1.Can you give us an update on what is going on with the solo project these days?
Sure. As of right now, it's all about promoting the album, Ascension, which you have kindly reviewed. Also to set the stage for its CD release via Narcoleptica Productions.
2.You have a new album coming out in August, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
In the simplest of terms, it's the true first album for this project in terms of its central vision and aims. The previous effort, I was never satisfied with and have grown to reject.
3.You have been working with this musical project since 2003 but so far have only put out 2 albums, can you tell us a little bit more about the long wait in between releases?
Given the time span, this is a long story, but it's also a very uneventful one. Essentially, I created a lot of music during this time that never saw the light of day, so to speak. Intentionally so, because it wasn't up to the standard I required. In 2014, I released Beyond Blood & Ashes, which I was also also not satisfied with as a concept because it lacked focus and direction, but made the mistake of releasing it anyway. That aside, I already had another thirty tracks, which I don't ever see myself releasing, but only keep for personal reference and future ideas. So, if I hadn't made the error in judgement that I did in 2014, Ascension would be my first album despite this project being around for almost twenty years.
4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you have explored on both of the releases and also how would you describe your progress as a songwriter over the years?
In general, it's the standard Black Metal aesthetic and thematic; Luciferian concepts driven by dark wording and references to occultist notions, but even beyond that, there are secondary layers of meaning and allegories, some very personal. On the latter point, I prefer that individuals draw their own meaning from the music.
5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the album cover?
It's artwork that truly speaks for itself. It's centred around Luciferian and Gnostic themes and done so by Swedish artist and Extreme Metal enthusiast, Dalila Belazi, who has also done some great art work for other Black and Death Metal bands, including Profane Burial. I'm extremely honoured to have her support and her work as the album cover.
6.With this project you record everything by yourself, do you have any experience working with other bands or musicians?
I have worked with other session musicians and done work for others in a similar capacity. Even though I compose almost everything myself, I prefer the session experience because it can help add to the studio atmosphere.
7.The new album is going to be released on 'Narcoleptica Productions', how did you get in contact with this label?
With this album, it was only about getting the work done and a digital copy released. I didn't plan any promotion or consultation with any labels for a potential CD release. As such, I was very grateful when Andrey Koslov from Narcoleptica Productions, who happened upon the album, offered to do a physical CD release. The credit goes to him for that initiative.
8.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black and doom metal?
I still think that it's a bit early to tell, but so far, I have received great response from those who've bought the music and supported it further. There have even been some solid reviews from your publication as well as the Metal Crypt, and also some prominent mentions on social media from groups like Doom Hearts, Midlands Metal Mayhem and Stahlradio Webradio, just to name a few. I'm honoured.
9.Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?
To remain focussed and keep creating.
10.What are you listening to nowadays?
I'm always listening to a lot of music, but the key ones in rotation these days – among many others – tend to be the works Necrophobic, From The Vastland, Cloak, Solitary, From The Void, Mgla, Haimad, Amygdolor, Dev Gohil, Ends Emrbace, Under The Pledge Of Secrecy, Watain, Morbid Angel, Triptykon, Kampfar and Grá.
11.How would you describe your views on Occultism?
It's a domain that goes well beyond the inversion and subversion of conventional religious, spiritual and political order as well as their symbolic influence. It also serves as a fitting allegory for broader curiosities that belie individual existence. It speaks to a distinct darkness within the depths of untethered thought.
12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
My thanks to you for the excellent review, the support and this opportunity. If your readers are into dark, atmospheric and heavy music, they should give Ascension a listen. All links have been provided below.
Kade Storm – Band Camp: https://kadestorm.bandcamp.com/
Kade Storm – Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kadestormmusic
Narcoleptica Productions – Band Camp: https://narcolepticaprod.bandcamp.com/album/ascension
