at this year`s Keep It True Fest I learned that NASTY SAVAGE were going to play live at the October edition of this cult fest I became very excited. And hey, they are currently working on their new album too, so I think it is a good reason to talk to Nasty Ronnie about a couple of things. Here we go.
As I can see, you guys have been very active again…. that’s great news NASTY SAVAGE is alive and kicking!
Yes we are and it's exciting. I felt that I was at a crossroads 20 years after Psycho Psycho with all new members with only me holding the Nasty Savage flag as the original founding member. I knew we had to deliver a powerful offering here in 2024 and I'm pretty sure we have delivered in a most powerful way.
.Your latest album “Psycho Psycho” was out back in 2004. What NASTY SAVAGE have been doing for the last 20 years?
Off on gigs playing more and more had some changes but I've kept the flag flying and the fire burning with passion and new found energy.
Well, can you please tell us what was the reason for you guys to return after such a long hiatus and offer us a brand-new album?
Our plan was always to do a new album we just never were solid enough to do it. Curtis was gone we got Jim Coker Ben was gone we got Pete Sykes Richard was gone we got Scott Carino Richard then passed away RIP so sad. Then David Austin quit. Was it the end no ! We got Dave Orman. We made a plan and reality came true so we had to produce something special. We got a record deal with FHM a German label and we started writing new songs. I told the guys not to worry about the past it's 2024 write heaver faster and more powerful than anything on the past records. They knew they had big shoes to fill and they still kept it true to old school styles of NS but also added the new twists and turns that set it a side of anything we've ever done ! Look out !
.I assume it must’ve been pretty hard to return after such a long hiatus. Especially when the current metal music scene is truly enormous, there are plenty of awesome bands around and so on. What’s your view on this matter?
We have been playing shows metal fests all across America and beyond we see all kinds of bands it's all good hard core punk thrash metal death metal doom metal old school new school the more the better. Bring it on ! There are so many great bands working hard that we knew what we had to do. We had to create that twisted nasty Savage sound again but now more powerful even heavier more twisted with new energy and all new members since Psycho Psycho. Still old school from 1982 because there is history and respect earned over 41 years and this new album is gona blow you away ! The current metal scene is all good every band should work hard and smart every day to achieve their goal. We honor all bands who are working hard and producing metal to carry on the tradition and the love of heavy metal.
When I saw the Keep It True Rising poster with your band name and your new album`s front cover, I was literally shocked. Man, I am so excited to know you guys are going to perform live in October!
Yes my brother it will be a true celebration and we are honored to play for the great fans of Keep it True! It will also celebrate this new album Jeopardy Room and 40 years of Nasty Savage. I hope to see banners made from the great fans of Poland !!!! Let's go let's celebrate together like we did in 1988 ! Is every body in ?
I can still recollect the day when saw you at Spodek, Katowice, Poland (Metal Battle) together with ATOMCRAFT and EXHUMER (on February 7, 1988). That was a big thing - your music, for us, metalheads in Poland. Any memories from that event you would like to share with us?
It was 1988 and it was amazing in Poland we played 3 shows with Wolf Spider a Polish band. It was still very opressed behind the Iron Curtin. So when we played the last show in Poland we called Wolf Spider into our dressing room and gave them.all the polish money we had. A big pile of cash. I think it was one of the best things I've ever done. It's a great memory but the whole experience was so awesome for us. That video blows me away watching Dave and the boys play those crazy twisted nasty Savage songs. It was wonderful to see how strong the support from the great fans were to the music they love ! We will never forget the kindness and the friendships that were made.
For years, Poland had been separated from other countries by the so-called the Iron Curtain. As a result, many awesome Western bands were not able to come to Poland and play live in our country. Luckily, the late 80s was the time when something began to change for better. The communist enslavement which had been suffocating Poland abated significantly – we got to have such fests like Metal Mania or Metal Battle. Those were true metal music events for us. Were you surprised that there were so many fans who came to see NASTY SAVAGE in Poland?
It was a honor and the great fans of Poland were amazing ! I will never forget how special it was and how amazing the whole experience was. It seemed like just yesterday. You can Google this concert. Nasty Savage in Poland. Thank you for the memories.
Ron, do you know of any Polish bands beside the ones you performed live with, at the Metal Battle festival (Like WOLFSPIDER, for example)?
No I do not. I'm not really up on many bands at all. I'm focused on Nasty Savage and my business work and family.
-Well, I am very happy that your new album will be out in October, 2024. You mentioned your budget was rather limited. And you guys didn’t have too much time for recording. But I do hope the final outcome is simply stunning, huh? You have cooperated with Jim Morris before, right?
