Interview - SOULSKINNER
If you aren't familar with Soulskinner, see here.
This interview is with Bill Zobolas (guitarist and songwriter).
1. Descent to Abaddon was one of the best death albums of 2017, how has the response been?
The response has been really great. The reviews and the messages we have received from fans have been excellent, and that gives us great strength. It means a lot to us that people are responding well to our musical vision, and this is something that we have seen more and more with every release.
2. Crypts of Ancient Wisdom was also a great album, did you feel a lot of pressure going into the new one with the bar set so high?
The truth is that each of our releases is better than the previous one. This is because we mature as musicians, but it also happens because we have not pressured ourselves on any album. As the main composer of the band, I write music to indulge my own tastes, and this is why I do not feel pressure. The composition of the music is for me something that should give joy and produce positive emotions, not pressure, anxiety or other negative emotions. What Soulskinner will always bring is truth.
3. Who does your artwork? It’s excellent.
Artwork for the last two albums, and a couple of EPs we released in recent years, was made by Mark Riddick. He's a great artist, personal friend for many years, and also a fan of the band. He has really given us what we wanted - for the art to tie in with the music and lyrics.
4. Is there a death metal ‘scene’ where you guys live?
Of course! Greece has always had a strong scene, but in recent years the local bands are excellent and very strong. There are amazing bands in all sub-genres of death metal. Check it out!
5. It’s a clichéd question, but who are your main influences (if indeed you feel you have influences)?
Our favourite death metal bands are mostly old bands like Death, Malevolent Creation, Bolt Thrower, Incubus, Benediction, Asphyx, Cancer, Obituary, Possessed, and many more. Also we like thrash bands like Slayer, Sodom, Destruction etc - mainly ‘80s bands. All of these sounds have influenced us.
6. Do you have any future plans which you can share with us?
Our plan is always the same - play as much as we can, for as long as possible; release good albums, meaningful lyrics and music; and play live shows wherever we can, to feel the energy of the fans.
7. Is there any chance you’ll be playing in the UK any time soon?
We really would like that, but at the moment there are no plans. I hope in the future we can find a promoter that can bring us in the UK, to make some hell for you guys!
