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Interview Interrogation: Nothing Lies Beyond (Israel)

28/7/2016

Truth be told, Israel is one of the more active metal scenes in the Middle East (let's not get political here) alongside the likes of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, the Gulf States (Bahrain and Kuwait; Qatar less so) and to a certain extent The Lebanon.

Salem, Orphaned Land, Arallu, Melechesh, they've all graced and kissed the golden sands of this Mediterranean nation, the latest to walk in their footsteps are Nothing Lies Beyond. A Melodic Death Metal force with enough ferocity about them to challenge the already-overloaded Swedish (nay Gothenburg) Metal scene.

So what makes this Israeli outfit an exciting one to watch? Well let's find out.

Guys in recent years the Israeli Metal scene has been flourishing and breaking international ground, what would you put this success to?

          "Hey! I think that the reason that the Israeli metal scene is flourishing in the past 3-4 years and actually getting some recognition on the global ground is because there are more interest from the local bands to break into the global scene.

          It's not something new of course, every band wants to get as much attention as possible, especially I think if you are living outside of the main music areas like the US and Europe, but the thing that helped us in the past years is mainly in my opinion, the whole digital era. There are more ways to bring your music to other people then there were before, when you needed in the past to send physical CD's or cassettes, now you can send a digital version of the album and of course the whole Facebook and YouTube platform.

          So to summarize it, I think that because of the digital platforms, many Israeli bands and also as I said, bands that are not from the US or EU, can now reach new exposure levels.

Would it be right to say that metal music offers Israeli's a means of expressing discontent during dangerous times? E.g. war, attacks, etc. But also can metal music bring the world together regardless of social, political and religious differences?

        "Well, you can say that the music that we make gives us a way to get our words out, about politics or any other difficulty that we face in our country.

          But I can say the same thing about any kind of music from any part of the world. Music gives us a way to express our feelings and thoughts, no matter what separates us – religious, social status, political differences.. We can hear the music that somebody else created and just enjoy.

          I don't know if metal music in specific, or any music for that matter can "bring the world together", but I'm sure that nobody would pay any attention to the artist's nation, religion, etc.. if the actual music is good for the listener.

Your debut album 'Fragile Reality' came out 22nd July, could you give us the background behind it and what your messages are?

        "The album's main topic is the struggles that we have to face in our life, I think that "Closed In Chains" and also "Lost" are the songs with the lyrics that pronounce the idea behind "Fragile Reality" in the best way. We tried to present our music in the best way, and I think that the outcome was perfect."

How supportive is Israeli society of metal music, does the Government know about it? How hard is it for metal music to exist in the Middle East?

          "I can say only our opinion about the whole Israeli's music preferences so maybe some people will think differently about the whole situation..

          In my opinion, metal music is not so "big" in Israel, there were times that the crowd in shows was bigger and there were more local bands, but I think that it depends on the whole environment and "musical era" of the specific time..

          Nowadays, people connect more to pop or electronic music because it's catchy, and in our country specific also for Middle Eastern style (not my cup of tea to be honest), so I do think that maybe in the 90's, the connection to metal music and the whole genres that it includes was bigger.

          I think that metal music could exist in any place, as long as people keep listen to it. Maybe in some countries in the Middle East it's "forbidden" or something like that, but in Israel we can play as much as we want and whatever we want to play."

Will you be embarking on a European or 'Eurasian' tour to promote the album? Surely the UAE would be an ideal location as well as Israel in the Middle East?

        "Actually, we are not planning to go on tour yet, there are some private issues that deny us from touring at this moment, but I do think that in the right time we will start planning our first tour.
We will try to play our music as much as we can and in any place that will be available, not only Europe (that is our main goal for now), but also maybe in Japan and other places in the East that in my opinion has great potential."

Talk to us more about the Israeli Metal scene, what festivals are there, clubs, markets, in fact what is a day like in Israel?

          "OK, so first of all, the metal scene in Israel is not so big. There are many people who love metal music over here, but if you compare it to the numbers in Europe... It's really not so many.

