INTERVIEW with Djinn & Miskatonic

Djinn & Miskatonic is a doom metal band based in Bangalore, India. The band has presented its superlative musicality in their EP forever in the realm and live performances. We interviewed them ahead of Transcending Obscurity Fest to be held in Thane this May. Read the conversation here.

1. Greetings! How are you doing?
Doom metal is known as a genre evoking a sense of gloom, generally with continual, low and droning music. What inspires artists like you to pursue such a melancholic genre? Is it an expression of emotions, passion and fears or is it a reflection of societal conditions?

Sriram: Greetings, mortals. Humanity is doomed anyway. It is pointless to dwell on mundane issues like society. Let’s leave the angsty hollering and bird-flipping-in-the-general-direction-of-“the establishment” to thrash metal and grindcore bands, shall we? I tend to find escape in weird and fantastic realms carved out in words and pictures and that hopefully translates into the music we play. The slow, crushing nature of doom metal provides the perfect musical soundtrack for the sort of themes that we like to write about.

GK: Doom metal is a form of release. We escape in doom and tell a few stories.

2. Djinn & Miskatonic has presented music which is a reflection of the rich sources which the band derives inspiration from- a desolate atmosphere with slow Sabbathian riffage, and sometimes even catchy and attacking! Please elaborate on the band’s musical influences.

Sriram: We all bring a few diverse influences into the band, really. Black Sabbath is obviously the holy grail of everything, along with ‘70s proto-doom bands like Sir Lord Baltimore, Blue Cheer, Bedemon and Pentagram. New wave doom bands like Electric Wizard, Sleep, Church of Misery and Reverend Bizarre in particular have influenced us hugely in wanting to tune low and play slow. JP and I also share a healthy love for traditional ‘80s heavy metal and thrash, and that shows through sometimes as well. GK (vocalist) listens to a crazy amount of music ranging from extreme metal to singer-songwriter stuff. Sid (drummer) is largely into superfast, technical stuff; (he co-founded and plays drums for a band called Nihilus that fast, technical death metal). Our songs allow room for incorporating a lot of different styles within the framework of doom metal. A good example of that would be the black metal-esque ending to Weird Tales.

3. How does the band perceive doom metal musically and non-musically- in terms of attitude and philosophy? What ideology or art distinguishes the worldview doom metal seeks to uphold, from the rest of heavy metal?

JP: Not a lot. We just prefer Conan the Barbarian, Vincent Price, Jim Thompson, the Silver Surfer and Barbarella to reality. Jane Fonda for the win!

GK: Doom metal helps me out. The crushing monotony of daily life is alleviated by the doom. I think it would be fait to say that we present our music in a doom metal framework because we like slow and heavy music but in terms of ideology and worldview, we’re not particularly bleak or soul crushing in our delivery. You could dance to some of it. So sometimes I’m not entirely comfortable with being called doom metal in the strictest sense. We need to be called something I guess and doom metal is close enough.

Sriram: Doom is not fundamentally different from heavy metal in ethos. It’s just the weird kid of metal that took being slow and menacing to an extreme. Same whine, different battle. *chuckle*

4. What forms the basis of a Djinn & Miskatonic song? Is it a concept fitted into a musical narrative or anything else? How do you build on it?

JP: A few stolen blues basslines, bang on the drums a lot, overdrive the guitar amp and get someone quiet to sing for a change.

GK: Am I the quiet one or are you getting someone else to sing?

Sriram: And drugs and alcohol, of course. Can’t forget those!

5. The band’s lyrical themes lace around occultism, witchery, alcoholism, etc. Are there any non-musical sources that inspire the band’s songwriting– literature, movies, graphics, etc.?

JP: I’m very fond of fonts. That helps a lot.

GK: Yeah. Book of the Fallen is based on Steven Erikson’s epic of the same name. The song Weird Tales pretty much lists out or literary influences. I think going back to your earlier question about ideology that pretty much is it. Playing the music we like and telling the stories we want to.

Sriram: A dash of fascination with the morbid, a pinch of penchant for the weird and drugs and alcohol. Lots of drugs and alcohol.

 

 

6. To what extent do you think are the despair-evoking sound of the genre and the values and ideas which the music expresses related? Or is there no pre-decided thought process as such that doom metal seeks to induce, and keeps it open to the perception of the listener?

Sriram: Oh, they are very much connected. You cannot go around singing lyrics about love and peace and puppy dogs when the music behind it is more apt for summoning an Elder god and pounding your head into the ground. (Let it be noted, though, that never has there ever been a more jaunty call to the end-times than “Doom Over the World” by Reverend Bizarre!).

7. Please describe ‘Djinn & Miskatonic’ and the idea behind naming the band so.

JP: It was a joke and now it’s gone too far. Only Gautham knows where the bodies are buried.

GK: It was a good joke. Totally worth the muddy boots, sprained back and blood stains on the backseat.

8. Djinn & Miskatonic’s music is quite entrenched in the ways of traditional doom. What do you think of incorporation of ‘stylistic novelties’ in metal, for example, incorporation of elements of Eastern music, like the droning essence of Indian classical music?