Yes I have recorder in all 3 studio locations. Not many people can say that. The record production is very well done and we must thank Jim Morris for his unbelievable work. We did everything in 8 days including mix and Mastering.
-Except for your debut album`s front cover with only your logo on it, other albums` front covers have always featured various works by a Miami artist - Lewis Vandercar. How did your interest in his art start? Did you meet Lewis personally? He regrettably died in 1988.
Psycho Psycho did not have a VanDercar painting either. Always loved VanDercars art. I meet him through good friends of ours and I knew he was the right man for the job. Jeopardy Room also features VanDercar.
-Further, in my view, your front covers aren’t “typical” metal ones….so to say. They seem to be more suitable for some sort of progressive rock bands. However, on the flip side, it needs to be noted that your music has always featured a lot of progressive elements. Don’t you agree? Why did you decide to have your album front covers look different than “standard” front covers other bands had at the time?
We never cared what anyone was doing or what anyone was doing. It felt good to us and when we chose to use VanDercar for Jeopardy Room people said oh yes it's Nasty Savage and it looks old school. We did not want AI like everyone else was doing as it was all part of the plan.
-Your new album`s front cover is sort of in the same “vein,” stylistically speaking. Did you use Lewis Vandercar`s art again?
Yes we did
- Are you familiar with Zdzisław Beksiński from Poland and his art? If not, well, man, you absolutely should get interested in his paintings. His art is just totally amazing!
No.i do not know him
Well, I am sure the fact that Keep It True Rising IV does not mean it`ll be just a one-off kind of live performance? Have you planned a full NASTY SAVAGE tour here in Europe, including Poland, of course? Man, it’s been 34 years since you last played live in our country! Time is flying, indeed, huh?
At my age 62 it's hard to do a whole tour but you never know. You never know. Booking agents need to reach out to us and bring us to your country. Nothing is planned yet but we are always open to opportunities
When I first contacted you, you were busy working on a new studio album. Can you please elaborate a bit on how the recording session is going? When is NASTY SAVAGE`s new album scheduled to be out?
The album is completed and should be out by October 2024 It's amazing and people are freaking out that have heard it and the metal world will be very surprised by this new Nasty Savage Album. Songs like : Jeopardy Room , Brain Washer ,Southern Fried Homicide , Witches Sabbath with John and Donald Tardy , Schizoid Platform , Aztec Elegance , Operation Annihilate, Blood Syndicate , The 6th Finger , Sainted Devil and Invocations. Recorded Mixed and Mastered with Jim Morris at Morrisound Studios. It came out unbelievable! I'm so excited because it's been such a long time and sometimes bands can loose a step or 2 and go backwards but I think we went forward 100 steps of energy and raw power to offer you Jeopardy Room ! The 1st Nasty Savage Album in 20 years.
Wow that's amazing News :)
Ron, tell me please where you are recording your new album? Who`s responsible for the recording session? Can you please tell us which label is going to take care of releasing it, promotion and so on?
FHM Records from Germany is our record company and recording at Morrisound Recording Studio with Jim Morris who Engineered this project was so very amazing. I think the whole session w mixing was a total of 7 or 8 days total. We weren't working with a big budget but we definitely plowed through and produced something very special.
The “Jeopardy Room” front cover looks very old school. How about music then, is it old school to the bone too?
Oh yes yes yes Old School and New School that will blow people away. Trust me because it will. Pete Dave Jim and Kyle were ready and hungry for a chance to really record and deliver the goods. I'm very proud of these guys 100%
In 2018, Richard Bateman (bass) died. He was only 50. What happened? It must have been terrible news for you guys.
It was so sad he had left the band and we were still playing. We heard the news and we're devastated. He was a monster bass player but a great father
soul. He is loved and missed. RIP Richard. Hear him.on Penetration Point and Psycho Psycho to see and hear how great he was. Rest in Power my friend.
Can you please tell us about current NASTY SAVAGE`s line up?
They are all great guys who love to play record and be productive. I am honored to play with them.
Ronnie Nasty- Voc Dave Orman Guitar Jim Coker Drums Pete Sykes Guitar Kyle Sokol Bass
We are proud to be endorsed by Dean Guitar. These guys are the new chapter of Nasty Savage and they all deliver 100%
.At the time, your professionalism was something that many young, willing to play brutal music, bands really admired. NASTY SAVAGE used to support young and unknown bands by playing live shows together with them. Thrash music was very popular at the time and death metal, a new genre was not too appreciated. It was thanks to you guys that MANTAS` new incarnation – DEATH performed live at Ruby`s. Guys from R.A.V.A.G.E. (ATHEIST) say NASTY SAVAGE has always been their main inspiration. Seems like you guys influenced a lot of groups back in the day, huh.