          Nevertheless, there are local producers that try to bring over here an international band every couple of months, so we do enjoy a variety of metal bands that come to Israel and perform. Regarding festivals and clubs... usually there aren't any festivals over here, not in metal anyway, we do enjoy the shows over here, but usually it consist of a local band as an opening act (as we were for Children of Bodom), and the headliner.

          The clubs for metal are also few, as I said before, I know that in the early days there were more clubs that gave metal bands an opportunity, but one after the other they closed the gates and now there isn't as much as used to be.

          In terms of the day here in Israel, it's pretty much the same as in any other place (only probably hotter haha)... we do live in a country that has its own problems, if it's local problems or international problems, but I think that every person here in Israel just try to live his life quietly as possible.

Is it true that Israeli's have to do service be it army, navy, air force? Have any of you done this?

          Yes it's true. In Israel, when you turn 18 years old (not at the very moment... it could take up to a year until you can get recruited, but usually its at the age of 18), you are joining the army. For men its about 3 years and for women it's 2 years of service, they are changing it a little bit now but it will remain in the area of those numbers.

          Usually everybody has to recruit to the army but you know..There are special cases sometimes. Alon and me already finished our service, and the rest of the guys are doing it now or about to start, we can't elaborate on what we did during our service but I can honestly say that this experience toughen us and made us ready for the "real world".

          I do know some bands that the army torn apart because the band members couldn’t meet on a regular basis due to their jobs... so it really depends on what you are doing in your own service.

          What plans have you got for the rest of the year?

          "We are now focusing mainly on the album release and all the things that it includes, if it’s the CD release and after that we are planning a massive release show, so mainly this is what we are focusing on for the next 2-3 months. After the release show we will continue performing and maybe start planning our tour, and beside that we will start in early 2017 to work on the next album's music.
So it's going to be a busy year!"

          Finally have you got any greetings you wish to send out?

        "Well first of all, we want to thank you guys for the interview, it was a pleasure. We also want to thank all of our followers around the world for the support that they give to us. We hope to see everybody soon on stage and we hope that you will like our album."

https://www.facebook.com/NothingLiesBeyond/

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Interview Interrogation: Ascent (Russia)

15/7/2016

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Russian Metal music tends to get overlooked by the international scene with perhaps the exception of Arkona and Pagan/Folk Metal bands alike, or perhaps Katalepsy of whose Death metal brethren we speak to in the form of Ascent. Ascent are lead by Anna Dizendorf on vocals, yes the term 'female-fronted' was avoided because let's be honest, do we say 'male-fronted'? No, 'female-fronted' is not a decent term to be used, anyway enough debating said topic.

Ascent have just released their debut album "Don't Stop When You Walk Through the Hell" back in June and coinciding with this have inked a deal with Ukrainian PR / label Grand Sounds Promotion, GMA decided it was time to catch up with this beautiful bunch.

Ascent - here to reap your soul

"Of course we won't gain millions (of fans) with the first album; probably never will cos it's not pop music"

Hi guys, how does it feel to be releasing not only your debut album "Don't Stop When You Walk Through the Hell", but also through Sliptrick Records

          "Hi there! We're so proud to work with such a cool label and release our very first album on really good terms. We actually waiting for peoples reaction to it."

What style of Death Metal have you opted for? Modern? Old-School? What makes your sound different from the already-saturated Death Metal scene?

          "We opted for an old-school style in general. But you know we do listen to a very huge variety of different musics and styles. So we mixed all the stuff we like and tried to create something interesting. We're Russian and it's funny cos you for sure don't know many bands from here. And we think that people will be interested to see and hear what's going on on our metal scene."

Given your locality, is it hard to tour Russia? How do most bands go to play the big cities like St. Petersburg, Moscow, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, etc? Are there any challenges Russian bands face these days?

          "The main challenge is... to play music itself. Because Russia is a large country with very little interest in metal music. It's complicated anyway to tour there because of the thousands of kilometres between cities, and when people don't go see shows you obviously don't gain anything. It's a pity. Speaking about capitals and big cities you talk to organizers there and usually go to perform with no payment. Especially if you're not Katalepsy".

