Interview with Byron, one of the first I've done... '96 I think, however between 'A Black Moon' (one of the best epic black metal albums, according to me) and 'Starfire Burning...'

One year after 'A black moon...', how has been the reactions to this album?
Aye, it is now over a year since the release of our debut album 'A Black Moon Broods Over Lemuria', and the response to it has been excellent... we have been most satisfied with the reception of the album, and we certainiy appreciate all our supporters. Hail!

Are you satisfied with your label, Cacophonous
Although there were some problems in the past, such as the label taking a full year to release our debut, we are now very satisfied with the work of Cacophonous. The label has undergone a recent transtormation into a much more efficient entity, and the distribution of releases has greatly improved, and I think that Cacophonous is now one of the best extreme music labels around.

How can you describe your music?
We are the Barbarian Metal Kings... the lords of dark symphonic fantasy music... All hail Bal-Sagoth!

Which are your main influences? And your favourite bands?
The musical influences of the band are very wideranging and diverse... my favourite bands are Bathory, Celtic Frost, Sabbat, and others, whereas Jonny likes the Police, for instance. We also hail to classical music, such as the works of Wagner, Holst, Stravinsky, etc, and also we draw inspiration from some folk music and epėc film soundtracks. There are many influences for Bal-Sagoth.

The name 'Bal Sagoth' is taken from a R. E. Howard's story, isn't it? Which are your favorite writers? Do you read only 'classic' fantasy (Tolkien, Lovecraft...) or do you like even the 'modern one' (Wagner,...)?
Yes, I took the name Bal-Sagoth from the story by Robert E. Howard entitled "The Gods Of Bal-Sagoth", first published in 1931. The name also has connections with the works of Lovecraft. And indeed, amongst my favourite authors are Howard, Lovecraft, Tolkien, and I also hail to the works of Shakespeare, and a myriad other writers & poets whose works span the centuries.

You call yourself Heathen. What does it mean exactly? Do you belive in the real being of gods and divinites or they are only symbols?
I am indeed a heathen... I hail to the old gods and goddesses of this island, the deities of my pagan ancestors. I do believe in the real existence of the gods, I am fervently proud of my faith, and I pledge my soul, flesh and steel to my gods eternally. And that is all I will say on the matter.

In Your photos and live shows you use a sword. Have you evere seen the sword as a phallic symbol?
It is true that many cuitures throughout the ages have regarded the sword, amongst many other things, as a phallic symbol. To me the sword has a special significance in many ways, it is relevant in a personal way, in a spiritual and religious way, and also in respect to my culture and warrior heritage. Aye, to stand upon the battlefieid, with a finely balanced yard of cold northern steel in hand! In terms of the band ėtself, the sword also symbolizes our image and our intent. Blood and iron!

The main topics in your lyrics are war and battles. What do you think about the Army?
Yes, my lyrics do indeed deal with war and battle to a great extent as I am proud of my warrior beritage... the blood of many warrior races runs through my veins. The battle-lust is always upon me, and I have always been very interested in war and battle throughout history. The warrior-spirit is with me eternally (in Sicily we use to call this: to be a 'sciarrino'. And to answer your question: it is of course important for a nation to have an army to defend itself against those who would aspire to be its enemies.

Do you think that black metal is only a kind of music or also a 'philosophy', a way of life?
Music is about emotion, and black metal certainly is a darkly passionate form of music, it is a dark art with powerful and extreme emotions surging at its centre, and it is these passions which define the intent and embody the essence of black metal, more so than any other form of music. I think only people who experience and embrace their dark and powerful emotions on whichever subject and who hold a certain outlook on life can truly understand and embrace the true power and essence of black metal. Music without passion is worthless and empty.

Do you know any Italian bands?
Yes, I know of many Italian bands. The Italian scene is indeed strong, and we hope to play some shows over there sometime soon.

Planes for the future?
Galactic domination.. we shall ascend the thrones of sovereign mastery and reign immortal over all the universe!

What about your new recording?
Yes, we have recently completed the recording of our second album, and it will be released in early November by Cacophonous Retords. The new album is entitled 'Starfire Burning Upon The Ice-Veiled Throne Of Ultima Thule', and it is a dark and fantastic journey into the eon-veiled realms beyond, the ultimate voyage into the darkest reaches of the imagination. The album will also feature a bonus CD ROM track, and long-sleeved T-shirts will be available just prior to the release. We intend to tour extensively, beginning with a headlining festival date in Belgium on November l6th. Those wishing more information on merchandise, touring, etc. are advised to contact Cacophonous in London for details. The saga continues... the return of Bal-Sagoth is nigh!

Last war cry...
All those who would march into battle with us 'neath our war banner, victory awaits! Blodu Ok Jarna! All hail the Barbarian Metal Kings... all hail Bal-Sagoth!