Autumnal black metal is probably not among the genres that one would initially associate with a southern, warm continent such as Australia. However, on „Spine Of The World“, the debut of his soloproject ALDER GLADE, Drøüyn proved that one can authentically play earthy black metal even in the land of the kangaroos. The following interview will give you more details about the way, his musical background makes ALDER GLADE a special project, why it should appeal especially to fantasy fans and what to expect from Drøüyn in the future.
ALDER GLADE is your solo project, the name already suggests that you’re playing earthy black metal. But why did you choose exactly this name, this certain kind of tree?
I wanted to find a name that, as you say, reflects the mood or aesthetic of the music. I researched many types of plants and trees and in the end I liked the way the two words sound together, and the imagery the name creates.
Australia is known for rather high temperatures. So how did you come up with the idea of playing this autumnal kind of black metal?
It does seem like a contrast, doesn’t it! But you would be surprised at the amount of forestry and bushland we have here. I have always enjoyed spending time in nature, and wanted to reflect that in my music.
In which way, do you think, is ALDER GLADE special? What’s the core of your music?
I come from a non-metal musical background, and I think this shows in the music of ALDER GLADE. Whilst the influence of heavy music is obviously there, I feel that by incorporating folk and post-rock elements I’m able to create something more aligned to my personal tastes.
I guess Agalloch had a big impact on you, haven’t they? Which other bands and musicians made a lasting impression on you?
Agalloch are definitely a huge influence on me. Like many, my first taste of black metal was discovering the Norwegian bands of the second wave. But I would say my biggest influences are modern bands, such as Drudkh, Alcest, Wolves in the Throne Room and Urfaust.
It’s probably not that easy to find like-minded musicians in Australia, so a solo project seems practical. However, would you also consider playing in a band if you find the right people?
The thought has crossed my mind, but from past experience I know how difficult working with others can be, hence the attraction to a solo project. If I could find someone like-minded I would be open to collaborating, it can be difficult at times to make all the decisions when you are by yourself.
Until now you’ve released two demos and a compilation that consisted entirely of these two demos. What was the intention behind that compilation?
I was receiving a few requests from fans wanting something physical, and when I was approached by the label, Auris Apothecary, it seemed like the perfect oppurtunity to get something out there.
In the mean time you have released your full length debut „Spine Of The World“. What, in you opinion, is the main progression that the album shows when compared to your previous work?
The production quality is slightly more polished. The songs on the demos were written very quickly and recorded the same, so this time round I put more time into the whole process, both writing and recording.
What is „Spine Of The World“ lyrically about? What does the title refer to?
The name is a reference to a mountain range in both Robert Jordan’s „Wheel Of Time“ fantasy series, as well as the mountain range of the same name in the D&D „Forgotten Realms“ setting. I am a big fantasy fan! The theme of the album speaks to the permanence of nature, the inevitable change of seasons and the insignificance of humanity.
The tracks are quite varied, there are lengthy black metal songs, atmospheric ones with clean guitars, acoustic interludes and everything in between. Is there a track that you would think of as your personal favorite and if so, which one and why?
The closing track, „Beltane“, captures the sound of ALDER GLADE. It’s also one of the oldest songs I have written for this band. All the musical elements that are explored in ALDER GLADE are present in that song.
The production is quite raw, but not exactly low-fi. Are you satisfied with the sound as it is or do you plan on improving it further in the future?
I am happy with the progression from the demos to this release, I am always looking to improve my production techniques however. I want to keep the project as DIY as possible, so it is just a matter of trial and error for me!
The artwork looks a bit chaotic. What did you have in mind, when it was created?
It does, doesn’t it! The artwork is a photo of a moss covered stump I found while exploring a forest one day. I guess I wanted to continue the nature theme I had been following.
The album was released through Northern Silence. How did you come across that label and how did it come to your cooperation?
I am a big fan of a lot of releases NSP has put out, especially the likes of Caladan Brood, Horn and fellow Australian, Woods Of Desolation. Looking at their catalogue I felt that ALDER GLADE would be a perfect fit.
I suppose, ALDER GLADE is a sole studio project at the moment, right? Do you also consider playing live in the future?
It would be a lot of work, and would require quite a large band, but I would enjoy the chance to play the songs live. Like collaborating it would require finding the right people.
What can we expect next from ALDER GLADE?
I have a lot of musical ideas I want to flesh out, a folk album, a synth album, a more traditional black metal album, a lot to work on!
Lets now go on with our traditional Metal1.info-Brainstorming:
Australian wildlife: A bit boring.
Vegemite: Very good in small quantities!
Industrial Black Metal: Confusing.
Musical highlight of 2017: Catching Alcest live.
Same sex marriage: Yes.
ALDER GLADE in five years: Still recording in my bedroom.
Thanks again for your answers. I’ll leave the last words to you:
Huge thank you to Stephan and Metal1 for taking the time to talk to me!
31. Januar 2018 Stephan Rajchl