Is Heavy Metal music popular in Russia or is it very underground? It seems a lot of Russian bands are ignored by the West, with only a handful like Arkona and Katalepsy making waves, do you think it's ignorance or something else that holds bands back?

          "As it was mentioned before it's not so popular. But it's not completely underground either. And what holds Russian bands back is only laziness, cos who is gonna stand in your way when you want something really hard? No one right? Also there are some points of view which could mess up any musician who doesn't have big experience in the music industry. And many Russian bands just don't get the information they need and don't even try to. That's stupid."

Could you give us a brief background behind the album, what topics the tracks cover and what the songs mean to you as a band?

          "Well the album was created when it was a one-man project. Semyon was sitting at home writing songs and thinking of a conception. Then the band gathered, all recordings were completed and we have what we have. So what's going on there is simple: we had enough holy wars throughout the band to create an album that sounds not normal for modern listeners. Not popular if you want. So it could be hard to understand but we want to sound as we want to sound no matter what. And lyrics are about what we see in every second of our life. All our thoughts about surroundings and the atmosphere we live in."

Watch your back

What was it like when the Soviet Union collapsed? What was life like after the USSR ceased to exist? Are you surprised that metal music has reached the likes of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan among the other former USSR nations?

          "It was double hell man. So many people didn't know what to do during that time because they never learned how to live another way. So it was a criminal attitude during the 90's. Now life is easier but something bad always goes on, so Russian people never relax. And no we are not surprised that metal reached each and every country. It's a worldwide culture so it won't be stopped by borders."

What plans does the band have in terms of promoting the album? Will you aim to play in the UK?

        "We want to play for as many people as we can. Of course we won't gain millions with the first album (probably never will cos it's not pop music). We want to get to some level in the metal industry and receive maximum feedback. That's all we need right now. Touring, videos, some good open air shows perhaps etc. And of course we want to play in the UK if somebody invites us there."

Would you contemplate entering the Eurovision Song Contest next year? What are your thoughts on it?

          "No cos we will win 100% in the grand final so it wouldn't be interesting for anybody to watch the contest ;)"

Finally have you got any hello's or thanks that you wish to send out?

          "Yeah! Hype to Katalepsy! And hopefully we will meet as soon as possible. Catch us on the road! Good luck and bye! ;)

http://www.facebook.com/ascentmetalband/

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Interview Interrogation: Mick from Corners Of Sanctuary (USA)

14/7/2016

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The American Metal scene is so vast and so populated with metal bands that trying to name them all in one go would be near to impossible as you can get. That said, there are those who make progress and make a name for themselves, on the conveyor belt of progression are Pennsylvania's Corners of Sanctuary. GMA caught up with guitarist / keyboardist Mick to find out what drives this concrete force.

"If you like all that is Amish, we have Lancaster, which is home to one of the State's best and well-known all-you-can-eat buffets" - (Mick on what to do in Pennsylvania)

Since your latest release 'Metal Machine', what has the COS horde been up to?

          "Not too much. Since “Metal Machine” came out we released three music videos as part of the album's promotional campaign (“Left Scarred,” “Wrecking Ball” and “Tomorrow Never Comes”). Shortly after “Metal Machine,” we released a Holiday album last December. We’ve been touring as well to support the album which has included shows with Butcher Babies, Grim Reaper, Green Jello and Act of Defiance.

          We have a new band member, Mad T, on drums. We are set to release a best of compilation on July 26th titled “Declaration of Metal.” The compilation will have tracks from each of our albums plus a brand new song. A music video will also accompany the compilation's release. Along with more shows this summer into the fall, we will begin working on recording our next album in August and look to release it sometime in 2017. So like I said, not too much."

You signed to Metalizer Records for the release of 'Metal Machine', surely this has to be a step forward for the band?

          "Signing with Metalizer Records has been great for us… a lot of new doors have opened. The label really supports what we are doing and has offered us the opportunity to expand our fan base. Our market reach has definitely increased. It has been a great experience."

What is the current status of the Pennsylvania Metal scene? Is it alive and well?

