Following the release of their excellent album Sovran, we caught up with one of the band’s vocalists, Anders, for a chat about the new album and much more. See what happened below!
You recently released your new album Sovran. What has the reception been like for it so far?
It’s has been very, very good. I was slightly nervous about how it was gonna be received. A new vocalist can be touchy among fans, and I know that as a music lover myself. But I don’t read all reviews anymore. This album has been a struggle to finalize, but when I read all the praise and how people love the album, it makes my day.
How did you approach the writing and recording process? Did you do anything different compared to your previous albums?
Not really, apart from the lengthy process of getting everything together. Much wait and too much time can lead to overthinking the songs and the lyrics, instead of going with the flow. The flow, however, went in slow-motion and there was much work to get the album and the band together. This is the new start for us, our come-back, if you will.
Were there any songs that were more of a struggle to get right than others?
Personally I struggled with my voice, since we had not rehearsed in a long time. For me getting back in trim is very psychological, rather than psysical, so at times I struggle to find the flow of energy. Dusk Mariner was very hard for me. The lyrics means the world to me, but it’s difficult for me listening to that song. I will make up for it live 😉
Which song are you personally most proud of?
Oh, I think The Marriage of Attaris, which is a bit back to the 90’s romantic doom/gothic metal. It’s a powerful and very despondent in its melancholy. I also have a special place in my heart for No Lonelier Star. The lyrics deals with personal transitional phases while looking up at the clear night sky, realizing our origin.
One of my favorite tracks on the album is Dishearten. What can you tell me about that one?
It’s a big fan-favorite and the one more “modern”, if you will, song on the album. I get some Katatonia vibes as well as Anathema mid 90’s. I love it for its own identity, and a much needed song on the album. Heike has helped out with lyrics on some songs, but Dishearten she wrote herself. I woke up one day and Heike had written a poem/lyric. I just tried it out for the song and it resonated almost perfectly.
If there was going to be a movie released about Draconian, what actor would you want to play yourself?
Haha, now I feel lost. That’s a hard question. I have seen some actors that resembles me, but I have no idea who they are. I was asking me my fiancee she is struggling too. Guess I’m one of a kind. My look and weird personality. I’ll leave the question open for further research 😛
If Draconian could put its name to a product, what would it be and why?
A really good, smooth and rich Zinfandel or Pinot Noir wine would be cool. I know it’s a bit of a trend now, but this would fit Draconian. An absinth would be really cool too..
If you could play anywhere in the world, on any lineup, what would you choose?
Hellfest with a Symphony Orchestra, or something. Playing songs like Death Come Near Me, She Dies, A Scenery of Loss, The Dying, The Marriage of Attaris, Pale Tortured Blue… that vice 🙂
And finally what’s in store for Draconian for 2016?
Tours and many gigs are being booked. 2016 will be a turn-around for Draconian. As well as for me personally. 2015 has been such a struggle.
You can read our review of Sovran here.
