The last time that the world heard from David Parland, there were many plans for the resurrection of Infernal, as well as the rebirth of a musical legacy that goes back over two decades. However not all went as it was meant to, in the months and years that followed. Other than an E.P. that went, largely, unnoticed in the underground, things went silent once again.
Morbid hails! It has been quite a while since the last interview that you did for the Rites of the Black Moon Webzine. What have you been up to for the past few years? Why such a long period of silence and relative inactivity?
Well, to really to tell the truth, the way it´s been, I've felt like I've literally been placed under a curse. No, maybe not, since I don´t believe in real curses, but for the last ten years I've really fucking struggled every day to survive. Every day. Without giving out too many personal things (which I am doing here for the most part anyway, I realize), I guess I have to to explain this long absence. Also, I've heard rumours that I should be dead etc, pure bullshit of course, but well can't deny the fact that way too many years I've lived really miserably.
To begin with, I've been living under very bad financial circumstances, since I am not working or having a day job any more. This has mainly been the result of living in constant physical pain for a very long time.
It basically started with a car accident, well over ten years ago, when I had been up to the Abyss studio to talk with Peter Tägtgren and bought some of his old (but still pretty good) studio equipment. I bought his old A-DATs and some other studio gear, since I had the intention of starting up my own little studio. This was around the year 2000 or so. I did run this little studio in the rehearsal place that I had back then, but I had to stop, after about two years, since I could not afford the rent and expenses in the end.
Anyway, what happened the same evening as I drove home from the Abyss studio is that by approximately 23.15, and just being a little more than over an hour by car from my home in Stockholm, I crashed at high speed with a fucking elk. This was in the middle of January, and I thought after driving most of the way home, that I finally was "safe" from driving on the roads where you have wild animals passing. Suddenly, a big elk came up from the right side of the road, and in seconds, crashed into my old Volvo, making it basically trash. It looked like it had been run over by a bulldozer. Incredibly, I survived and the recording equipment didn't get damaged either, since it was in the back seat. However, the car got so damaged that it didn't look like a car anymore. It was a total wreck. Anyway, I made my way out of the car by smashing out the side window, since I could not open any doors or anything. I climbed out of the car wreck, and basically didn't have a fucking scratch, as opposed to this fucking elk which died immediately and was thrown at least 20 meters in the air, behind the car. When I got behind the car and found it dead, drenched in blood and without both of its horns, I felt like I was in a movie. It was completely surreal. I later found one of the horns in the back seat of my, now, destroyed car.
So I just stood there in the middle of nowhere, late in the evening/night, without a car and not knowing how the hell I was going to get home. This was before mobile phones were so common, as well. After a while another car passed me and saw what had happened and helped me to contact a fucking cab that could drive me home, and to call someone with a truck, to carry away the wrecked car from the road. Even though, physically, I didn't get a scratch, I got a pretty bad whiplash injury, which I noticed just got worse and worse, especially after a few days. At the time of the crash I felt nothing though. This incident combined with the fact that I'd been having some back problems, from jobs where I had to carry heavy things, forced me to live in constant pain, and this started my "journey" into painkillerland so to speak. Now, over a decade later, I can´t fucking live without strong painkillers and some other shit that I've been as well addicted to over the years.
So for a whole decade almost, I did not do much, still playing, but not anywhere as much as I "use" to. other than some work with INFERNAL, and some work with Hellspawn. I've spent many years in isolation, because of very strong physical pain.Things are finally better with me now, and I am slowly coming back, and taking up music full time again. However, as it is, I can not function normally without meds.You may know that we have the hardest policy in the world when it comes to giving out pain medication to people (pretty much same as in the US, but worse). Nearly everything is considered a narcotic here. You can´t almost get sleeping pills. Too many people die because of this insane and completely non-scientific policy. It's morals from politicians who have the vision of a completely "drug free society", and that will never be accomplished. This is medication, except for the worst drugs, like heroin and shit; otherwise this really is medication for people. For long periods, I have been denied any help at all. Needless to say, I've been forced to self-medicate, which I normally would never have done. I do not feel any guilt for this though, as I didn't ask for this shit to ever happen and my faith and confidence in the Swedish health authorities/doctors is beyond zero. I want to crush this, and it's one of my goals. This goes as well for the whole Swedish society, as its downfall is getting worse and worse with every month. I am moving out of Sweden the day that I have enough money, that's for sure. It would not bother me one bit if practically every politician (except one, which I am actually supporting) should directly get a bullet in their heads. The nation of Sweden is dead, and the country I grew up with is dead. The crime rates are comparable to those in the US and the immigration is the worst that we have here in Europe. Everything is corrupt. No shit, only the uncomfortable truth.
Apart from all this, I have been forced to live under very extreme circumstances particularly for this year, almost ending up dead several times. I do not have my old apartment anymore. I've been arrested by the police numerous times, being in custody for about a week. I've been placed against my will in a "psychiatric" ward for "detoxification purposes" for some weeks as well (for this painkiller/"drug" addiction.). This was legally wrong since I am no fucking hardcore junkie or so and never will be.. Also been on trial for beating up a social worker, and got my punishment for this some months ago, jail or probation for a year. So, of course, I chose the latter. Also, not too far back, I felt so fucking sick of everything that I nearly finished myself. There was just too many bad incidents in way too little time, so in a moment of feeling really miserable that I swallowed a jar of very toxic pills. This was a deadly dose by all means, but ok, I wimped out at the last minute and called an ambulance. Everything went black from then, basically.
The next day, I woke up in the hospital, having had my stomach pumped and having to drink large amounts activated coal/carbon. I had electric sensors all over my body, as well as a fucking straw/stick in my mouth and throat which restricted my airways, almost choking me to death. This was something far beyond any horror or terror I've ever felt before. I was still heavily sedated so I couldn't speak either. Imagine being choked and not being able to communicate at the same time. That's exactly what happened and it was so horrible I would have chosen death instead of this. After half an hour or so I finally slurred "get this shit out, get this shit out", since I couldn't breathe at all, but they just pushed this thing back in my throat, and it literally felt like being raped and assaulted, this by the hospital staff. I finally got that thing out and could start breathing again and screamed to that hospital team, "Fuck, didn't you understand I was fucking choking to death???" Fucking idiots! I could have died there.
