1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band so far in 2014?
Joseph Merino: (Guitar, vocals) We have been booking shows, and working on new material for our live set. We have some considerable performances coming up this year near fall, but we cannot discuss the details until it has officially been announced by the entities putting this event together. It is a possibility that we may have a video some point this year as well.
2.In 2013 you had released and EP, can you tell us a little bit more about your musical sound?
JM: It is more interesting how others perceive our sound. I believe that it would offer a better description than I can contribute at this moment.
3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
JM: The work of this band is dedicated to the destruction of illusions, and boundaries. Be it physical, spiritual, and or mental. Whatever form it may take, we oppose. We strive for union with truth, and true divinity. Not that of which societies have sculpted to enslave consciousness.
We pay tribute to those who walk obscure paths, be they outlaws, outcast of society, accusers, rebels, liberators, those who walk with the unseen flame of illumination. They are our brothers, and sisters. Our work is dedicated to such things, and more.
4.3/4 of the band members were in Skrew, what was the decision behind leaving that band and forming your own?
JM: Actually 2/4 of were in Skrew, as one of our members opt’ed out this past March. I was working in Skrew for a little over a year and a half, David Baxter (drums, percussions) was in for much longer, and William Ables (ex-Skrew / Ex- Škan) was in for even longer than that.
I cannot speak completely on behalf of the rest of the members, but it is safe to say that we had certain commitments in the band that were fulfilled. When those commitments were completed we felt it was time to move on. Personally, Skrew was heading in a different direction than I was being pulled, and I have to follow my instinct, and spirit. I wish Skrew the best in it’s endeavors.
5.I have read that the band has yet to play live, has that changed yet and also are there any plans for a live show in the future?
JM: Yes, that has changed. We have performed, and we have future dates confirmed. All is moving forward according to our will.
6.On the EP you had Jason Frankhouser of, “Course of Ruin” do a couple of guitar leads, where you satisfied with what he contributed to the recording?
JM: Absolutely. Jason is a phenomenal guitarist, composer, and engineer. His lead work on “The Old King” EP is beyond satisfactory. It is an honor to receive his generous contribution to our offering for the masses.
7.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or are open to working with one in the future?
JM: Honestly we have not considered a label. We are open to working with one, but on our own terms. If there is a label that will make us an honest offering, as well as supporting our vision, we would definitely consider forging an alliance.
8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of extreme metal?
JM: The feedback has been very positive. We have received support from individuals all over the world. People understand what we are doing, and coming out to assist us. It is good, as we are moving as our vision drive us to do. We are looking forward to performing abroad.
9.When can we expect a full length album and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
JM: It is difficult to say in this moment. We have another EP that we are going to produce in the not distant future. Anything is possible, but it would take a considerable amount of down time to produce a full length. There is enough material to do it, be we are more focused on live aspects at this time. As far as where we are heading in the future musically, we all have to wait to see.
10.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have influenced the music of Škan, and also what are you listening to nowadays.
JM: All of the members of Škan listen to a large array of music. That which influences the writing process comes from direct experiences in life. This is the true inspiration to what is being worked with in our space.
As far as what bands we are listening to these days, we respect, and admire bands that have conviction and essence within their work. So far and few between does one observe bands within the metal scene that posses such characteristics. Music is a very old, and spiritual thing. It can be powerful when there is intention driving it. Music is a magical thing.
11.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
JM: Thank you for your interest us. It is much appreciated. We invite all to join us. Let us raise hell as one, and make the enslavers tremble in our wake. Come walk among us.
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