Sriram: We’ve never consciously thought about using eastern scales/progressions in our music. Slow doom metal is enough of a stylistic novelty in itself, I’d reckon.

GK: If it’s done well it sounds great Lots of potential for utter failure though.

 

9. Through what elements does the Djinn & Miskatonic’s music assert its independent identity which distinguishes it from other doom metal bands?

JP: We’re willing to take it down to funeral doom tempos, but we’re okay with a burst of death metal speed too. We wanna go, we wanna go hot rocking.

10. Djin & Miskatonic’s inception saw the band consisting of only drums, bass and vocals, yet firmly grounded in the essence of doom metal. How has the journey been since then and what changes has the band’s sound gone through?

JP: There’s more Steely Dan in the mix now, maybe a bit of Blood Sweat & Tears, Rare Earth. You’re going to hear a lot more Marvin Gaye in our songs from now on.

GK: Yeah. Sriram claims to like thrash and death and what not but this is what he’s actually brought to the band. Accessibility and women.

 

11. What are your thoughts on doom metal in India? In what ways do you think this sub-genre maintains its individual musical ingenuity? Or is it a mere continuation of the arc of metal?

Sriram: It is definitely a branch of the great big tree of metal, that’s for sure. But I think we’ve seen potential for doom/stoner/sludge to be a subculture in its own right. There are about 6 bands right now in Bangalore alone playing some derivative of doom metal and each one of them has something unique to offer with their sound. Bevar Sea’s style has a lot of ‘70s rock and proto-doom in it, Shepherd integrate Seattle/Washington sound influences (Melvins, AIC, Soundgarden) with southern sludge, Witchdoctor have a Scandinavian-by-way-of-funeral-doom sort of sound to them while Dying Embrace is more steeped in the doom-death liturgies of Celtic Frost, Asphyx and Autopsy. With Djinn there’s traces of traditional heavy metal, doom-death and . And of course, the one thread that connects all of us is the mighty Sabbath! As for the rest of India, Dormant Inferno from Bombay is definitely a band to watch out for. It’s still a very small movement, both in terms of the number of bands playing and the audiences, but there certainly is increased awareness, even if not acceptance, of the doomier forms of metal.

 

“Forever In The Realm” artwork

12. The band’s debut album was released by Transcending Obscurity India. How important has the record label proved to be for the band? Share with us the experience.

GK: It’s been great. I’ve known KC for a long while now. I think we were recording our first album when he decided he wanted to do an Indian sub of his label and things pretty much fell into place. It’s been a pretty peaceful, hassle free arrangement so far. KC on his own though is doing a pretty great job with his label. Can’t wait to come to Thane again for Transcending Obscurity Fest.

Sriram: It’s a huge plus, having someone to do the grunt-work for you. KC takes care of the ghastly chores like the shameless whoring, convincing people to buy our CDs and (*shudder*) shipping CDs out when people actually order the damn things. KC is a long-time friend of ours and I guess it just made sense to leverage his experience and network so we can chill out and focus on stealing ideas from Tom Petty songs. And do drugs and alcohol, of course. Can’t forget the drugs and alcohol!

13. How bold do you think is the decision to pursue doom metal in India? What do you think is the extent of acceptance by listeners, and what is the usual fan reaction at gigs?

Sriram: Doom metal does remain a niche sub-genre with a small but dedicated fanbase. Metal still tends to be tagged as fast, aggressive music and well, doom is pretty much the antithesis of that. We still see quite a few baffled and quizzical faces in the audience and a lot of that is because the exposure to this kind of music, and particularly with Djinn’s type of bleak, long-winded doom, is still limited at best. And I’m not betting on that changing any time in the near future.

GK: The music chooses you. We had no choice.

14. Djinn & Miskatonic is going to be a part of Transcending Obscurity Fest. Do you have any message for those who are going to attend the show? Is there new material in store?

Sriram: There’s ONLY new material in store, I reckon. Of course we’ll have to play some of our popular songs (We heard KC and Riju have worked out an interpretative dance duet for “Book of the Fallen”). Quite looking forward to it. And also, hey Bombay, please don’t mosh to doom metal. It’s impressive, but kinda insulting.

GK: Yeah, maybe 3 new songs and one off the album. And ignore Sriram. That 30 second mosh pit last time was epic. Was a great crowd last time and hoping for more of the same. Looking forward to catching up with a few people and putting on a good tight set. We get to play alongside some great bands and Transcending Obscurity Fest should be a blast.

IMS: Thanks a lot for your time. See you guys soon!

 

You can buy the album “Forever in the Realm” here!

RSVP to the event “Transcending Obscurity fest” here!

–Image Credits – Danish R.D./Danz Photography

–Interviewed by Debarati Das

INTERVIEW with Das Hubris

Das Hubris formed only in 2013, is a comparatively new band that plays hard rock drawing inspiration from the likes of Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Cream, Deep Purple and Guns ‘N’ Roses. The band have proved their good musical acumen through some memorable live performances in the city and two singles.