After all of this, life has actually gotten better. Seemed like I had to hit absolute rock bottom to start climbing up again. I am definitely several times better now, although the pain's not very good, but I am finally back to playing a lot of guitar for hours every day, since I am and always will be a guitar freak. I have started a lot of projects that will all result in new record releases. It will be very hard work, but I am coming back. Not much can stop me this time. I am so full of anger that I could kill hundreds of people, but well, I try to focus and put that energy into a full comeback. Hate that word by the way, but that is what shall happen. Too many years have passed by without any purpose at all. I am mad, pissed to the core, that I've had to endure all this, but this makes me even more motivated to get back and kind of take back all that I've lost.
I know this was rather difficult to share and appreciate the candid nature of your response. So, taking all of this into account, what is the current status of Infernal?
The status of INFERNAL as a real/full band is, well, not happening right now as we speak. But this doesn't mean that there isn't going to be an album. I've said it too many times before, I know, but there is absolutely going to be an album and this sometime during 2013. I have 80% of the material, but the biggest problem right now is to find a really killer drummer, but I´ll start a massive search for that any day. I'll do the rest myself if its needed. As you know I have done the vocals since 2009, so right now the drummer thing is the main issue. Fuck, this drummer thing has nearly fucking killed me. There are just always problems with them.
What other musical projects are you working on, as of right now?
Except for INFERNAL - just BLACKMOON (re-named Blackmoon´s DARKWINDS for a while, but now changed back). Anyway, this might seem a little too much to do at the same time, but since this is both old and new material, that has been collected over a long period of time, I have quite a bit of stuff. So right now I'll work on both, simultaneously. INFERNAL, I obviously have most material for. BLACKMOON, about half an album, and it's very much in a slower, heavy kind of Dark/Black Metal. It's probably the most melodic stuff I've ever done. I hope for a late 2013 release for this as well, but before that, a 3-4 track promo CD will be out (released by myself, just to do some pre-promotion for the project, and as well to hopefully get an album deal for this project). I hope to release a 3-4 track very limited CD, just as a taster, and as well to regain interest in the project - which is, by the way, not exactly the same stuff as I once recorded at the infamous Unsound studio with Dan Swanö. This is so much more professional.
Hammerheart Records is actually re-releasing the old Total War CD, but as it's rather short, we thought we should do some brand new stuff (like 4-5 tracks to begin with). Hopefully this can be a re-start of WAR, but I can't say anything else right now except that we're gonna do this. By the way, as far as re-releases go, I am currently working on a jubileum issue of the In Conspiracy With Satan BATHORY tribute album, since it's been fifteen years since it came out. This will be with completely new packaging, superior artwork, and about 5-6 bands added. Among others will be WATAIN, which I'd say is the new hope for Swedish and Satanic Black metal. So, I am working with quite a lot right now you see, but I don't yet know what will come out first - probably WAR or the re-release of the BATHORY tribute. Possibly even this BLACKMOON taster CD. INFERNAL will be later, despite that this is what I have absolutely most material for.
In 2010, The Infernal Return E.P. was released through Goathorned Productions. It seemed that they did not do the best job of promoting and distributing this recording. How would you judge your dealings with this label? Did they meet your expectations or not?
I think they did an ok job. I never expected much from this very small and little cult Colombian label. They did their work, and got the E.P. out, but of course, the distribution has been next to disastrous. I still love the way it came out, with my own artwork, combined with theirs as well, as doing it in both black and purple vinyl. So I have no resentment towards them.
Are there any plans to revive your old label and to reissue The Infernal Return on CD or even cassette?
No. As for reviving Hellspawn, I shall never say never, but not as it looks now. I would probably do it if I had stronger finances, but not for INFERNAL, since that release simply needs a bigger label.
Morbid hails! It has been quite a while since the last interview that you did for the Rites of the Black Moon Webzine. What have you been up to for the past few years? Why such a long period of silence and relative inactivity?
Well, to really to tell the truth, the way it´s been, I've felt like I've literally been placed under a curse. No, maybe not, since I don´t believe in real curses, but for the last ten years I've really fucking struggled every day to survive. Every day. Without giving out too many personal things (which I am doing here for the most part anyway, I realize), I guess I have to to explain this long absence. Also, I've heard rumours that I should be dead etc, pure bullshit of course, but well can't deny the fact that way too many years I've lived really miserably.
To begin with, I've been living under very bad financial circumstances, since I am not working or having a day job any more. This has mainly been the result of living in constant physical pain for a very long time.
It basically started with a car accident, well over ten years ago, when I had been up to the Abyss studio to talk with Peter Tägtgren and bought some of his old (but still pretty good) studio equipment. I bought his old A-DATs and some other studio gear, since I had the intention of starting up my own little studio. This was around the year 2000 or so. I did run this little studio in the rehearsal place that I had back then, but I had to stop, after about two years, since I could not afford the rent and expenses in the end.
Anyway, what happened the same evening as I drove home from the Abyss studio is that by approximately 23.15, and just being a little more than over an hour by car from my home in Stockholm, I crashed at high speed with a fucking elk. This was in the middle of January, and I thought after driving most of the way home, that I finally was "safe" from driving on the roads where you have wild animals passing. Suddenly, a big elk came up from the right side of the road, and in seconds, crashed into my old Volvo, making it basically trash. It looked like it had been run over by a bulldozer. Incredibly, I survived and the recording equipment didn't get damaged either, since it was in the back seat. However, the car got so damaged that it didn't look like a car anymore. It was a total wreck. Anyway, I made my way out of the car by smashing out the side window, since I could not open any doors or anything. I climbed out of the car wreck, and basically didn't have a fucking scratch, as opposed to this fucking elk which died immediately and was thrown at least 20 meters in the air, behind the car. When I got behind the car and found it dead, drenched in blood and without both of its horns, I felt like I was in a movie. It was completely surreal. I later found one of the horns in the back seat of my, now, destroyed car.
