1.Can you give us an update on what is going on with the band these days?
We have just gotten a new Bass player, Pavol Rossa, who is an excellent addition to the band. Aside from that, our 2nd EP is in it's mixing stages and should be released within the coming months. It consists of two songs that we had written during the recording of our first EP, The Soothsayer. When the new EP is ready, we'll be playing more live shows again. We have been hard at work writing new material lately and are feeling good about how it is sounding so far.
2.So far you have released an ep, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?
Dark, heavy, tormented.The feeling is there and that feeling is horrifying.
3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
The lyrics can be quite introspective and abstract. They are mostly explorations of disfigured psyche, desperate in it's attempt to strive forward with the use of passionate motifs, pure in their actions, if not a little damaged by misuse of occult remedies. The core idea is coming from a place that is very human in it's feeling but is presenting itself through a surreal and nightmarish mindscape that goes beyond the realms of pain and confusion. Amongst the torment and trauma are faint shards of shimmering hope that are to be collected along the way, so one can aspire to build something new and secure. Something that can benefit one's fellow man as well as his own desire.
4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Soothsayer'?
The name Soothsayer was there from day one. Con (Doyle, guitar) had the name and it just resonated with us.. As a mystic druid who saw the future within blood and entrails would!
5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
The stage show is special and is something that thus far, we haven't been able to capture on a recording. We tend to create an atmosphere with what we are doing. It becomes a kind of spiritual thing for certain members of the band as they slip into their trance like states. Some notable shows have been played in Cork, Dublin and Galway, alongside bands such as Solstafir, Alcest and From The Bogs Of Aughiska.
6.Do you have any touring or show plans for the future?
We would like to break out of our Emerald Isle at some stage in the near future.I think our neighbouring United Kingdom is likely to be the first target. After that, we'll go wherever we can afford to go.
7.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
We have received label interest but it wasn't for us. We would be very happy to work with a label whose philosophies aligned with our own. That will come in time.
8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of black and doom metal?
We are actually quite overwhelmed with the response so far. It has been extremely positive. We just need to keep on working on pushing the music out there. We seem to be able to appeal to the Doom fans, the Black fans and many in between, which puts us in an interesting position. We've always done this for ourselves, cut off from the notion of a style or scene, so it is very humbling to know that our creation is connecting with people in some kind of way.
9.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
Well, here's where things get exciting for us. We are currently writing for the album and already things have gone in a new direction. It's still heavy, Doom-laden in parts and ferocious in other parts... there are just a lot more dynamics now. There is a sense that the music has "stepped through to the other side", so to speak. It's flowing out easily but is requiring more effort on our part to execute it and transfer what is in our minds into sonic form. The present time is being spent honing these ideas and delivering them in the way that feels best for us. We hope to record this album early next year.
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?
The influences have always been varied for each of us. The biggest influences are drawn from our own feelings and life experiences. We like to create an atmosphere first and foremost within our dark and smokey practice space. In terms of what we are listening to, that is also different for each member. Anything from obscure Australian death metal to 60's psychedelic folk to underground Hip Hop. There are always a lot of sounds on rotation.
11.Does Occultism play any role in your music?
Yes, it does.
12.What are some of your non musical interests?
Art, Literature, Computers, Electronics, DIY building, Film, Gaming and Drinking.... I think that broadly covers us all. We each have strong roles to play in our lives outside of the band which is interesting as the frustrations associated with each, come together in the room and makes for some good, creative fire.
13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Tell a friend about us. We might see you in the future... and of course, Be Excellent To Each Other.
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