Yes we were the 1st wave of the florida metal scene. So when the new kids saw us the had to create the next wave and that they did. Death Metal Extreme metal took it to another level. Obituary and many others have shown us respect and it feels good. I always wanted to build the tampa brandon Florida metal scene and i think we definitely put it on the map ! But now we are back to carry this flag with new music in 2024 so look out and make sure you get Nasty Savage Jeopardy Room! Last night I was at a small party and John Tardy and Terry Butler was there we played the new Nasty Savage record and they were very impressed. Not sure if you know but ......BREAKING NEWS .....John and Donal Tardy from Obituary recorded with us on the remake of Witches Sabbath ! We turned a 40 year old classic into a new EPIC song for sure ! Just wait till you hear it !
.You know, I think that old school metal is back where it all started. A full circle indeed. And it is doing extremely well. Who would have thought that vinyl records and audio cassettes were going to be so popular again. What do you think?
Hell yes ! The time is right and we have a new product and all new members that have kept the faith. We will have colored disks picture discs CDs as well. Ck # nastysavagewageofmayhem on Facebook for updated information
Well, time to wrap up, I think. Anything to add for our NASTY SAVAGE fans? Thanks a lot for your answers and see you at Keep It True
We love you guys ! Thank you for supporting metal and the bands who play it. Nasty Savage is back with Jeopardy Room and it will not disappoint you ! Thank you for your support ! Ck out our Facebook page nastysavagewageofmayhem
Ck out www.nastysavage.com
I hope to see you soon
Thank you Nasty Ronnie XXX
Poprawiony (piątek, 30 sierpnia 2024 10:25) NEW HELLAVENGER
Out of the bottomless darkness looms an eternal dread to announce that Chilean HELLAVENGER`s debut album is upon us. This music is awash in pure evilness…it pulsates menacingly, providing these hymns with unsettling energy. To resist this power is not possible, for this storm of devilishness shall easily possess, enslave and imprison your souls.
A slimy creature slithers over an altar of human skulls and bones. It yearns for human souls… The sound of infernal trumpets announces that the apocalyptical beast is come; it awoke in the deepest abyssal pits after centuries of feeding on human nightmares.
Pulsating darkness, like deadly whispering, summoned by ancient spells heralds that the dark album by HELLAVENGER – “The Primordial Fire” has finally arrived. The black flame has been started at the altar of the Hell Lord. The sky becomes covered with bloody crimson, the earth has opened itself to let the filth crawl out and feed on unspeakable fear of innocent beings.
Hell itself has answered to the call of Dark Priests…they practise bloody rituals in the dungeons of ancient crypts to call the name of The One who boldly holds the banner of evil in his hands. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Rodrigo Hellavenger, the master of all Evil:
Hi Rodrigo, how are you?
- Hi Leszek, everything is fine here, in a cold day in Santiago while listening to SAMAEL – “Ceremony of Opposites” album.
When we last talked about HELLAVENGER, you were working on your compilation cd featuring two demos – “Lord of the Burning Abyss” and “The Primordial Flame.” Well, it didn’t take long for you guys to churn out a brand-new album called “The Primordial Fire”– self-released on tape in March 2023. Can you please tell us some more about this tape?
- Yes, that Demos compilation CD through your Thrashing Madness label was done in a very smooth and quick manner, and we are very satisfied about the result. I think it has helped us to show our Evil music in a wider range of Metal maniacs in Poland, Europe and the rest of the world, so thank you! We recorded our Debut album last year which took a lot of sessions and hard work to come up with the final version for a master to be put onto tape. This Independent version is intended to be shared with our close circle just to show our new Primordial Black Metal tracks in the most honest way. It is also used as promotional stuff to send to labels which could be interested to release other versions and some zines that could support our Dark Art.
Well, the first thing that needs to be discussed here is the album`s production – it is much better and clearer than previous stuff`s; yet, the demo quality made these songs' previous versions sound much filthier. Sure, this stuff still oozes of sulphur and tar but it is much clearer, hey. Did this sound change take place on purpose or what?
- Of course, it is always “a thing” to move from a demo sound to an album production because much better equipment is used and, as well, much more hours of sound engineering are spent. I think this is a natural improvement when a band wants to achieve a more powerful, dark and violent sound. Also, the demo tracks and everything about that happened in a period between 2011 and 2018 while the album was recorded in 2022, so the differences will be perceived in both sound and musical aspects. However, the Message, which is the most important thing, remains through the same Abyssal path.
Where did you record “The Primordial Fire”? Tell us about the studio and so on.