So I just stood there in the middle of nowhere, late in the evening/night, without a car and not knowing how the hell I was going to get home. This was before mobile phones were so common, as well. After a while another car passed me and saw what had happened and helped me to contact a fucking cab that could drive me home, and to call someone with a truck, to carry away the wrecked car from the road. Even though, physically, I didn't get a scratch, I got a pretty bad whiplash injury, which I noticed just got worse and worse, especially after a few days. At the time of the crash I felt nothing though. This incident combined with the fact that I'd been having some back problems, from jobs where I had to carry heavy things, forced me to live in constant pain, and this started my "journey" into painkillerland so to speak. Now, over a decade later, I can´t fucking live without strong painkillers and some other shit that I've been as well addicted to over the years.
So for a whole decade almost, I did not do much, still playing, but not anywhere as much as I "use" to. other than some work with INFERNAL, and some work with Hellspawn. I've spent many years in isolation, because of very strong physical pain.Things are finally better with me now, and I am slowly coming back, and taking up music full time again. However, as it is, I can not function normally without meds.You may know that we have the hardest policy in the world when it comes to giving out pain medication to people (pretty much same as in the US, but worse). Nearly everything is considered a narcotic here. You can´t almost get sleeping pills. Too many people die because of this insane and completely non-scientific policy. It's morals from politicians who have the vision of a completely "drug free society", and that will never be accomplished. This is medication, except for the worst drugs, like heroin and shit; otherwise this really is medication for people. For long periods, I have been denied any help at all. Needless to say, I've been forced to self-medicate, which I normally would never have done. I do not feel any guilt for this though, as I didn't ask for this shit to ever happen and my faith and confidence in the Swedish health authorities/doctors is beyond zero. I want to crush this, and it's one of my goals. This goes as well for the whole Swedish society, as its downfall is getting worse and worse with every month. I am moving out of Sweden the day that I have enough money, that's for sure. It would not bother me one bit if practically every politician (except one, which I am actually supporting) should directly get a bullet in their heads. The nation of Sweden is dead, and the country I grew up with is dead. The crime rates are comparable to those in the US and the immigration is the worst that we have here in Europe. Everything is corrupt. No shit, only the uncomfortable truth.
Apart from all this, I have been forced to live under very extreme circumstances particularly for this year, almost ending up dead several times. I do not have my old apartment anymore. I've been arrested by the police numerous times, being in custody for about a week. I've been placed against my will in a "psychiatric" ward for "detoxification purposes" for some weeks as well (for this painkiller/"drug" addiction.). This was legally wrong since I am no fucking hardcore junkie or so and never will be.. Also been on trial for beating up a social worker, and got my punishment for this some months ago, jail or probation for a year. So, of course, I chose the latter. Also, not too far back, I felt so fucking sick of everything that I nearly finished myself. There was just too many bad incidents in way too little time, so in a moment of feeling really miserable that I swallowed a jar of very toxic pills. This was a deadly dose by all means, but ok, I wimped out at the last minute and called an ambulance. Everything went black from then, basically.
The next day, I woke up in the hospital, having had my stomach pumped and having to drink large amounts activated coal/carbon. I had electric sensors all over my body, as well as a fucking straw/stick in my mouth and throat which restricted my airways, almost choking me to death. This was something far beyond any horror or terror I've ever felt before. I was still heavily sedated so I couldn't speak either. Imagine being choked and not being able to communicate at the same time. That's exactly what happened and it was so horrible I would have chosen death instead of this. After half an hour or so I finally slurred "get this shit out, get this shit out", since I couldn't breathe at all, but they just pushed this thing back in my throat, and it literally felt like being raped and assaulted, this by the hospital staff. I finally got that thing out and could start breathing again and screamed to that hospital team, "Fuck, didn't you understand I was fucking choking to death???" Fucking idiots! I could have died there.
After all of this, life has actually gotten better. Seemed like I had to hit absolute rock bottom to start climbing up again. I am definitely several times better now, although the pain's not very good, but I am finally back to playing a lot of guitar for hours every day, since I am and always will be a guitar freak. I have started a lot of projects that will all result in new record releases. It will be very hard work, but I am coming back. Not much can stop me this time. I am so full of anger that I could kill hundreds of people, but well, I try to focus and put that energy into a full comeback. Hate that word by the way, but that is what shall happen. Too many years have passed by without any purpose at all. I am mad, pissed to the core, that I've had to endure all this, but this makes me even more motivated to get back and kind of take back all that I've lost.
I know this was rather difficult to share and appreciate the candid nature of your response. So, taking all of this into account, what is the current status of Infernal?
The status of INFERNAL as a real/full band is, well, not happening right now as we speak. But this doesn't mean that there isn't going to be an album. I've said it too many times before, I know, but there is absolutely going to be an album and this sometime during 2013. I have 80% of the material, but the biggest problem right now is to find a really killer drummer, but I´ll start a massive search for that any day. I'll do the rest myself if its needed. As you know I have done the vocals since 2009, so right now the drummer thing is the main issue. Fuck, this drummer thing has nearly fucking killed me. There are just always problems with them.
What other musical projects are you working on, as of right now?
Except for INFERNAL - just BLACKMOON (re-named Blackmoon´s DARKWINDS for a while, but now changed back). Anyway, this might seem a little too much to do at the same time, but since this is both old and new material, that has been collected over a long period of time, I have quite a bit of stuff. So right now I'll work on both, simultaneously. INFERNAL, I obviously have most material for. BLACKMOON, about half an album, and it's very much in a slower, heavy kind of Dark/Black Metal. It's probably the most melodic stuff I've ever done. I hope for a late 2013 release for this as well, but before that, a 3-4 track promo CD will be out (released by myself, just to do some pre-promotion for the project, and as well to hopefully get an album deal for this project). I hope to release a 3-4 track very limited CD, just as a taster, and as well to regain interest in the project - which is, by the way, not exactly the same stuff as I once recorded at the infamous Unsound studio with Dan Swanö. This is so much more professional.
