In Corona Corner, we are asking musicians how the outbreak has effected them, how did they adapt to the situation, what did they learn. In front of Balkanian Barbaric Black Metal band Zvijer, Knjaz speaks about his days spent in isolation.
Hi! How are you doing during corona outbreak?
Hi Metal Jacket Magazine! I am doing great these days. Due the fact that I am living outside of the town and that I have freedom to walk through the forest which is nearby my home… I am doing really great during this pandemic state in the world.
What have you cancelled/postponed due coronavirus?
We had minor setback in vocal recording process. I had plans to went in Sarajevo, in studio to finish’em up, but now we are working them in improvised studio. They will be finished and we are good to go.
How the global coronavirus pandemic is directly impacting bands?
You know, gigs are cancelled, tours are also cancelled, so a lot of bands lost their money and investments there. So that can be a major fuck-up for bands, especially for smaller bands.
How are you keeping your fans during this chaotic period?
Due the fact that we are smaller and underground black metal band, people who are keeping their tap on our new music are always there. We are not doing anything special beside that we’re working on final touches of a new album and to give fans some new music in due time.
What will metal look like when we re-emerge from isolation?
Oh, that is tough one. I don’t know. The scene and the bands that I am following, will not change that much. Underground’s going nowhere even in pandemic time, and it will not be moved after this whirlwind of chaos.
Who will suffer the most after all: musicians, organizers, promoters…
I think that I can say that we are all have our fair share of suffering. Each of us, taking this on his/her own way. Musicians are eager to go back in the studios or tours. Organizers are eager to work some new tours and make some money spinning. Promoters are in for some new festivals. It is no secret that on some individual ways mainstream, underground and whole music indsutry and scene will suffer some set-backs. Time will tell who suffered the most.
What is your isolation soundtrack?
I would leave this three albums like my soundtracks for an isolation time:
1) The Cure – Pornography
2) Marduk – Heaven Shall Burn… When We Are Gathered
3) Tom Waits – Rain Dogs
Besides gigs, what/whom do you miss the most?
To be totally honest with you, I don’t miss a lot of things which are connected to music. I don’t even miss gigs. I am in a daily connection with my band mates, so all is good on that side.
Do you have any rehearsals during quarantine? If yes, how do they look like?
We are not making any rehearsals. So from that point of view I can’t give any of answers.
Thank you so much for your time. Stay safe!
Thank you for the questions and your time!
“When the sky turns black and the sun fails… the Beast will bear the mark of might OVER DEATH ! ! !”
