1. Can you tell us a little bit about the band for those that have never heard of you before?
Well, I would hardly call BERKOWITZ a band. It is merely a studio project that came into being when I was writing music for a black metal band that split just months after its launch in 2008. I was without a band and with a lot of song ideas and so, you know, one thing led to another.
2. How would you describe your musical sound?
According to the label the music on "Sent To Dominate" is a mixture of death metal, black metal and grindcore. But the first album sounded mostly like black metal and a third album might be something different again. I would describe BERKOWITZ as being extreme music without giving a shit about genre categories.
3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
On "Sent To Dominate" the lyrics mostly deal with political and social problems - stuff like collateral damage in war, the Berlin wall, the Arab spring and so on. On the other hand, there are songs which are very personal and show my individual point of view. The most recurring message is: "Never let people put you down".
4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?
The idea was to find a name that doesn't determine the style of music. Names like "dark + noun" are getting old. I liked having a family name and so I looked for one that could be connected with as different people as possible. Look it up, you'll see what I mean.
5. Currently the band is solo, are you planning on adding a line up in the future or do you choose to remain solo?
Right now I am busy with a full-line-up band and my job. There is nothing planned, but you should never say never. But it seems very possible to share the songwriting process in the future. We'll see.
6. Currently you are signed to Gravity Entertainment, how did you get in contact with this label and how would you describe the support that they have given you so far.
I accidentally met one of the Gravity dudes in Berlin when I was looking for a label to publish "Sent To Dominate". I didn't know that the guy was working for a record label but somehow we talked about it. Their marketing was surprisingly professional so I would say I am satisfied.
7. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of extreme metal.
So far, reactions by listeners and reviewers have been positive.
8. What is going on with the other musical projects these days?
Haha, I really don't know how to respond to that. But in case you mean my other involvements: I am playing drums in a grindcore/crust band which is very fun. Much more spontaneous than the longer BERKOWITZ compositions.
9. What direction do you see your music heading into on future releases?
I actually have enough material for one more album in a similar style. But for some reason I don't want to record it as being the third BERKOWITZ LP. I think it is boring to record the same album again and again so the next one is going to be a lot different.
10. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
I think every band you like has influence on your output. Important bands for "Sent To Dominate" were ROTTEN SOUND, NASUM and NAPALM DEATH. The last CD I bought was DYING FETUS' "Reign Supreme" but the record I was listening to the most during the last time is DUNDERBEISTs "Black Arts & Crooked Tails".
11. Outside of music what are some of your interests?
I like to draw and illustrate - that's my job. The BERKOWITZ logo and both cover artworks have been created by me. Check out facebook.com/thisisillustrious for more information!
12. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?
Yes, thank you for your time and for your interest!
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