Hammerheart Records is actually re-releasing the old Total War CD, but as it's rather short, we thought we should do some brand new stuff (like 4-5 tracks to begin with). Hopefully this can be a re-start of WAR, but I can't say anything else right now except that we're gonna do this. By the way, as far as re-releases go, I am currently working on a jubileum issue of the In Conspiracy With Satan BATHORY tribute album, since it's been fifteen years since it came out. This will be with completely new packaging, superior artwork, and about 5-6 bands added. Among others will be WATAIN, which I'd say is the new hope for Swedish and Satanic Black metal. So, I am working with quite a lot right now you see, but I don't yet know what will come out first - probably WAR or the re-release of the BATHORY tribute. Possibly even this BLACKMOON taster CD. INFERNAL will be later, despite that this is what I have absolutely most material for.
In 2010, The Infernal Return E.P. was released through Goathorned Productions. It seemed that they did not do the best job of promoting and distributing this recording. How would you judge your dealings with this label? Did they meet your expectations or not?
I think they did an ok job. I never expected much from this very small and little cult Colombian label. They did their work, and got the E.P. out, but of course, the distribution has been next to disastrous. I still love the way it came out, with my own artwork, combined with theirs as well, as doing it in both black and purple vinyl. So I have no resentment towards them.
Are there any plans to revive your old label and to reissue The Infernal Return on CD or even cassette?
No. As for reviving Hellspawn, I shall never say never, but not as it looks now. I would probably do it if I had stronger finances, but not for INFERNAL, since that release simply needs a bigger label.
As for the 7” itself, the material was great and should have silenced any critics that may have questioned your abilities, after such a period of silence. What sort of feedback did you get and how pleased were you, personally, with the end result?
I am pleased with it, as said, but really disappointed that practically no one has heard it. Almost no one. There exists only some very few reviews of it, all positive though. Honestly, I think the songs are bloody fucking good, if I am allowed to say that myself. "Of The Seven Gates" is a track that I actually listen to over and over. This one kind of shows the direction of the whole album. I'd say the upcoming record will sound like a cross between old NECROPHOBIC, but with blastbeats as well, with some guitar harmony stuff similar to DISSECTION and well some old Thrash and Heavy Metal. Maybe a few (old) MORBID ANGEL influences too. Of course, I don't need to say that this is purely Satanic, as it should already be understood.
Despite being quite productive with various bands during the '90s, you've had problems in maintaining a stable line-up for Infernal, for the past decade. To what do you attribute this difficulty?
Well, to begin with it's really hard finding dedicated and talented people. But otherwise, there haven't been any other specific difficulties/problems to hold together bands for me, than the same problems other bands have as well to keep their members. If I was somewhat more social though, I have to admit it might be easier to find new members, but I see the same thing in most bands who are splitting up, changing line-ups, or argue and go separate ways. Bands like (hehe) DARK FUNERAL, MARDUK, MEGADETH, BLACK SABBATH, ANNIHILATOR, BEHEMOTH, VADER (just to name a few), and a horde of others have had zillions of members. I think DARK FUNERAL have something like 13-14 ex -members, and the other bands mentioned above have very many as well. I think I read that ANNIHILATOR had had something like 30-35 (!) members through all years. With the recent split, now, NECROPHOBIC are rising in numbers as well, as far as members go. Of course, they are light-years away compared to a lot of other bands.They´ve been around for 23 years now so I guess that's natural. Their last line-ups have been good, I think.
What happened with Martin and Tomas, both of whom were members of the band when we did the last interview? Would you say that their departure is the primary reason that there has been no follow-up L.P.?
As for Tomas, there are a lot of things I could say, but I choose not to say too much since it leads to absolutely nothing but more animosity. Unfortunately, we aren't friends anymore, which is about all I can say. I've tried to contact him many times, since I'd prefer to bury the hatchet, but I've now given up. He's still a killer drummer, I suppose. Anyway, Martin (who I don't meet that often anymore) is at least still my friend. He actually never got into to the band for real. We were planning/hoping we could start to rehearse around early 2010, after Tomas had done those GORGOROTH recordings, but everything fell apart. Anyway, I never fully understood why things went as they did. Also, there was some really foul play involved last time, if you remember that, since this whole matter affected our last interview (some questions were forced to be erased etc). That was really fucked and should never need to happen again.
You've mentioned that you have much of the material for the long-awaited Infernal full-length, and told a bit about what we can expect musically. Do you have a title in mind and can you share any song titles or other info?
I can, but of course that totally destroys the mystique. The album is going to be called The Infernal Retribution and it will feature nine songs (ten with an instrumental outro track), including those from the E.P. As far as titles, well, I can share at least the following:
"Descent To Hell", "Killing Christ", "The Infernal Retribution" and "B.M.R" (old song from an old band of mine - a new version yes - since it's 100% my song/composition, but it will be on the album for sure). Also, the tracks from the 2010 E.P. The Infernal Return. For those who aren't familiar with them, these are "Of The Seven Gates", and "Godforsaken - (With Hate I Burn), and the intro "The Darkside Calls". Lastly there is this dark, doomy heavy instrumental called "Anthem Infernali". So that´s what I can share with you folks!... but that is not all as said. I have a few more up my sleeve.
Ideally, by when would you hope to be able to record and release this album?
In 2013, and release it maybe September of the same year. There's too many factors that I just cannot control myself, except the music, so I cannot say anything for sure. Had Tomas and I stuck together, we would have had this out at least two years ago. So finding a new drummer is again, absolutely, the first priority now.
What do you think of bands like Watain and Ondskapt; those that have risen in your absence and currently seem to define the Swedish Black Metal sound, so to speak?
I haven´t really heard of ONDSKAPT, except the name, but WATAIN I really like. Maybe not the absolute first releases that much, but the last two CD are bloody great and partly masterpieces. Even though I am not the type who gets fire and flames over a band, just because of a very spectacular stage show, WATAIN are the only hope we have though as far as real Satanic Black Metal goes. They carry the flag of Satanic Black Metal far better than any band today. I guess that's why they're very successful. However, though, if they play Anti-Cosmic Death Metal or Christraping Black metal I don't care. That anti-cosmic thing for me feels a little overdone. For me, Satanic means being an adversary, fiend; meaning the enemy of mankind and this shit world/society and has not too much for me to do with these anti-cosmic ideologies. I hate people! That's what I've always said and I'd like to murder them myself. If I got my will satisfied, so many fucking people would die, several hundreds. But, as said, being a misanthrope. That's enough for me. If today's definition of being being a Satanist means killing/extinguishing the whole of the cosmos, which seems a rather hard thing to do (understatement), I do just not care. I am a pure misanthrope, Satanic by my own definition. I am just less interested in this ritualistic stuff.