1. Please introduce the band and tell us about the inception of Das Hubris.

DH : For sure! I am Animikh, the vocalist of Das Hubris. For Forged In Fire II, you’ll be seeing me,
Debarchan (Guitars), Debjit (Guitars), and Gourab “da” (drums) on stage.
I specifically wrote “For Forged In Fire II…” because we have been a very unstable line-up from the start. I and Debarchan got together late in Class XI (2010), and would discuss music online for hours. He was a neophyte at the guitar then, and he had a thirst for playing live. And I, then star-struck by the glory of rock n’ roll, wrote a few songs with him. This went on for about 2 years, when we were playing at our friends’ place for about 2 days a week, labeling ourselves as The Rick n Mick Blues Group (Rick is his nickname).
After said time, Debarchan found PiKu “da” to play drums with us. Momentum immediately picked up, and we recorded Running From The Law, and Tipsy Evening Blues (demos) then and there. We released them online and adopted the name Das Hubris.

2. What is the meaning and significance behind the name ‘Das Hubris’?

DH : In German , “Das Auto” literally translates to “The Car” . “Das” encompasses more of an idea , than a single meaning . It basically means a singular thing .
As for “Hubris” ,the word means “insolence: arrogance , such as invites disaster” (‘Chamber’s..’) It is often associated with “pride ,with a lack of humility, though not always with the lack of knowledge.”

You can relate with me here , since you and I actually know how it feels to be a part of a country , that is run by incapability , deception, and sick brazen lies , etc . There you are eating your cereal one fine morning , when you get the paper , or switch on the news , and the fit hits the shan – But you are not in the dark . You actually know what’s wrong . You actually see through the deception these days easily. So you are knowledgeable of the shit that happens around you.
Neither is there quantity culture. Many substantial people remain unknown faces , and are either subdued , dominated by rotten prejudice , or simply – shy and scared.

Being hubristic here isn’t an unusual suggestion for us. Humility is not to be awarded to the incapable , we feel . We must conquer , with Hubris – that which binds us down.

Thus , Hubris.

https://soundcloud.com/das-hubris

3. Which musicians have influenced you personally and as a band? Do you incorporate the essence of such influences in your music?

DH : Of course we incorporate the essence of that which inspires us .
Hadn’t it been for Jim Morrison , Elvis Presley and Ozzy Osbourne specifically , I would never have had the faith to do vocal duties . From them I learnt , that prowess is power definitely , but
feeling what you sing is important too .
And I know how much Debarchan loves the Blues . Eric Clapton , B.B. King , Jimmy Page are major influences for him .
Debjit has been more in touch with Classical music , and he (I am sure) would not deny influences and inspiration from Adrian Smith, and David Gilmour also .
Both of them are indebted to their guitar guru (and now , mine too) , Sri Alok Ghosh .
Gourab “da” has Dave Grohl , Keith Moon , and John Bonham as his primary influences .
As a performing band , we are influenced by Led Zeppelin , Cream , GnR , etc .

4. How much of original material have you put out so far? What does a typical Das Hubris setlist look like?

DH : We have put out 2 original compositions( demos ) so far , you know ‘em .
We will be playing both of them on 3rd May .
Our typical setlist would mainly have OCs , with occasional covers of bands we decide to pay a tribute to . They mostly include our influences .

5. Is there music that is written but yet to be released? When can we expect an EP/LP?

DH: Yes , we have a couple of songs that are fully ready to be jammed into . We will release them as demos again.
However , we are quite short on capital , you see .
Also , we aren’t signed under any record labels . If we must , then we have to finance it ourselves . So I won’t promise an EP/LP anytime soon .

6. Can you give us an insight into your songwriting process?

DH : Tipsy Evening Blues has been the standard for our songwriting process till date . The lyrics were never written (except for the chorus ) , and they are improvised everytime we’ve played live . Also the solo section is reset and improvised afresh every time . We enjoy this .
Normally else , someone comes up with a riff , or a beat , or an idea , and the whole band digs in , to build something concrete .

Debarchan has composed the riffs for both of our OCs , and I find writing the lyrics a less daunting thing to do than the others do !

7. Which is your dream band to open for?

DH: Almost all of our dream acts are about to retire .
I’d give anything to open for Black Sabbath (Atleast , till Tony Iommi is personally present)
I bet Debarchan would think Led Zeppelin , B.B. King , Pink Floyd …
Debjit might have Iron Maiden in his list .

However , looking over the past , and in our nation specifically , we’d find it an honor to open for Kryptos , or Albatross.

8. Das Hubris is a part of the brilliant line-up for Forged In Fire II. How do you feel about it? What should fans be looking forward to?

DH : KOSMA has our utmost respect for whatever it envisions. We would thank Samrat Daas and Avijit Shyam for giving us an opportunity to play , inexperienced though we are.
The acts succeeding us , are stellar groups of dedicated musicians in the scene presently , and it is an honor for us to be sharing the stage with them.
For our audience , we’ll be presenting an unadulterated set of no-bullshit rock n’ roll.

9. What has been your craziest gig/jam/experience as a band so far?

DH : When we used to jam at PiKu “da’s” place , we would keep jamming and improvising – and that would get extended to about an hour or so non-stop , till his mother would come and threaten to drag us out into the streets . Those have been fun times .