- This time we recorded in a studio called Mad Arabian studios where Bliol, the owner, is a professional sound engineer which has lot of experience with his own bands (GORHOTH, CEREMONIAL, EUTANASIA, etc.) and other good albums which have been recorded with his support. We had several meetings with him previously to start the recording phase because we needed to agree on a morbid vision about how we wanted our album to sound like. After this definition we agreed on the equipment to be used (amps, effects, mics, etc.) and scheduled the agenda where all the recording must happen.
The recording session took place (with breaks) between February and November 2022, right? Why so long, if I may ask? Are you happy with the final outcome?
- The recording sessions took place during the early months of the year only. We first recorded the drums, then both guitars, the bass, the vocals and finally the solos. What took more time to finish this process was the mixing and mastering phases, because some difficulties to agree on agendas to make them faster and, also, we had to have several versions before band approvals. We are proud of the outcome for this Independent Cassette version and we hope that Devil worshippers who listen to the Album can appreciate it as well. Nevertheless, we still need to work in some adjustments in the mix/master for the upcoming versions in other formats for labels that could be interested in this release.
I have blasted “The Primordial Fire” a couple of times already and I am under the impression that your style has changed. It is still very original but a bit different from the demo stuff. Would you agree? I would say this time, your music is much more brutal and intense, huh?
- As we defined our style as Primordial Black Metal we can move within different sounds and approaches over this Mystical genre. When I created the tracks for the “Lord of the Burning Abyss” demo I wanted to praise honor to the first inception of the sound that VENOM created in the first half of the ‘80s. With this Debut Album, we developed our Sinister path with much more violent and dark aspects as it we have moved between 1986 and 1991, a period from where many classic recordings inspired us in the composition of the songs. So, because of this, you should perceive more intensity, obscurity and violence throughout the album.
I am aware of the fact that creating music means searching for one`s own music identity. With each and every new release a band gets nearer to the moment in which they can say – hey this is our own, unique style. When it comes to HELLAVENGER, well, I think I can hear a lot of progress in your music, but you seem not to be too sure which path you guys will follow in the future. What do you say?
- We are very clear about the Sinister path we want to follow and, as mentioned in the previous question, it is called “Primordial Black Metal”. This means that in the future you could hear First Wave or Second Wave Black Metal moments adding Death Thrash elements which have always been a big inspiration for us. As you know me for so many years, you know that I am a fuckin’ obsessed maniac for all the Metal recordings which sound evil and dark so you could notice this obsession in very different manners through the album tracks. I think that is good, because we don’t reach an “obvious” result and every song has its own charm. In other words, our Devil Art is like a Horror Movie, where you have lot of different scenes but in the end, they are part of the same Film with the same Macabre message.
Hey, can you elaborate on each song this album features? What are the lyrics all about? Which track is your favourite?
- I would prefer that all lyrics part can be explained once the new versions of the album are available. At this moment, I can only say that the whole album talks about topics like: the search of the Power of the Occult, the Serpent and its poison, the Doom over mankind, invocations of the spirits from Beyond, the conquest of Lands beyond the Abyss, the triumphant procession of our Iron Legion and other funeral stories. I don’t have a favorite track as I use to listen to the whole album in a round. I also want to highlight the amazing works of the two Metal maniacs that created the intro and interludes featured in the Album: one of them is Synod from the GRABUNHOLD band in Germany (great BM band btw), I entered in contact with him thanks to Andreas Condemptor from BAXAXAXA. The other maniac that helped us is Daren from Poland, who played in great bands like HOLY DEATH and MGLA, I must thank you again Leszek for providing me with his contact.
There is some Polish element featured in this stuff too, right?
- Yes, as mentioned in the previous answer, Daren “Neradiza” composed two of the great intros featured on the album.
Ok, it might sound like a premature question, but what has the response to “The Primordial Fire” been so far?
- We have already distributed some copies of the cassettes here in Chile and most of the feedback we have received have been very good, in terms of the sound and production of the tape. We have sent several parcels to our close allies in other countries, so we expect that our poison will start burning people's veins in the most Perpetual way very soon.
Can you spill the beans a bit and tell me how many tapes you guys have sold so far? How many copies have you made in total?
- The Independent release consist of 150 copies of a tape production completely made in Chile, which meant a great satisfaction but, at the same, lot of headaches because all the delays and few details that are always found due to the, sometimes, lack of a professional attitude on the works of the people within the UG here. Anyway, the response towards the cassette has been good until now so we really hope to get a good contract with some other labels. In general terms, most of the copies have been given to our contacts in Chile and abroad as a gift because of their comradeship and constant support to the band. Few copies were sold to people in Chile to recover some of the investment we spent but, in the end, the most important thing for us is to show our music in Physical format, without ANY internet/virtual support or promotion until now. We strongly believe that this is almost the only way to do something different and against the system in a world where people have the urge to show every single step or idea in the Virtual/Fake world.