As for older bands, what do you feel of the completely ridiculous farce that is Dark Funeral and have they tarnished the legacy that you hoped to create with releases such as Dark Funeral and The Secrets of the Black Arts, in your eyes? The truth is, most newer fans only know them for their worthless releases that came since your departure, not realizing that the band was once worthwhile. Does this ever bother you?
No, it's not bothering me at all that they continue with their Black Metal circus. But well, the band was basically another band on the first two releases. My vision was definitely not what they are doing today. I am not a Church of Satan disciple either, but they are. We were not that in the beginning, that's all I can say, and as long as I stayed we were never labeled as Church of Satan followers. LaVey was clearly intelligent though, but his Satanism, no. I've read a lot about it; I even got the old "Black Flame" magazine from them, but the more I read, the more I disliked it, apart from some things like taking revenge on your enemies, which is the most christian thing to NOT do ever... But these theatrical bullshit rituals aren't my thing. I'd rather sacrifice a living human for the sake of it, or kill someone who has done something harmful to me. Then they deserve punishment. As for Lavey though, he was partly an intelligent person, but also a charlatan. But, again, I guess I have my own interpretation of what Satanism is. It's being the arch-enemy of this world and mankind, rebelling against normal conventions and living a life which has not very much in common with the average normal person.
Anyway, sorry if I got carried away there. To return to the question regarding my old "bandmates", well, I've nothing against them really. But come on, there is not much of a sinister radiation when seeing them play today. They just rely on extreme blast drumming. Their drummer is killer though, and the new vocalist seems better than Masse (Lord Oranienburg - as he was originally called on his first gig with us in Germany, 1995). For me the riffing and guitar-work is very generic and very predictable, though, So, no - it doesn't give me much or anything to listen to them today. Lord Ahriman's statements that they are developing for each album are purely ridiculous. Sorry, but have to say it, since every album have sounded more or less the same since I left.
In the last couple years, old Necrophobic material has been re-released. Were you able to have any input in the process and what do you think of the band celebrating its history a bit more; history that you had a great deal to do with?
I am 100% for these re-releases that have come out now in the last year on Hammerheart. They have at least given a little bit of hope for me that there is any idea to continue (with music). I wasn't originally involved in any of those old (NECROPHOBIC) releases, (Satanic Blasphemies on Regain Records, that is). Despite that Joakim claims he contacted me about this, he didn't really. I read it on Blabbermouth, and contacted him about it. I have no resentment towards him by no means, but I just told him we should release this on Hammerheart instead of Regain (who ripped off every band in the end, then completely disappeared from the surface of earth. See any similarities with old us Necropolis here??). So, in connection with Guido, (Hammerheart boss) I made the Spawned By Evil E.P. happen (with those extra demo tracks) and now finally give Satanic Blasphemies a proper release as well, so that we're not totally ripped off like with Regain.
Speaking of Necrophobic, they recently lost both guitarists and had to recruit new blood for the band. After all these years, and one aborted attempt at a reunion, would you ever consider rejoining the band?
Maybe, but as I've already re-joined them once in 2000, and it didn't really work out in the end, I have a little bit hard to think it would work out now. However, if just Joakim and I could sit down and discuss some things, I don't see this as an impossibility. Joakim and I are old, old mates, but in a band situation and in the long run, there has been some problems, I am not denying that. The band is partly another band now and, when I rejoined, it was just not the right time. The material for Bloodhymns was definitely more straight Death Metal than the so called "Blackened Death Metal" that we we were doing on the first albums, and that we were known for. However, I feel they have somewhat returned to that sound, so musically I can't see any reason for it to not work. Anyway, they must of course have an interest in having me back, which I doubt, but as I am a much better guitarist now, compared to what I was when the first asked me to re-join, I think it could work. As long as me and Joakim can just sort out some minor differences. I'd be open for it.
If given the opportunity, what musicians would you like to work with, if any?
Anyone who is serious (really serious) and committed to doing music on a pretty professional level. It would demand a pretty high level of musicianship of course. If I can find another guitarist with a strong will and is prepared to sacrifice time for a band (INFERNAL, or a complete new band), I would do it directly. Also, just to stress this, a really killer and dedicated drummer. Actually the latter is what is absolutely most important right now. That problem needs to be solved somewhat fast. I have a few in mind, but if that doesn't work out, I'd/we have to put out an ad or something on the internet. This must be solved. I am not gonna sit with a drum machine and program this...(I use this only for early demos though).
What are your immediate plans for Infernal and would you ever be interested in putting together a touring line-up and playing the summer festivals?
No. Never. I hate, truly utterly hate, especially, summer festivals. I am not a summer guy. I have only been to festivals twice in my life. As for INFERNAL, the only real goals are to (1) find a drummer and, (2) rehearse and play guitar until I'm better than I've ever been, and then record The Infernal Retribution.
If you were playing live with Infernal, what sort of stage show would be involved? Describe the ideal Infernal gig, to best convey the musical and aesthetic vision that you have for the band.
No specific stage show at all. I/we don't need that. Just playing as professional as possible. I don't need any special gear or stage equipment, just all dressed in black and my guitars + Marshalls and hopefully feeling the adrenaline flow. Yeah, of course, having a few people slaughtered alive on stage also.
How important are lyrics for Infernal and what are the main things that you draw inspiration from?