10. What musical goals do you seek to accomplish in the near future?

DH : We hope to survive . Many good bands in India have broken up , while sailing against the flow .
Also , we hope more OCs , more practice , a steady lineup , and a tighter act .

11. For all the hardware geeks at IMS, can you share some information about your equipment and rig?

DH : We use the cheapest gear possible .
Debarchan plays a Yemaha Les Paul copy , and Debjit , a Yemaha also . Both use basic processors (Korg AX5G and Zoom G1 Next).
Our drummer owns some signature drumsticks , and a basic , assembled , drum kit . That’s all .

12. How would you describe Das Hubris in a line?

DH : A funny fireball group of friends , in a funny, damp world.

13. Any message that you would like to send out to your fans?

DH: We thank you all for the steady support we’ve received from you. Join us in on 3rd May. We’re looking forward to it.

IMS : Thank you for your time. See you soon in the pit!

 

Read our ‘FORGED IN FIRE II’ gig preview, here!

You can RSVP to the event, here!

-Interviewed by Amogh Vaishampayan

 

 

NEWS: CYNIC BLISS Release Debut EP “Never Ending Conundrum”

Formed in 2012, Cynic Bliss is a four-piece Metalcore band based in Jabalpur who have showcased their musical prowess in a slew of prestigious events and competitions. The band has judged and headlined events in the city and has been first runners up in the contest hosted by the Inferno Metal Festival India, 2014.

Cynic Bliss is-

Prakash Gupta- Vocals

Ralice Anthony- Guitars

Palash Verma- Drums

Abhijeet Chourey- Bass

“Never Ending Conundrum” Artwork

The band recently released their debut EP ‘Never Ending Conundrum’ laced around the theme of the difficulties in life.

The EP consists of three tracks-

1. ‘Scream of Silence’

2. ‘Am I Dying’

3. ‘Restive Gag’

The EP has been produced by Ashwin Shriyan and the artwork, originally perceived by Rijul was finally designed by Vineet Sharma (Nocturnal India Art).

You can stream/listen the EP “Never Ending Conundrum” below :

To buy the EP “Never Ending Conundrum” click here!

INTERVIEW with Purgation

Purgation was formed in late 2010. With a change in their lineup as well as their sound, they decided to pursue all endeavors in the form of aggressive musicality. We had a chat with the band where they spoke about their latest EP, death metal, Forged In Fire II gig and more. Check out the conversation below –

1. Greetings! How have you been?

Purgation : Well pretty good, writing tracks for our next full length album and protesting against the false beliefs and system.

2. Why death metal? Why not any other genre?

Purgation : Evolution is the only thing true, metal has evolved a lot with time and has become more heavy and aggressive, we just love our metal that way. But at the same time evolution should be for the betterment and not for commercialization.
We just like to be true to our roots and at the same time make it heavy as fuck!

3. According to you, do bands who play extreme metal receive the deserved appreciation, like bands of other sub-genres?

Purgation : Not until you play cheesy death metal but then that is not death metal. It is high time people quit the adulterated form of metal and invest more time on the purest forms like Death metal and of course thrash metal. Metal which is supposedly not extreme is anything but metal.

4. Please tell us about your EP “Exterminated Malfeasance“?

Purgation : Well, basically this EP was planned in 2012 and we executed our plan successfully by the end of 2013. It was released in early December 2013. It comprises of 5 originals and an intro track. The concept is clearly portrayed by the artwork itself. It speaks everything against the system.

5. Please tell us about your influences. Has the band been musically influenced by any other genre of music?

Purgation : We are highly influenced by works of Old Suffocation, old Cannibal corpse, Immolation, old Cryptopsy, Autopsy and the list will go on.

6. Purgation Inc. has played alongside a lot of bands, both national and international. Please share with us your memorable experiences.

Purgation : Well, as you have mentioned Purgation INC I hope that you understand the reason why we kept it that way. But still want to elaborate it to the readers, our music talks about the false system and corporations are just a part of it, the Inc is just a middle finger to them. Anyway let’s get down to the question, we were really honored to share the same stage with some of the killer international acts such as Orator, Wormrot, Morbidity, Savage Deity, Kathgor, Nafarmaan, Nuclear Winter, Warhound and many more. The experiences have helped us grow as a band. We have learnt a lot from these big acts and we always try to match up with their level of professionalism as long as music is concerned.

7. What kind of themes are your lyrics generally wedged to?

Purgation : Against the system, morbidity and occultism.

8. What bands introduced you musically to the sub-genre of death metal? Tell us about our favorite death metal bands?

Purgation : The list is too big. We have no particular favorites. We get hooked to any band that we find is staying true to their sound no matter what the crowd demands.

9. How do you agree or disagree with the way metal is evolving?

Purgation : We were already talking about evolution lately. Talking about India I must say that organizations like KOSMA, Putrid Ascendancy and of course people/friends from Bangalore are really giving their everything for metal.

10. You are signed under Slaughterhouse Records. Tell us about the experience with the record label. Would your childhood self have had imagined such an accomplishment?

Purgation : JR Torina brother has been really supportive right from the very first day. It is because of him everything has been made possible. He has been relentless with his support. Slaughterhouse records is the right kind of breakthrough that any extreme metal band needs to keep their ambitions alive. A big Thumbs up to Slaughterhouse records. It is definitely a dream come true. Even Sevared records have kept it in their store which is quite an achievement altogether.

