Phantasmal Interview

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?

Psychopomp: Phantasmal started in 2012 when Wraith (a long time comrade of mine) approached me proposing that we do a band that would combine our individual views on black / thrash / speed / heavy metal. Here we are in 2015 and we have our debut demo released and a lot of material waiting to be unleashed!


2.Recently you have released an ep, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?

P: Aggressive, melodic, powerful. Black / thrash would be the best term to use, but the songs on "The Reaper's Forge" have a broad appeal, I think.


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

P: Life and death, light and dark.


4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Phantasmal"?

P: There were a few names on our list when we were brainstorming band names, but Phantasmal stood out at me as being very representative of our morbid and aggressive style of metal. AND it had not already been claimed by another band (to my knowledge).


5.Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you planning on expanding the line up in the future or do you chose to remain a duo?

P: Phantasmal will remain comprised of Wraith and I unless we are offered any worthwhile live gigs, at which time we will recruit a live lineup.


6.On both the metal archives and facebook page it said the band is from the United States but does not say which part, was that intentional?

P: That is intentional as Wraith and I do not live near each other. When working on material, we bounce demos back and forth to each other digitally, until the time comes to convene and record.


7.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

P: We currently have no record deal and are definitely always on the lookout for an interested label. We have plenty of finished or near-finished material in our vaults, so any interested labels should feel free to contact us.


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

P: Well, the demo has only been out for about two months, but what feedback we have received thus far has been extremely positive. There has been a great reaction from both fans and media.


9.When can we expect a full length album and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

P: We have lots of material ready, and if any labels found themselves so inclined to put out a full length for us, we could have it done for them in less than a year's time. But as I said, we have enough material ready currently for a 7" or EP if any interested parties happen to be reading. As for the musical direction of the band, I see it remaining just as it is now. We know exactly what we want to do and are doing it.


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

P: I dislike rattling off lists of band names, but occasionally it must be done: Phantasmal both takes great inspiration from and is for fans of bands like Sodom, Bathory, Metallica, Witchery, Mercyful Fate, Bewitched, Aura Noir, Destruction, Destroyer 666 and lots more. With that said, I have also described a lot of what I listen to frequently. Also, the new Nifelheim MLP is great.


11.Does Occultism play any role in your music?

P: Much like most metal bands: no, not on any more than a superficial level.


12.What are some of your non musical interests?

P: Art, books, films, animals, travel...the usual stuff.


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

P: Thank you very much for the interview opportunity. Your interest in Phantasmal is greatly appreciated. Any labels that wish to work with us should feel free to write us at phantasmalmetal@gmail.com, and any fans that are reading should keep an ear out in the coming year for plenty of new music from us. Cheers!