This album is out on tape. If I get it right, you guys are going to release it on LP and CD in Europe, Asia, USA? Any interest from any labels so far? Or is it too early to ask?
- Not sure Leszek, we are still in the physical distribution phase, this means that we still need to send all remaining copies and then wait for the response of the owners of labels who receive the tape. So then, the deals will depend on their impressions of our Album after they listened to it on their cassette players and how fluent the offers and communications are conducted. I must say that there are some labels already interested but patience is the greatest virtue we need to practice on a daily basis. As you see, we are trying to do everything in the most UG way, the same way followed by the Old legends before the internet pushes everything as an “instant click”. I know that perhaps it is completely outdated and slower compared to how most of the bands promote their music nowadays through virtual platforms, but we strongly believe that there is NO better experience than receiving a cassette, put it in your stereo and listen to the entire stuff for the first time while looking at the cover and reading the track list. This is the Spirit of the Evil One in our minds and we will worship this forever!!!
Some HELLAVENGER members are involved in FORCE OF DARKNESS too. Does it affect your live shows in any way? Are HELLAVENGER going to play some tours in order to promote this new stuff? If so, where can your fans expect to see you guys?
- We have prioritized the musical compositions and recordings with our band therefore we have not played in any show yet, although we have been invited to some concerts in the past. Our main purpose is to transcend with our evil recordings and deliver our powerful message through them, however, we are starting to plan rehearsals of a setlist in case we are invited to play live in a future Satanic Ritual where other bands and atmosphere are the proper ones.
HELLAVENGER `s music is very awash with this peculiar devilishness. Tell me what your inspirations are when it comes to writing such devilish music, huh? Man, when I listen to this album I can sense the Horned One is close...
- After becoming Possessed as a teenager and almost three decades dedicated to the listening of Dark and Evil stuff, I think we only need to find the way to express our poison inside the best way we can, and this means that frequent practice of our instruments is required. At the same time, it is also mandatory to keep walking the Left-Hand Path and avoid all the lies, traps and chains that Global Manipulators use to force the people to obey their rules like innocent lambs. You know, the NWO agenda is advancing everywhere with its multiple attacks (the global virus was one of the hardest ones) so, for me, to collect Metal music and attend Metal concerts/fairs is not enough to confront the dirty game they play. We must become Warriors, perhaps not the perfect ones but at least we should do our best by learning history and occult themes, keep healthy and strong, and not follow every stupid trend imposed by politicians or people in power. We know that nowadays the rainbow flag, political correctness and cancellations are as disgusting and dangerous as the Christian cross and its followers so beware of falling in their traps!
When we take a closer look at the Chilean scene, one thing becomes obvious. A lot of Chilean bands have got this unique dose of devilishness in their music. You know, as if these bands were born with the devil`s mark. This is so unique and natural, man, I tell you. Why is it like this?
- Well, I wouldn’t go that far about a “Devil’s mark” in the Current Chilean bands. Although there are a lot of them that sound violent and dark, play with good technique and have cool live performances, I’m not sure if all of them really have the Devil branded in their souls (and this applies not only to Chilean bands, of course). What happens in Chile is that our country has been a Social experiment for decades and that is why so many people, including metalheads, hate everything related to authorities. And for the worst, the greedy politicians from left and right wings are always trying to take advantage of this and wash some old and young people's brains infecting them with their pathetic ideologies of a “better country”. This has infected in a so hard manner in the last years that polarization because of political affinities on the population, including Metal scene, is beyond any sense. I think that could resume why Metal has served as a weapon for so many bands to express the disconformity, frustration and anger against all that is imposed by the force. On the other hand, musically speaking, I think nowadays it is easier than before to search for legendary recordings and replicate an “Underground” sound but, at the same time and IMHO, most of the bands are really lost regarding a radical message that should be spread instead of abusing clichés. In the early years of Metal, bands tried to express something unique in both musical and lyrical aspects against what shitty things were happening in Society, to demonstrate the opposition against Religion and Moral laws and that was demonstrated in the lyrics and also in the Visual appearance. After more than 40 years since then, the historical context has changed a lot, but the rulers of the world are the same and, unfortunately, the acceptance of the new digitalization era has blinded most of the rebel souls which are part of the Worldwide metal scene. Nowadays, I see most of the people involved in Metal activities affected by a compulsive consumerism to buy every stuff labeled as a “must”. It’s sad but people keep buying and buying instead of listening and thinking and then spending tons of hours feeding their egos on virtual platforms by showing every single private moment of their lives. And regarding Metal concerts, I think that a grand majority go just to get completely drunk and record videos with their phones instead of banging their heads and appreciating the complete shows. Being said that, what I am trying to bring and preserve are some of the most important Traditions in the Underground and they are: to try to become stronger every day, to understand who the fuck are the actual enemies in your life and to avoid to be blinded by the False Light.