11. You have a quote on your Facebook page which says, “Support true death metal.” Could you elaborate?

Purgation : Metal is not another form of entertainment, it is a protest against the society and system, there are many legendary bands from USA but consumer based economic structure has really turned it into just some other commercial product. Europe is a very good example where metal is treated and metal and supported by people who don’t give a fuck to the society. Our message is very simple, do not misuse metal in the name of death metal. Autopsy is Death metal and Suicide silence is not. It is high time people understand the roots of metal.

12. What do you think of KOSMA and its initiatives? What could the fans be looking forward to from you at Forged in Fire?

Purgation : KOSMA has been brilliant right from the start. The best part of KOSMA is that they rightly justify the quote “HERE PASSION RULES”. These guys are really passionate about what they are doing. They know their music and they are contributing a lot to uplift the extreme metal scene in Kolkata. These people have the passion and will to shift metal capital status from Bangalore to Kolkata.

13. Do you have any message for the fans reading this?

Purgation : Fuck the false!!!
Hoping to see you guys at the Mayhem on May 3rd.

 

Listen/Buy Purgation EP “Exterminated Malfeasance”, here!

You can RSVP to the event “Forged In Fire II”, here!

Read our ‘Forged In Fire II’ preview, here!

-Interviewed by Kailas Joshi

INTERVIEW with Orion

 

This band’s giant journey towards greatness has stretched across a span of four years. With rises, falls, conflicts, losses, redemption and other rock and roll documentary occurrences, Orion has forged itself to become the creature it is today. The sound that Orion is known for has always been a mystery to the band itself because every fan and enthusiast find a new way to express what they hear. We had a chat with them where they talked about their music, interests and the upcoming Transcending Obscurity Fest. Read our conversation below-

1. Progressive metal is known as music with very little or zero predictability. Orion’s music arrests the listener’s attention with uncustomary details like interesting time signatures, changing tempos and sometimes even clean vocals. How bold are such attempts of incorporating unusual aspects?

Orion: The purpose of our music is to flirt around with whatever possibility there is. For us there is nothing too extreme or out of place. If it feels right it fits.

2. What distinguishes an Orion song from other death metal music? How do you conceive a song- does your songwriting lace around the crux of a concept or narrative or is it solely musical with the best suited structure?

Orion: The lack of predictable structure definitely helps us stand out from other death metal music. Usually we have a loose theme in mind that we channelize to create riffs. They are brutal or soulful depending on what the concept is and how many beers we’ve had before getting to it. Post that comes the lyrics.

3. I came across an interesting quote on the band’s Facebook page- “The sound that Orion is known for has always been a mystery to the band itself because every fan and enthusiast finds a new way to express what they hear”. A genre like death metal is often expected to deliver conventional compositions in order to inspire a thought process typical to such a genre. Does an Orion song seek to trigger an emotion by itself or is it up to the interpretation of the listener alone?

Orion: People don’t want to be told what to think. Everything from the riffs, solos and even lyrics are kept open to interpretation so that the listener feels more involved. There’s something nice about figuring out what the person beside you hadn’t.

4. Orion’s sound which is endowed with a good deal of technicality seems to be drawing inspiration from a plethora of sources, steering clear from monotony– sometimes even reminiscent of a surprising edge like that of jazz! Please tell us about the band’s musical influences.

Orion: The band has gone through a rollercoaster of influencers. Each new band member brought with him a bag full of artists he loved and that became a part of Orion. With the current lineup we feel a strong connection to bands like Death, Opeth, Necrophagist and recently even Veil of Maya. Though all these bands have their own sound they always find a way to make you go “Fucck, I can’t believe they did that.” That’s where we hope to be….

5. What got you into death metal as fans first and as musicians later? Has the band been influenced by non-musical sources like art, literature, ideologies etc.

Orion: All of us have been metal fans for as long as we can remember. If we knew why then we’d be preaching that already. Most of our album concepts revolve around existential issues and conflicting theories in mythology etc. While the music is inspired by other legends the lyrics and album concepts always have a humanitarian root.

6. The embellishments that the band’s music incorporates (intricate melodies, grooves with odd time signatures, etc.) suggest a good deal of exploration and non-adherence to hard-and-fast rules. Have such features about the band’s music ever been compared to ‘standards’ of death metal and judged as ‘correct’ or ‘incorrect’? What are your thoughts?

Orion: We don’t think there’s a right and wrong in music in general, not just metal. We love pushing our music and exploring more ways of playing it. That’s probably why it takes us forever to finish a new track. But it all pays off in the end.

7. The name ‘Orion’ is that of a celestial huntsman from the Greek mythology; also, the artwork on your EP On The Banks of Rubicon is quite unconventional. These features reflect the importance the band attaches to aesthetics. Do you believe that aesthetics are necessary to convey the ideology that a genre of music seeks to uphold? If not, can music stand alone as an absolutely independent conception?

Orion: The artwork is packaging of the music. That is the first impression a fan gets of your band. So it NEEDS to kick ass. The On “The Banks of Rubicon” cover took just as long as any of the songs on the EP.