Lyrics are not the absolute most important thing. The music is. But it's a must of course, that they deal with whatever diabolic visions I may have, and want to write about. It usually ends in different expressions of Armageddon - the end of this world, suicide, visions of Hell itself, and hatred towards pretty much everything. I won't change into singing about other stuff, like for example NECROPHOBIC, who now both invoke Satanic forces in their lyrics and as well deal with Norse mythology on their last records, although I see nothing wrong with that. Anyway, INFERNAL is and will always be dedicated to pure Satanism. Not in a tongue in cheek way like DEICIDE nowadays. This is serious. Other projects may include other subjects to write about however, but no singing about flowers here or happy summer days.
As I've known you for years, it is no secret that death is an ever-present thought in your mind. How has this affected you over the years and in what ways has it, or will it, come through in your music?
Well, Death is something that at least is "democratic" (although i really despise that word). It will happen to all of us, regardless how rich, famous or whatever social status you may have. I pretty much know though, that even since I'd prefer a long "healthy and happy" life, I don't think it´s going go that way for me. If the suffering continues the same as in the last years, and as I have already lived more than half of my life (probably a lot more actually), I'd prefer going out and ending things myself than having 20 more years of suffering in this world. I live for the moment now (it´s a cliché - know that), but when your time is out it is out. But living in pure torment, no chance, that is no choice for me. Give me ten more good years, rather than 30 years of just meaningless existing without any purpose.
What do you do, these days, to maintain some grip on sanity in this hellish world we're in?
It's hard to keep sane, I must say, when the world and everything is so extremely fucked up and not sane itself. Anyway, I work on my playing, music, and try to keep a minimum of health, walking late by night usually. Otherwise I do not do much. I used to play a lot of video games, all these years, when I was in "solitude", so to speak. I've kind of lost that interest, and now only play occasionally. Mainly the old Capcom games. Resident Evil 4, I played for over a year, but the new ones suck, especially this last abomination (RESI 6). It's totally horrible. I still play the God of War games once in a while, but as said, now all time goes into making music and playing again. That is my call.
What sorts of music do you find yourself listening to, the most, lately?
Actually most old Metal, since I am an '80s Metal guy. All but some other stuff that I just happened to get my hands on. Anyway,lately, it's been old MAIDEN, ACCEPT, JUDAS PRIEST, the new WATAIN, BATHORY (of course) and the DEMONAZ album, which is fucking brilliant. Didn't know it even existed. Really killer stuff!
Since you are a big fan of King Diamond's older work, it should be asked whether or not you managed to make it out to the Sweden Rock Festival earlier this year?
I do not like the Sweden Rock Festival, never been there. I´ve seen KING DIAMOND in early 1987 on the Abigail tour, and some years ago as well. I don't remember for which album it was, but it was a good show. This was before he was hospitalized and had his heart operation and back surgery though. KING DIAMOND and MERCYFUL FATE are both still all-time fave bands of mine.
In general, how are things in Stockholm and have your political views remained the same as before?
Stockholm sucks worse and worse, everyone thinks so, since the mass immigration which I totally despise.This is not because I am racist, but fuck, we just can't take all the immigrants of the world to this country. Actually, I'd say there is a total political war about this thing. If you are against any more immigrants coming (we already have the highest rate of immigrants in the whole of Europe), you're considered far right-wing and far left-wing if you think the opposite. We have a media that is 100% dedicated to the total downfall of Sweden, for example, the tabloid Expressen's absolute highest wish is to have as many immigrants and as much multiculture as possible in this country. Everyday, there are several articles about the so called racism here in Sweden. Actually, there is none basically. It's all media lies. All this fucking country's money goes to immigrants so then how could we be racists??? I am not going to stay here though. I'd likely flip and kill some of these left-wing people, since they really destroy the whole of Sweden... I'd rather get some peace somewhere else.
Thanks for your time. Any final words or anyone you would like to wish an unpleasant demise or a simple 'fuck off!' to?
WELL, THEN A BIG FUCK OFF TO THE WHOLE FUCKING WORLD.. Anyway brother, thanx for the interview, AND KEEP THE FLAME OF DEATH BURNING...
I am pleased with it, as said, but really disappointed that practically no one has heard it. Almost no one. There exists only some very few reviews of it, all positive though. Honestly, I think the songs are bloody fucking good, if I am allowed to say that myself. "Of The Seven Gates" is a track that I actually listen to over and over. This one kind of shows the direction of the whole album. I'd say the upcoming record will sound like a cross between old NECROPHOBIC, but with blastbeats as well, with some guitar harmony stuff similar to DISSECTION and well some old Thrash and Heavy Metal. Maybe a few (old) MORBID ANGEL influences too. Of course, I don't need to say that this is purely Satanic, as it should already be understood.
Despite being quite productive with various bands during the '90s, you've had problems in maintaining a stable line-up for Infernal, for the past decade. To what do you attribute this difficulty?
Well, to begin with it's really hard finding dedicated and talented people. But otherwise, there haven't been any other specific difficulties/problems to hold together bands for me, than the same problems other bands have as well to keep their members. If I was somewhat more social though, I have to admit it might be easier to find new members, but I see the same thing in most bands who are splitting up, changing line-ups, or argue and go separate ways. Bands like (hehe) DARK FUNERAL, MARDUK, MEGADETH, BLACK SABBATH, ANNIHILATOR, BEHEMOTH, VADER (just to name a few), and a horde of others have had zillions of members. I think DARK FUNERAL have something like 13-14 ex -members, and the other bands mentioned above have very many as well. I think I read that ANNIHILATOR had had something like 30-35 (!) members through all years. With the recent split, now, NECROPHOBIC are rising in numbers as well, as far as members go. Of course, they are light-years away compared to a lot of other bands.They´ve been around for 23 years now so I guess that's natural. Their last line-ups have been good, I think.
What happened with Martin and Tomas, both of whom were members of the band when we did the last interview? Would you say that their departure is the primary reason that there has been no follow-up L.P.?
As for Tomas, there are a lot of things I could say, but I choose not to say too much since it leads to absolutely nothing but more animosity. Unfortunately, we aren't friends anymore, which is about all I can say. I've tried to contact him many times, since I'd prefer to bury the hatchet, but I've now given up. He's still a killer drummer, I suppose. Anyway, Martin (who I don't meet that often anymore) is at least still my friend. He actually never got into to the band for real. We were planning/hoping we could start to rehearse around early 2010, after Tomas had done those GORGOROTH recordings, but everything fell apart. Anyway, I never fully understood why things went as they did. Also, there was some really foul play involved last time, if you remember that, since this whole matter affected our last interview (some questions were forced to be erased etc). That was really fucked and should never need to happen again.