You have been part of the metal scene for years. You are also an ardent music fan too. Tell me what bands have impressed you recently? Any good, promising Chilean bands you wish to recommend to us?
- You know that I am always looking for obscure stuff from the past and the present. As per old discoveries, some trades and re-releases have brought very good stuff to my ears such as: BACKOUT (BEL), ZONA MORTA (BRAZIL), TERMINATOR (POL), FATA MORGANA (CZE), AZAZEL (POL), OBLIVION (USA, NY), MISERY (SWI), S.F.H (CAN), DEAD CHRIST (UK), DEMACRATOR (PAN), O.T.T. (USA) among many others. As per International acts from the current times, I follow the work of UG bands such as GLASNIK SMRTI (SERBIA), SIJJIN (GER), CAIXÃO (POR), BAXAXA (GER), NECROCARNATION (ARG/GER), GOAT TYRANT (POL), TRUPI SWAD (POL), MALOKARPATAN/KROLOK (SVK), CRYPS OF WALLACHIA (BEL), MOONCITADEL (FIN), DEUS MORTEM (POL), AZAXUL (GER), CONTUMACY (PER), OATH OF CRUELTY (USA), RADIATION (SVK). OBROK (BUL) and tons more. In regards of bands from my country that I support and know that are working on new stuff or have recent releases out I can name: ABISMA, MALIGNANT ASCETICISM, PACTO AMEN, SOUL’S PYRE, ORACULUM, SCIENTIAM TEMPLUM, INVOCATION, NECROPHOROS, ORION, ROTTEN TOMB, KERASFORA, IMPURO GRAL, INSURREXION, BLACK BEAST...there are more of course but they escape to my mind now.
Well, so, “The Primordial Fire” is out. What should I wish you guys as far as this stuff is concerned?
- We really hope to find a Label to release our Album in other versions and that it can help us with good promotion and distribution within the Ultimate Underground maniacs throughout the world, because, honestly, this Album was recorded with our entire guts and burning dark souls! Our email contact is: Adres poczty elektronicznej jest chroniony przed robotami spamującymi. W przeglądarce musi być włączona obsługa JavaScript, żeby go zobaczyć.
Time to wrap up, I guess. Thanks a lot for your time and your answers. Any last words for our old school metal maniac readers? Take care.
- As always, my eternal gratitude for your comradeship and constant support to my bands and projects through the years. I would urge to the OMM readers to keep supporting Old School Metal maniac zine and Thrashing Madness records and to stay alert about the HELLAVENGER news when, hopefully, our Album is out and available through other labels. And as last Call: Be part of our Iron Legion and enter the Burning Abyss! We need Evil Warriors to keep fighting against all Manipulations! Primordial Black Metal is the only Law!!! In Nomine Satanas HELLAVENGER
NecronosferatuS Poprawiony (poniedziałek, 08 maja 2023 15:52) NEW INTERVIEW KNIFE
Teutonic metal is doing fine these days, no doubt. If you need proof, well, you go listen to KNIFE`s excellent, self-titled debut album…ok, lads and ladies, this is KNIFE from the German town of Marburg:
Hello. Some time ago Florian sent me your debut, self-titled album from. This stuff kills, I must say, congratulations on awesome music!
Thanks a lot, glad you enjoy it. We put a lot of effort in the debut album and we’re happy that
people seem to dig it. It is time for real metal to reclaim the throne.
Well, as I can see you used up the COVID time really productively. I am sure you rehearsed a lot before recording and releasing your debut album, huh?
We mainly used the pandemic to write the songs and plan the release and basically did not have a lot of time to rehearse once the album was scheduled. Luckily, we all have more or less experience in recording so the songs and the recordings turned out great. But still we are
sure the next record will be even more METAL because we became tighter due to the shows
we have already played.
These days, there are fewer and fewer bands who rehearse together. Yes, I understand that some bands` members live very far away from each other but otherwise I think that`s weird.
There’s nothing better for a band than to get together to rehearse and create their music; jamming with each other. Otherwise, music somewhat lacks emotions…and I would say
while rehearsing a lot of great ideas can be found as well! What do you think about it?
I totally agree, even though we usually meet after Laz has already some ideas for the choruses and verses and I have already prepared parts of the lyrics. But of course the arrangements, the feeling and the energy only emerges when we play together and thus steadily improve.