8. Orion has stood strong for almost five years now. Of the past ten years of metal in India, what according to you are the major standouts? Also tell us if you’re influenced by any music from other genres in the present-day scenario.

Orion: Unlike five years back when there were only a few pro level bands and everyone else played in the semi pro league, lots of bands have started coming up now. BM, DR and Scribe are always going to be on the top. But now is the time for powerhouses like Albatross, Reptilian Death, Providence, Gutslit and loads of others.

9. Do you think metal in India is at all a culture that embraces an ideology and questions the stereotypical standards set out by the society? Or does it focus solely on the music, even seeking commercialization at times?

Orion: It hasn’t reached that point where it’s strong enough to question society. But it will get there one day. Right now metal in India is like new formed religion. No restrictions, no requirements, no agenda. Just pure love for the music. It might not help kids tackle life issues but it sure lets them escape it for as long as they’re in the mosh pit.

10. One of the most prevalent aspects of metal is the existence of a community or a ‘scene‘. Do you think such ‘scenes’ revolve around a set of expectations which deters a band’s growth due to little or no space for exploration? Or does it enhance music as a whole by congregating listeners and musicians who can appreciate a similar kind of music?

Orion: The scenes here aren’t about pushing one kind of metal. They purely focus on uplifting bands from that area by doing promotions, holding whatever shows they can; big or small and basically building fans. And God knows how much we need that right now.

11. Share with us memories from your journey as Orion. What do you think about the metal scene in Mumbai, in terms of gigs, organizers, exposure, contemporaries and listeners?

Orion: Like us the metal scene is forever growing here. Everyone has to do things like float themselves. We’ve had our share like featuring in Aashiqui 2, which definitely was the most fun nonmetal we ever did as a band.

12.  How has Transcending Obscurity India turned things around for Orion? Tell us about the experience of working with an unparalleled record label in the country.

Orion: First things first, it was a very big deal for us to be signed. It took a major chunk of the stress of our shoulders. The first EP was all us. From the recording, artwork, printing, distribution, we did it all ourselves. We’re relieved that now all we need to focus on is making more and better music. Kunal is one influential person. There’s a certain level of confidence that comes with being associated with a name like TOI.

13. Orion is a part of the brilliant line-up of the Transcending Obscurity fest. How do you feel about it? What should fans be looking forward to?

Orion: We’re really excited. The fans can definitely look forward to some new material that we’ve been working on.

14. What do you do outside Orion? Is there any passion that you pursue other than metal?

Orion: Luckily we’ve all managed to get jobs that help us stay close to what we do in Orion. I’m a copywriter, Vignesh is a brand manager with Furtados, Pritesh is slowly becoming one of the most sought out live sound engineers in the country and Ashwin kicks some serious butt as a studio mastermind.

15. Do you have any message for fans reading this?

Orion: Bring a pair extra balls to the TOI fest.

IMS: Thank you for talking to us. See you at the pit!

 

RSVP to Transcending Obscurity fest, here!

-Interviewed by Debarati Das

 

NEWS: Mortar to tour North East this May

Kolkata-based old school thrash metal band Mortar is gearing up for an eventful month ahead! The band has raged with a good deal of no-bullshit thrash assault ever since its inception and is all set to play the first crowd-funded gig in Kolkata, following which they will be touring two cities in the North-East.

On May 3, Mortar will be playing Forged In fire II in Kolkata alongside other superlative bands from the city and the North East. Forged In Fire II is a wonderful initiative by Kolkata Old School Metal Association and is the first of its kind being organized out of funds voluntarily contributed by metalheads.

Besides Mortar, the line-up features Necrodeity, Purgation Inc., Deadbolt, Wicked Child and Das Hubris.

You can RSVP to the event “Forged In fire II in Kolkata”, here!

 

Right after, on May 8, Mortar will be playing Metal Mayhem VI hosted by Rocka Rolla Events in Guwahati alongside other thrash and death metal bands from the East.

The line-up for Metal Mayhem also includes Plague Throat, Agnostic, Sycorax, Cynical Project and Psybarite.

You can RSVP to the event “MetalMayhem VI“, here!

 

Following this, the band will play Callous Amass in the famous Polo Grounds in Shillong on May 10. Callous Amass aims at enhancing the metal scene in the North East and also features a brilliant line-up of thrash and death metal bands- Meth, Rival Storm, Sycorax, Undead, Agnostic, Raped Jihad and Plague Throat.

You can RSVP to the event “Callous Amass“, here!

INTERVIEW with Wicked Child

Wicked Child are an old-school thrash metal band formed in 2011. The band’s sound, unique in its own way, incorporates elements of crossover thrash. Wicked Child seems to be a promising band with raw power which reflects in their originals. Forged in Fire is going to be the band’s first outstation gig.

1. Greetings from IMS. How have you guys been?

WC : DRUNK but sharp. LOL! Anyway, jokes aside, we’ve been awesome, bored and restless because of this humidity. What with this heat and all, phew! Expecting more heat in Kolkata during our visit there. (Holy Shit!) At the moment we are just focused on Forged In Fire II.

