With Crimson Glory, Leatherwolf and Seven Witches being just three of the bands he fronted over the years Wade Black is well known in the U.S. Metal scene. For the first time in ages he founded a new band himself aptly called WADE BLACK’S ASTRONOMICA that just released a first album titled „The Awakening“. We reached out to Mr. Bkack to speak to him about his plans for the future.
Your new band is called ASTRONOMICA – please introduce it to us!
This is a brand new metal venture by myself and my writing partner, Richard Marks. We think we have put together a very thought provoking album of diverse songs that we hope everyone will enjoy.
Was the name picked in tribute to the Crimson Glory album you sang on?
Yes it was. I am very proud of that album, my fingerprint on the world. With this being the 25th Anniversary of that record, we thought that it would be nice to bring back something old and yet bring something new to the fans at the sametime.
„The Awakening“ is ASTRONOMICA’S first album. How would you describe it to someone who hasn’t heard it yet?
„The Awakening“ is a collection of songs that each have a separate life and story behind them. A power prog album that has a little something in it for everyone. Riff oriented metal with a few heartfelt additions to round out this amazing album.
The album was recorded by a different line up than that which actually makes up the band. How come?
This album was a collaboration between Richard Marks (Lead Guitars, Bass), Jim Fox (Guitars) and myself. It wasn’t until later that we pulled drummer Patrick Johansson, Ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, Ex-WASP, into the mix once again to complete the recording of the album. It wasn’t until later that we actually put together what is now the current line up. Vocals: Wade Black, Lead Guitar: Richard Marks, Rhythm Guitar: Ryan Bales, Bass: Kyle Sokol, Drums: Luka Stone
Would you say that there’s a touch of progressiveness in ASTRONOMICA’S music with regard to the arrangements and song structures?
Absolutely. I am a huge fan of prog music. We as a band are heavily influenced by prog in some ways. We take the progressiveness of our music and mix it with a splash of heaviness. Bam…
How does songwriting in this band work?
My writing partner, Richard Marks writes the music and arrangements. He then sends me the songs. I do what I do with it vocally. Then we blend our ideas until the finished product is completed.
Are ASTRONOMICA a touring band?
Definitely. We just got back from a 2 week tour in Greece, starting at Up the Hammers Festival in Athens and finishing up at Horns Up Festival in Trikala. The 2024 Set Hellas on Fire Tour was a great success and we cannot wait to get back on the road in 2025.
You were (and are) the singer of a great number of different bands at the same time. How does that work? Are there no scheduling conflicts?
Different opportunities come and go. Life happens. Sometimes it just doesn’t work. I am very honored and blessed to have been a part of such great bands. But Astronomica is my home. I do not have to go and sing for anyone else’s band anymore. This is where I belong.
Is the increased cost of touring an issue for ASTRONOMICA?
Of course it is. The same as it is for most bands out there these days. We just self-funded our Set Hellas on Fire Greece tour. And let’s just say it wasn’t cheap.
Lately there’s been quite a heated discussion about the use of AI in music, mostly for the creation of artwork but also for entire songwriting ideas. What’s your take on this topic?
Real music comes from deep within our souls. AI can write the music but they will never truly feel it. Nothing will ever replace the human contribution in the songwriting process.
Thank you for the interview! Please let us do a short brainstorming at the end of this interview. What comes in your mind first reading the following terms:
Power Metal: Iron Maiden
Live Album: Metal Church Live
Election year: No Comment.
Merch Cut: Sux
ASTRONOMICA in 10 years: Still melting faces around the world!!
Once again thanks for your time. The last words are yours – is there anything left you want to tell our readers?
I just want to let you guys know that I think about every one of you every single night when I go to bed. Without you guys, we are nothing. Thank you for all your support through the years. Hope to see you on tour soon!!
28. April 2024 Thomas Meyns
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