You've mentioned that you have much of the material for the long-awaited Infernal full-length, and told a bit about what we can expect musically. Do you have a title in mind and can you share any song titles or other info?
I can, but of course that totally destroys the mystique. The album is going to be called The Infernal Retribution and it will feature nine songs (ten with an instrumental outro track), including those from the E.P. As far as titles, well, I can share at least the following:
"Descent To Hell", "Killing Christ", "The Infernal Retribution" and "B.M.R" (old song from an old band of mine - a new version yes - since it's 100% my song/composition, but it will be on the album for sure). Also, the tracks from the 2010 E.P. The Infernal Return. For those who aren't familiar with them, these are "Of The Seven Gates", and "Godforsaken - (With Hate I Burn), and the intro "The Darkside Calls". Lastly there is this dark, doomy heavy instrumental called "Anthem Infernali". So that´s what I can share with you folks!... but that is not all as said. I have a few more up my sleeve.
Ideally, by when would you hope to be able to record and release this album?
In 2013, and release it maybe September of the same year. There's too many factors that I just cannot control myself, except the music, so I cannot say anything for sure. Had Tomas and I stuck together, we would have had this out at least two years ago. So finding a new drummer is again, absolutely, the first priority now.
What do you think of bands like Watain and Ondskapt; those that have risen in your absence and currently seem to define the Swedish Black Metal sound, so to speak?
I haven´t really heard of ONDSKAPT, except the name, but WATAIN I really like. Maybe not the absolute first releases that much, but the last two CD are bloody great and partly masterpieces. Even though I am not the type who gets fire and flames over a band, just because of a very spectacular stage show, WATAIN are the only hope we have though as far as real Satanic Black Metal goes. They carry the flag of Satanic Black Metal far better than any band today. I guess that's why they're very successful. However, though, if they play Anti-Cosmic Death Metal or Christraping Black metal I don't care. That anti-cosmic thing for me feels a little overdone. For me, Satanic means being an adversary, fiend; meaning the enemy of mankind and this shit world/society and has not too much for me to do with these anti-cosmic ideologies. I hate people! That's what I've always said and I'd like to murder them myself. If I got my will satisfied, so many fucking people would die, several hundreds. But, as said, being a misanthrope. That's enough for me. If today's definition of being being a Satanist means killing/extinguishing the whole of the cosmos, which seems a rather hard thing to do (understatement), I do just not care. I am a pure misanthrope, Satanic by my own definition. I am just less interested in this ritualistic stuff.
As for older bands, what do you feel of the completely ridiculous farce that is Dark Funeral and have they tarnished the legacy that you hoped to create with releases such as Dark Funeral and The Secrets of the Black Arts, in your eyes? The truth is, most newer fans only know them for their worthless releases that came since your departure, not realizing that the band was once worthwhile. Does this ever bother you?
No, it's not bothering me at all that they continue with their Black Metal circus. But well, the band was basically another band on the first two releases. My vision was definitely not what they are doing today. I am not a Church of Satan disciple either, but they are. We were not that in the beginning, that's all I can say, and as long as I stayed we were never labeled as Church of Satan followers. LaVey was clearly intelligent though, but his Satanism, no. I've read a lot about it; I even got the old "Black Flame" magazine from them, but the more I read, the more I disliked it, apart from some things like taking revenge on your enemies, which is the most christian thing to NOT do ever... But these theatrical bullshit rituals aren't my thing. I'd rather sacrifice a living human for the sake of it, or kill someone who has done something harmful to me. Then they deserve punishment. As for Lavey though, he was partly an intelligent person, but also a charlatan. But, again, I guess I have my own interpretation of what Satanism is. It's being the arch-enemy of this world and mankind, rebelling against normal conventions and living a life which has not very much in common with the average normal person.
Anyway, sorry if I got carried away there. To return to the question regarding my old "bandmates", well, I've nothing against them really. But come on, there is not much of a sinister radiation when seeing them play today. They just rely on extreme blast drumming. Their drummer is killer though, and the new vocalist seems better than Masse (Lord Oranienburg - as he was originally called on his first gig with us in Germany, 1995). For me the riffing and guitar-work is very generic and very predictable, though, So, no - it doesn't give me much or anything to listen to them today. Lord Ahriman's statements that they are developing for each album are purely ridiculous. Sorry, but have to say it, since every album have sounded more or less the same since I left.
In the last couple years, old Necrophobic material has been re-released. Were you able to have any input in the process and what do you think of the band celebrating its history a bit more; history that you had a great deal to do with?
I am 100% for these re-releases that have come out now in the last year on Hammerheart. They have at least given a little bit of hope for me that there is any idea to continue (with music). I wasn't originally involved in any of those old (NECROPHOBIC) releases, (Satanic Blasphemies on Regain Records, that is). Despite that Joakim claims he contacted me about this, he didn't really. I read it on Blabbermouth, and contacted him about it. I have no resentment towards him by no means, but I just told him we should release this on Hammerheart instead of Regain (who ripped off every band in the end, then completely disappeared from the surface of earth. See any similarities with old us Necropolis here??). So, in connection with Guido, (Hammerheart boss) I made the Spawned By Evil E.P. happen (with those extra demo tracks) and now finally give Satanic Blasphemies a proper release as well, so that we're not totally ripped off like with Regain.
Speaking of Necrophobic, they recently lost both guitarists and had to recruit new blood for the band. After all these years, and one aborted attempt at a reunion, would you ever consider rejoining the band?