2. Wicked Child is purely an underground band. Have you guys had any major breakthroughs since your formation in 2011?

WC : You’re right about that. Underground is the way to be. Metal has always been an underground genre. No one can change that. And we like it that way. Just imagine a situation where everyone in this world knew Metal, wouldn’t it be monotonous?! Metal will always be a genre for “the Few and the Proud”. Anyways breakthroughs as such had never stumbled upon us not before our demos hit the virtual streets. So before KOSMA nothing major has happened.

3. Your music and ideology primarily focus on the “80’s thrash scene.” Is your sound also influenced by the major bands of that era? Or does it incorporate modern metal too?

WC : That is basically what we started out to achieve and still strive to do so because there can’t be another 80’s thrash era and our focus on it is basically a tribute to it. Judging by the responses we have gotten so far it seems we have definitely struck a chord with our fellow thrashers out there and here as well. Definitely, the thrash titans are a major influence, without them we would’nt be playing this ‘exhilarating, relentless’ type of music. Thrash has always been a constant, the moment we first heard thrash we were sewn into it. Besides THRASH we are also heavily influenced by the NWOBHM. Cheers to the legends!!!!! Regarding your last question, the whole band is unanimous there is no modern metal influence in our music, we are old school genetically. LOL. But if by modern metal you also mean the New Wave Of Thrash Metal (Havok, Evile, Municipal Waste, etc.) then yes, we are influenced by the new wave thrash bands as well.

4. Have you guys played any out station gigs so far? If yes, how was the experience different from that in your hometown?

WC : No, KOSMA’s FORGED IN FIRE II would be our first and damn glad to be a part of it.

 

5. Your song “Beer Queer” has attracted considerable attention. What is the idea behind the song?

WC : Aha! BEER QUEER! What can we say! We ourselves didn’t expect this song would draw so much attention as it has. Believe it or not we got the idea for the song from a sitcom (Is that believable, LOL). The song is a dig at people (especially males) who tend to become touchy and emotional after a fucking drinking session. Ain’t that fucked-up?!Lol.

6. What are your thoughts on the current metal scene in India?

WC : As it stands today, there has really been a tremendous change regarding Metal in India. People (Headbangers, in particular) are becoming more receptive of the originals dished out by bands rather than just covers. That is a good sign. Promotion of our own backyard talent is the way to go and that is a great thing for future generation of musicians to come. It has broken the barrier of initiation and reached a level of independence. Independence of free musical expression and that is what Metal is, free expression of everything that plagues (or not) mankind.

7. Tell us about the metal scenario in the north-east in terms of exposure for metal bands, response from listeners ,etc?

WC : The Metal Scene in Northeast has been quite growing in the last few years. There are quite a number of bands that have come up recently and in the past five years. There are a number of Death Metal Acts, Modern Metal Acts, Progressive Metal Acts, Power Metal Acts etc… The only problem in this part of the world is lack of funds and sponsorships. Even in Shillong there has been lesser gigs compared to a few years back. Although the crowd response is satisfactory, but due to the lack of funds fans are not able to enjoy Metal music in its entirety. A few bands from Shillong has been able to break out and come up with EPs. In terms of originality, there has been a surge of bands coming up with their own originals which is a welcome sign by many fans.

On the whole, the metal scenario is growing stronger day by day, but the only problem is lack of gigs for bands to showcase their music. Fans here, especially Shillong are united when it comes to Metal and we hope there is going to be some changes in the years to come. There are a few major gigs that are lined up to take place in Shillong in the next few months. Hopefully this is the change everyone is waiting for.

8. What other interest(s) do you guys have?

WC : Thrash, Beer Drinking, Thrash some more, Poser Bashing, Rum party, Moshing, Crazy Ass Stupid activities.

9. Is Wicked Child associated with any label/sponsors as of now?

WC : Nope.

10. “Forged in Fire II” has an amazing line up. You guys are obviously excited to be a part of it. Are you expecting something special out of this gig?

WC : Hell Yeah!!! We’re excited. Firstly, because its our first outstation gig. Secondly, through this gig we’ll be able to interact with an expanded populace of HEADBANGERS. Thirdly, meeting bands with a commonality for METAL. Cheers to them all! The only thing special we expect out of this gig is people going ape-shit crazy and having a great blast. Metal is not about being serious, its about opening up and being “Stronger Than All”, taking all negativity, turning it into pulp and smashing it back at the fucking naysayers.

11. Do you have any word for fans reading this?

WC : Cheers to all our friends who have been showing us so much appreciation. You guys are kickass. Can’t wait to be there. Looking forward to moshing and laying ourselves to waste there with all you guys. Hoping for a memorable crazy night. Until we see you, keep on THRASHING, keep on BASHING posers and remember –
“We don’t stop thrashing nor moshing nor drinking unless we are sleeping”. HAHAHA.
Stay Wicked. Stay Thrash. CHEEEERRSS!!!!!

IMS : Thanks for talking to us. See you in the pit!

 

Listen to ‘Wicked Child’ songs, here!

To get all ‘Wicked Child’ updates, click here!

You can RSVP to the event, here!

Read our ‘FORGED IN FIRE II’ preview, here!

