Apocalypse Orchestra Interview

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

After the release party we took a well deserved vacation for a few weeks, the recording process took over nine months so we were all a bit exhausted. The video for The Garden of Earthly Delights have skyrocketed and now has over 900 000 views which feels quite unreal. We have plans on doing another video and will soon launch a new website.

2.In May you had released a new album, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?

Doom flavoured medieval metal with a modern production. Many layers of sound and a multitude of instruments, hurdy gurdy, bagpipes and mandola on top of the electric guitars, bass and drums. Epic choirs mixed with church organs.

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

We're intrigued by historical oddities such as the flagellant movement and plague doctors as well as the little mans struggle in their everyday strife. Religious prosecution and at the same time the need for belief in eternal reward in the afterlife. The horrors of war, famine and the black death.


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

The word Apocalypse comes from the greek word”apokaluptein” which means to uncover or reveal. So apart from being the end of the world it also has a deeper meaning, that maybe something new will come after. This makes it quite ambiguos, gives it both a soft and a hard side. This suits our music.

5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?

One of our first gigs was with a symphonic orchestra and that was magical to say the least.
Our performances usually contain something more than just a band on a stage. We want to give the audience an experience beyond the music. Of course it depends on the venue but we've hade fire breathers and dancers, live choir and projected animations tailored for each song.

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

People ask us that a lot! If it was up to us we would love to do some tours, but then someone has to book us first. Since our album was released in may we missed all the summer festivals but perhaps some shows will be booked this fall and we have already been asked about playing festivals next year.

7.The new album was released on 'Despotz Records', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

Despotz Records is an indie label based in Stockholm but they're expanding quite fast. They have bands in all genres, from electronica to black metal. They've been absolutely awesome to work with. We've had complete freedom on all accounts, from music and lyrics to artwork. Check out their catalogue and give them some love!

8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of folk and doom metal?

The overall reception of the album has been overwhelming! People seem to really like what we do and we've been told several times that our music is different and unique which feels really good to hear. Our mix of slow metal and medieval music is rare, I honestly don't know anyone else who's done it before.

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

There's a lot of ideas for the next album already but it is to early to tell where it will take us. Though it will for certain be in the same vein as The End is Nigh.

10.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your newer music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

Everyone in the band listens to many different bands and genres but we have som common denominators. Type O Negative, Opeth, Myrkur and Amorphis to name a few. I personally listen to medieval music for inspiration.

11.What are some of your non musical interests?

There isn't much time left for other things than the music since we all work full time jobs and some of us have families. But one cool thing to mention is that our bassist Rikard is a professional black smith and has made the burial cross we sometimes have on stage with us.

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

Take care and spread the plague!