Maybe, but as I've already re-joined them once in 2000, and it didn't really work out in the end, I have a little bit hard to think it would work out now. However, if just Joakim and I could sit down and discuss some things, I don't see this as an impossibility. Joakim and I are old, old mates, but in a band situation and in the long run, there has been some problems, I am not denying that. The band is partly another band now and, when I rejoined, it was just not the right time. The material for Bloodhymns was definitely more straight Death Metal than the so called "Blackened Death Metal" that we we were doing on the first albums, and that we were known for. However, I feel they have somewhat returned to that sound, so musically I can't see any reason for it to not work. Anyway, they must of course have an interest in having me back, which I doubt, but as I am a much better guitarist now, compared to what I was when the first asked me to re-join, I think it could work. As long as me and Joakim can just sort out some minor differences. I'd be open for it.
If given the opportunity, what musicians would you like to work with, if any?
Anyone who is serious (really serious) and committed to doing music on a pretty professional level. It would demand a pretty high level of musicianship of course. If I can find another guitarist with a strong will and is prepared to sacrifice time for a band (INFERNAL, or a complete new band), I would do it directly. Also, just to stress this, a really killer and dedicated drummer. Actually the latter is what is absolutely most important right now. That problem needs to be solved somewhat fast. I have a few in mind, but if that doesn't work out, I'd/we have to put out an ad or something on the internet. This must be solved. I am not gonna sit with a drum machine and program this...(I use this only for early demos though).
What are your immediate plans for Infernal and would you ever be interested in putting together a touring line-up and playing the summer festivals?
No. Never. I hate, truly utterly hate, especially, summer festivals. I am not a summer guy. I have only been to festivals twice in my life. As for INFERNAL, the only real goals are to (1) find a drummer and, (2) rehearse and play guitar until I'm better than I've ever been, and then record The Infernal Retribution.
If you were playing live with Infernal, what sort of stage show would be involved? Describe the ideal Infernal gig, to best convey the musical and aesthetic vision that you have for the band.
No specific stage show at all. I/we don't need that. Just playing as professional as possible. I don't need any special gear or stage equipment, just all dressed in black and my guitars + Marshalls and hopefully feeling the adrenaline flow. Yeah, of course, having a few people slaughtered alive on stage also.
How important are lyrics for Infernal and what are the main things that you draw inspiration from?
Lyrics are not the absolute most important thing. The music is. But it's a must of course, that they deal with whatever diabolic visions I may have, and want to write about. It usually ends in different expressions of Armageddon - the end of this world, suicide, visions of Hell itself, and hatred towards pretty much everything. I won't change into singing about other stuff, like for example NECROPHOBIC, who now both invoke Satanic forces in their lyrics and as well deal with Norse mythology on their last records, although I see nothing wrong with that. Anyway, INFERNAL is and will always be dedicated to pure Satanism. Not in a tongue in cheek way like DEICIDE nowadays. This is serious. Other projects may include other subjects to write about however, but no singing about flowers here or happy summer days.
As I've known you for years, it is no secret that death is an ever-present thought in your mind. How has this affected you over the years and in what ways has it, or will it, come through in your music?
Well, Death is something that at least is "democratic" (although i really despise that word). It will happen to all of us, regardless how rich, famous or whatever social status you may have. I pretty much know though, that even since I'd prefer a long "healthy and happy" life, I don't think it´s going go that way for me. If the suffering continues the same as in the last years, and as I have already lived more than half of my life (probably a lot more actually), I'd prefer going out and ending things myself than having 20 more years of suffering in this world. I live for the moment now (it´s a cliché - know that), but when your time is out it is out. But living in pure torment, no chance, that is no choice for me. Give me ten more good years, rather than 30 years of just meaningless existing without any purpose.
What do you do, these days, to maintain some grip on sanity in this hellish world we're in?
It's hard to keep sane, I must say, when the world and everything is so extremely fucked up and not sane itself. Anyway, I work on my playing, music, and try to keep a minimum of health, walking late by night usually. Otherwise I do not do much. I used to play a lot of video games, all these years, when I was in "solitude", so to speak. I've kind of lost that interest, and now only play occasionally. Mainly the old Capcom games. Resident Evil 4, I played for over a year, but the new ones suck, especially this last abomination (RESI 6). It's totally horrible. I still play the God of War games once in a while, but as said, now all time goes into making music and playing again. That is my call.
What sorts of music do you find yourself listening to, the most, lately?
Actually most old Metal, since I am an '80s Metal guy. All but some other stuff that I just happened to get my hands on. Anyway,lately, it's been old MAIDEN, ACCEPT, JUDAS PRIEST, the new WATAIN, BATHORY (of course) and the DEMONAZ album, which is fucking brilliant. Didn't know it even existed. Really killer stuff!
Since you are a big fan of King Diamond's older work, it should be asked whether or not you managed to make it out to the Sweden Rock Festival earlier this year?
I do not like the Sweden Rock Festival, never been there. I´ve seen KING DIAMOND in early 1987 on the Abigail tour, and some years ago as well. I don't remember for which album it was, but it was a good show. This was before he was hospitalized and had his heart operation and back surgery though. KING DIAMOND and MERCYFUL FATE are both still all-time fave bands of mine.
In general, how are things in Stockholm and have your political views remained the same as before?
Stockholm sucks worse and worse, everyone thinks so, since the mass immigration which I totally despise.This is not because I am racist, but fuck, we just can't take all the immigrants of the world to this country. Actually, I'd say there is a total political war about this thing. If you are against any more immigrants coming (we already have the highest rate of immigrants in the whole of Europe), you're considered far right-wing and far left-wing if you think the opposite. We have a media that is 100% dedicated to the total downfall of Sweden, for example, the tabloid Expressen's absolute highest wish is to have as many immigrants and as much multiculture as possible in this country. Everyday, there are several articles about the so called racism here in Sweden. Actually, there is none basically. It's all media lies. All this fucking country's money goes to immigrants so then how could we be racists??? I am not going to stay here though. I'd likely flip and kill some of these left-wing people, since they really destroy the whole of Sweden... I'd rather get some peace somewhere else.
Thanks for your time. Any final words or anyone you would like to wish an unpleasant demise or a simple 'fuck off!' to?
WELL, THEN A BIG FUCK OFF TO THE WHOLE FUCKING WORLD.. Anyway brother, thanx for the interview, AND KEEP THE FLAME OF DEATH BURNING...