-Interviewed by Aditya Bali

 

UPCOMING GIG: Forged In Fire II

 

                                                       FORGED IN FIRE II

 

On the 3^rd of May, Kolkata will witness its first ever crowd-funded gig, “Forged in Fire II” organized by Kolkata Old School Metal Association (KOSMA). The line-up of six bands consists of both seasoned and newly formed bands from the city and the north-east.

 

                                                                                -THE BANDS-

 

NECRODEITY (Death Metal, Kolkata)

Necrodeity, formed in 2012 is a death metal band hailing from Kolkata. Necrodeity’s music embraces the theological antagonistic axioms of the deus absconditus or the creator who resigned. Necrodeity has played at prestigious events like Trendslaughter Fest and the Ritual Ascension Fest. Necrodeity’s artillery has a demo to be released very soon and an international compilation featuring Mantak, Belligerent Intent, Orator, Nafarmaan and other bands.

 

 

MORTAR (Old School Thrash Metal, Kolkata)

Mortar, formed in 2011, is often identified as the ‘first of its kind’. Mortar has remained true to old school thrash metal and draws influence from the likes of Slayer, early Metallica, early Sepultura, Kreator, Sodom and Megadeth. Mortar’s sound means absolute assault, and the band’s debut EP, ‘Ground Zero’ puts forth unmatched aggression with well-accomplished bold vocal tasks, fierce progressions and dexterous drumming. Mortar definitely has a slew of promising material in store and you sure should have the circle pits ready for them!

 

Discography-

Ground Zero; EP; 2013

Motorhead India Tribute by Various Artists; Compilation; 2013

Beer-O-Calypse; Single; 2014

Currently working on a compilation details of which are soon to be announced.

 

 

PURGATION INC. (Death Metal, Kolkata)

Purgation a.k.a Purgation Inc. formed in 2010 is one of the masterly death metal bands in the country. The band is signed under extreme metal record label Slaughter House Records based in USA and released their debut EP Exterminated Malfeasance in 2013 which received wide critical adulation. Purgation presented their ‘aggressive musicality’ at illustrious events like the Undergrind Fest, ’12 where they supported Wormrot from Singapore and at Death Skull Ritual 2 and Banish the Posers Fest in Bangladesh alongside other accomplished bands.

 

Discography-

Exterminated Malfeasance; EP; 2013

 

DEADBOLT (Thrash/ Death, Kolkata) 

Deadbolt, formed in 2013 is a four-piece thrash/death band which embraces the splendour of the old school. Deadbolt’s undeniable aggression and musicality have established them as one of the best live acts in Kolkata. The band recently played Thrashfest in Thane. Inspired by bands like Slayer, Kreator, Sodom, Morbid Angel and Death, Deadbolt delivers ‘in-your-face’ thrash/ death attack!

 

Discography-

City of Rot; Single; 2013

 

DAS HUBRIS (Hard Rock, Hooghly)

Das Hubris formed only in 2013, is a comparatively new band that plays hard rock drawing inspiration from the likes of Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Cream, Deep Purple and Guns ‘N’ Roses. The band have proved their good musical acumen through some memorable live performances in the city and two singles.

Discography-

Running from the Law; Single; 2013

Tipsy Evening Blues; Single; 2013

 

WICKED CHILD (Old-School Thrash Metal, Shillong)

Wicked Child are an old-school thrash metal band formed in 2011. The band’s sound, unique in its own way, incorporates elements of crossover thrash. Wicked Child seems to be a promising band with raw power which reflects in their originals. Forged in Fire is going to be the band’s first outstation gig.

 

Discography-

Beer Queer; Demo; 2013

Vomit Holocaust; Demo; 2013

Thrash Metal; Demo; 2013

 

                                                                             -THE ORGANIZERS-

 

KOLKATA OLD SCHOOL METAL ASSOCIATION (KOSMA)is an initiative that seeks to enhance the heavy metal scenario in the city and has already hosted a two successful open air gigs, Metal on Metal Open Air and Hard N Heavy Open Air besides the first chapter of Forged in Fire.

To join KOSMA group, click here!

 

                                                                                     -THE VENUE-

 

JOGESH MIME ACADEMY

95, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd

Anami Sangha

Kalighat

Kolkata

West Bengal 700026

You can RSVP to the event, here!

-Preview by Debarati Das

 

NEWS: Dark Helm released “Cairo, Settlement IX”

Dark Helm, a Deathcore act from Pune, India will be releasing their upcoming album, which is  currently in recording state.

They commented, “”Cairo, Settlement IX” is one of the tracks from our upcoming album, and this is the first piece of Dark Helm music we’re releasing since our debut album “Persepolis“. We’re working on our second full length at the moment.”

Guitarist Clinton Moniz says, “When I started to write this song, my main goal was bitchin. Mission accomplished”

Guitarist Neeraj Vaidya said, “The new album is gonna be sick. All you guys will be searching for your jaws and I don’t mean the fish.”

The bassist Shubhrayu De said, “This song is about a close friend of mine who got discarded from his family, for being a Unicorn.”

 

You can listen to the track “Cairo, Settlement IX” below :

To get all updates of Dark Helm, click here!