Your music adds “fuel to the fire” of the archaic, metal tradition. So that this amazing genre shall never be forgotten. Was that your aim when you formed KNIFE?
You nailed it. It is quite simple: our aim is to deliver the energy of the first wave of Black Metal, the rawness of Punk and the power and melody of Heavy and Speed Metal. True Metal is supposed to be
played to crowds of maniacs with a passion for our music and this is what we want to do.
This album stands for a solid dose of old school metal, the way I love it! And man, I was so surprised to learn KNIFE formed just in 2019. How hard is it to play music like this, these days?
Thank you, mate. As mentioned before, we took a lot of time to prepare everything. For whatever reasons we were fortunate enough to release our music more or less directly after the first recordings.
I think that it always depends on what your band wants to achieve. Our main goal is to play fuckin’ fast a raw Speed Metal. If we sell records or not, or if we play in front of 5 or 500 people. It is the
music that drives us. So to us playing Metal is not hard, it’s just what we do.
Well, I am trying to figure out what bands are your main inspirations? Any names?
As our “Slasher” on the album cover shows, to of our main influences are VENOM and IRON MAIDEN and I think this summarizes it quite well. But of course bands such as MOTÖRHEAD, JUDAS PRIEST,
SLAYER, KREATOR, SODOM, BATHORY, GBH, RAMONES, ENTOMBED, AGENT STEEL, VAN HALEN, WHIPLASH, TURBONEGRO or W.A.S.P.. are among our influences. I guess that all bands we listen to leave their marks in the KNIFE sound.
Your full-length album was recorded at Fat Knob Studio. Can you please tell us some more about the recording session? How did it go? How much time did you spend recording these songs?
The recordings were done by our drummer Ferli in his Fat Knob Studio. After starting with the drums we added the rest of the instruments and Ferli and Laz spent a lot of time to find the right sound of the album. It was important to capture the energy. If you read the name KNIFE you know what to expect. And this is what we wanted to have.
Before the debut album was out, you guys released some eps including two tapes (“Black Leather Hounds” and “Locked In”). Tell us now, why you decided to release these on tape?
Don’t you think that tapes are old-school to the bone?
When we started the band we wanted to give the people a first glance of what to expect when the KNIFE is risen. I think playing in an old school band requires an old school recording medium.
We did not want to do an online release only. We wanted to give the underground a nice release, something to enjoy and collect. It did not make sense to release a CD or a 7 inch vinyl. So we wanted the first
releases to be something special. We’ll hopefully release the album on tape as well.
Well, apparently, a lot of people were interested in buying your tapes. Weird, right?I mean because tapes are just getting popular again, it wasn’t like this for a long time. What do you think about it? I can understand fans are into vinyls (quality of sound) but tapes, huh?
We were really surprised that the tapes sold quite well from the beginning. The second edition of the “Black Leather Hounds” was sold out within a few hours. Insane! Of course the best medium for our kind of music is the vinyl but I think that a tape is nice collectible but not really a serious medium for the perfect sound.
Your image is totally traditional and the way it used to be – that is, an integral part of music. This is sad that there are so many bands these days who forget about it. They usually create
good, interesting music but they look, at the same time, like a bunch of pussies. Why? Wasn’t like this in the past, that’s for sure!
think it is two-edged sword. Wearing denim and leather obviously is a kind of an image but this is just the way we think a Metal band should look like. Come on, it can’t be any better. Chains and Leather forever!
I do not really get why new bands do not care about their image. To us, Metal is a way of living and we want to convey this image to the people. But some even care TOO much and focus more on “looking 80s” than being authentic. A mustache and a mullet do not automatically make people Metal.To me, metal music has always been strictly associated with somewhat kitschy looking
layout/front covers. Well, paradoxically, that has always helped to make bands more recognizable.
Don’t you think that your front cover fits this pattern as well?
I hope so, hehe. The photos and artworks are very important. If you have a cover like ours people know what to expect: the grimness of steel! The artwork is obviously influenced by some of our 80s faves so we also wanted to pay homage to the old Gods of Iron.
Maybe you can identify the different artworks that had an impact on the “Knife” artwork. Last year, you released another tape cassette titled “Sounds of Sacrifice”. It features three
different songs titled “Sacrifice”. Two of these belong to VENOM and BATHORY and one is your own. That’s a good idea to compile all three songs together, tell me how did you get the idea of such a release?
I am not really sure how the idea emerged. I guess it came up while listening to these ancient gods. Our song “Sacrifice” was originally entitled “Sound of Sacrifice”. At some point we discussed the fact
that there are several songs with that title. So we decided to cover them and make a fine compilation.