          "The music scene here is alive and well and it’s very diverse. Metal definitely has its loyal contingent but it is somewhat one-sided with respects to the genre style of choice. The majority of Metal bands seem to lean more towards the heavier to extreme styles. The classic, traditional sound, like that of Corners of Sanctuary, is more of a niche and a small niche at that. The upside to that for us is that we are offering something different enough to get noticed. Another factor for us is that we do a lot of travel. So we are regularly in other markets and don't play our home area that often… when we do it’s always something special."

Is it hard nowadays for American Metal bands to make a name for themselves?

          "I think it's hard for any band, anywhere to make a name for themselves. There is so much music available and so many bands out there that it is easy to get lost in the crowd. But the beauty is that listeners’ tastes run the gamut and there is a place for everyone. The key is to do something that is honest and true and not fake it. The fans can tell. Whatever it is you do, just do it well."

For those who don't know who COS are, could you give us a brief background history?

          "COS formed in early 2011 after a couple of us had been working on a short-term reunion project with the band Seeker. We wanted to get back to our musical roots and do what we weren't hearing at the time. After writing a handful of songs we released our first album, “Breakout”, in 2012. In 2013 we brought Frankie on board as lead singer. And this year we brought on Mad T as our new drummer. Since forming, the band has released four full-length albums, a Holiday album and a few EP's."

What hobbies / interests do you have outside of your day job and band work?

        "Spending time with my family is how I indulge most of my free time. Hanging out with them and watching movies and eating Asian cuisine is always great. I also actively pursue health and fitness. I believe it to be an essential part of maintaining quality of life. And I enjoy studying Eastern philosophy and culture. I find it gives me perspective."

Will you be doing a nationwide tour anytime soon? Have you performed outside of the USA before?

          "Already this year we have done an East Coast and Midwest tour of the US in support of “Metal Machine”. We will be doing a short New England tour in late July and part of the fall. To date, we have yet to performed outside the United States but are looking to go to Germany in 2017. We are keeping our fingers crossed."

For those visiting Pennsylvania, what attractions should metal fans check out?

        "Depending on your interests we have the PA Grand Canyon and Valley Forge for those nature and history buffs. If you like all that is Amish, we have Lancaster, which is home to one of the State's best and well-known all-you-can-eat buffets. And of course there is the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia...plenty there to do and see: South Street, the historic district, Chinatown and Penn's Landing. You’ll definitely find some great restaurants and a thriving nightlife. For those who like to gamble and catch a show, Atlantic City is only a stone's throw away."

Finally have you got any greetings you wish to send out?

        "Thank you Rhys for speaking with me and giving us the opportunity to share with your readers some info on Corners of Sanctuary. We also would like to thank all of our friends and fans who have supported us - we are so very grateful!

          A special thanks to our COS Staff as well as to our labels Metalizer Records and Exquisite Noise Records, and to our sponsors Coldcock Whiskey, Sinister Guitar Picks, George L's Guitar Cables and Explore Apparel."

https://www.facebook.com/CornersofSanctuary
http://www.cornersofsanctuary.com/

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Interview Interrogation: Nothing Lies Beyond (Israel)

Interview Interrogation: Ascent (Russia)

"Of course we won't gain millions (of fans) with the first album; probably never will cos it's not pop music"

Interview Interrogation: Mick from Corners Of Sanctuary (USA)

"If you like all that is Amish, we have Lancaster, which is home to one of the State's best and well-known all-you-can-eat buffets" - (Mick on what to do in Pennsylvania)

© 2011-2017
Global Metal Apocalypse

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Interview Interrogation: Nothing Lies Beyond (Israel)

Interview Interrogation: Ascent (Russia)

"Of course we won't gain millions (of fans) with the first album; probably never will cos it's not pop music"

Interview Interrogation: Mick from Corners Of Sanctuary (USA)

"If you like all that is Amish, we have Lancaster, which is home to one of the State's best and well-known all-you-can-eat buffets" - (Mick on what to do in Pennsylvania)

© 2011-2017Global Metal Apocalypse

Archives

Categories

© 2011-2017
Global Metal Apocalypse