Cor Scorpii pour la démo "Attergangar"

Many aspects of your music are similar to the one made by Windir. What do you
think about it? (info: I am a big fan of Windir so I m not just saying that
because it’s folk black metal with keyboard in the case you don’t agree)

I think we have brought some elements of Windir’s music into Cor Scorpii, mainly the melodic aspect and the guitar harmonies. There are not that much folk influences, but quite a bit of classical music in our compositions. We make the kind of music we like, and naturally there is some resemblance to our previous bands. I don’t really mind that, but I think the fans will realize that there are quite a few differences when they listen to the music. People seem to have difficulties finding other bands to compare us with, and I’m pleased with that.

With members being part of Vreid, do you see Cor Scorpii as a side project for
“free time” or an active band? I mean for example you have delayed the mix of
Attergangar due to Vreid being in studio, and they also plan to tour a lot…

It is definitely not a side project. The only member that is also in Vreid, is our drummer, Jørn. The other members can concentrate fully on Cor Scorpii. The reason why we had to delay the mix was that we spent longer time on the recording process than we thought we would. When we were ready to mix, Vreid was about to start the recording of their new album. As they own the studio, it was hard to argue with that decision.

You are working on new material: can we expect an album soon?

We will probably sign a deal with a label in the near future. If things work out as we want, we should be able to release an album at the end of the year or early next year. We have quite a bit of new material now, and it will be satisfying to start recording again.

Any touring plan in Europe? It might be “early” to think about it but since Vreid
is touring it could be a good way to promote Cor Scorpii no?

Touring is something we want do, but it’s a bit early after just one demo. We might do a few shows this year if the opportunity knocks, but nothing is planned yet. Touring with Vreid would be fucking awesome, as they are great guys and a great band. It would definitely help us promote the band, and it would be a massive orgy of alcohol abuse and madness.

Do you think that the mp3 and P2P network in general can be a good way to promote
a band not very popular?

It is a good way to reach a lot of people. If the music is good enough, bands will get noticed; otherwise they will drown because there are so many bands around. Smaller bands might as well embrace modern technology, and try to benefit from it.

What do you think of the metal scene in your country at the moment? And of the international metal scene?

In general, I’m not too fond of all the “back to basics”-bands that have emerged the last couple of years. It tends to be a lot of copycats, trying to recreate the “magic” of the early nineties, without having the ability (or the desire) to add something fresh. I’m not saying that everything has to be original, but I would like to see some identity in a new band. I also have an impression that there are too many concerts and tours, leading to bands playing for very few people. At least this is a problem in Oslo, as even famous bands struggle to fill smaller venues. Maybe one should think more quality both when it comes to releases and concerts. Of course, variety and choice is a good thing, but still…

I have always been very much into the Norwegian scene. I think there is something special about the atmosphere, especially in the releases of the nineties. Unfortunately, many of the greatest Norwegian bands are disbanded. Immortal, Emperor (even though they have started moving again), Limbonic Art, Obtained Enslavement and so on are hard acts to follow. However, I think there are still a lot of good bands. The new Keep of Kalessin album will destroy most releases this year. As for the international scene, there seems to be bands coming from every corner of the world these days. This is often refreshing, as bands can incorporate elements from their own cultural and musical heritage. I find a lot of interesting bands from both southern and eastern parts of Europe.

What are you listening to these days?

I listen to a lot of the classics and bands that I’m familiar with. It is easier to stick with what you know is good, rather than going through hundreds of shitty bands to find something interesting. Having said that, I also try to stay updated on new bands. I prefer bands that in some way push boundaries within the metal genre, and not stick to the good old formula. If I was to mention a few bands, I’d say that Emperor, Shining, Arcturus, Drudkh, Keep of Kalessin, Deathspell Omega and Watain are played regularly these days.

Anything to add?

Thanks for the interview. Be sure to check out www.corscorpii.net for updates on future releases. Hope to see everyone on tour in the future. And remember, kids; booze may ruin your body, but it keeps your mind vital!