By the way, the live video of the “Sounds of Sacrifice” session was shot on Cronos’ birthday. Nice coincidence. Originally we planned to include MOTÖRHEAD’s “Sacrifice” as well, but it did not fit the atmosphere.
And it is also not that easy to play, hehe.
For many fans, to be inspired by other bands aint a problem. For instance, Quorthon claimed he had not been inspired by VENOM which is not true since there are a lot of similarities between these two bands: VENOM and BATHORY, right?
On the flip side, Quorthon removed any “funny” elements from this genre, he indeed planted the seed of darkness in this sort of music and thus this genre`s level of extremism became much higher. Well, if you were to choose which one was better, BATHORY or VENOM what would be your choice?
You’re right. I never understood why Quorthon claimed that he was not influenced or at least inspired by Venom. But thinking about which band is better...puh, that is a tough choice. Well, as you said, BATHORY brought the true darkness into Metal but I really dig the “Fuck you”-attitude of VENOM’s irst three records. On the other hand we also have the epic BATHORY records...Holy hell...well, I think VENOM would be my choice, at least when just considering the impact (and their three first records and singles).You videoed the whole “Sounds of Sacrifice” session.
Can you please elaborate on this topic a little bit?
We were tired of all these bands doing these high quality “live in the studio” sessions. People in their everyday clothes playing music with “good” sound and so on. Our video is the antithesis to these
videos. It should just show four Metalheads in a nasty rehearsal space, sacrificing their souls to the Gods of Rock N Roll!
Do you have any other videos part from “Sounds of Sacrifice”?
After the lyric video for “Black Leather Hounds”, we shot the first video “Sword Loser” for the release of the “Black Leather Hounds” tape. We wanted to give the people who did not get a copy of the tape the chance to enjoy our music. There are also two videos to the songs “Chromium Prayer” and “K.N.I.F.E.” but they are rather visualizers. The second real video clip is “Inside the Electric Church” followed by “Behold the Horse of War”.Well, time is flying by so quick, right? I am sure you guy are working on some new songs.
Are you going to release any new stuff this year? How will these new songs compare to what we already know?
We were busy writing songs during the winter and they will be released later this year. They still follow the tradition of the first album. Fast, raw, aggressive Speed Metal Punk. In your face.
You guys are involved in other bands beside KNIFE, right? Can you please tell us some more about this topic a little bit?
Laz and I used to play together in an Action Rock band for more than 20 years. This band went on hiatus. Ferli is involved in several other bands such as CARNAL GHOUL and MILKING THE GOAT MACHINE. But currently we are all focusing on KNIFE
Well, after two years of no live shows, the situation seems to be improving! Plenty of summer fests are going to take place this year. So, you guys are playing at Wacken this year, huh? That’s really nice. Excited? Where else are you going to play live this year?
It is really weird to get the chance to play Wacken. I was there in 2000 and watching VENOM among other great bands. And now we will be there to play. Amazing. We are really excited. This is going to
be great. We will play some great festivals this summer like the Basinfest in Czech Republic, Pitfest in the Netherlands and Rock Hard Festival in Germany. At the end of this year we will play a 4 dates show with SODOM. Hell yeah!
Well, I am not sure if you know of the very wild, truly possessed fans here in Poland. So, when are you guys going to come over and play live in Poland?
We hope to come to Poland as soon as possible. We’ve already received some messages. Hopefully we will come to you maniacs this autumn. We’ll work on that.
I know you are now busy with your debut album recording session. How is this process going? Any issues?
Can you please elaborate a little on your new album?
We were busily recording new material the last winter and we can’t wait to unleash hell upon the headbanging hordes. Unfortunately I can not tell you more about it, but you can be sure that it will blow your speakers like the debut album did. Be prepared for an overdose of KNIFE Metal.
Like, you know, how many songs it will feature, the album`s title, what’s the name of the studio and who is the producer/sound engineer?
We decided to record the new album in the Fat Knob Studios again, with Ferli being the producer. The album title as well as the song titles and all the other important information will be published very
soon. There are still many things in progress. Stay tuned
When is it supposed to be released? Is Dying Victims going to be your label again?
The new album will be released via Napalm Records sometime this year. We still can’t give further information.
Can you please tell us more about the video clip you are making? Thanks.
The only thing I can tell you is that you can expect a tribute to the ancient Gods of Steel
Right, time to wrap up, I guess. Anything to add, any last words for our old school metal maniac mag readers?
Thanks, and take care.
First of all, thank you for the interview. And of course thanx to all the bangers you supported us. We hope to play Eastern Europe very soon. Until then, stay clean and do not forget to raise the fuckin’
KNIFE! Cheers.
Poprawiony (sobota, 29 kwietnia 2023 18:29) |