Greetings, Peter. How are you doing? First, let’s talk about the new album—The New Light. This album seems to be connected with the 10th anniversary of the band. Can we call The New Light a kind of a report on the last 10 years?
Yes, I guess that could be a way of viewing it. I have mixed old unreleased songs, songs of alternative recordings, new remixes and new songs. You can hear how the sound of Arcana has grown from the first sounds to what it is today.
What has laid foundation for this album? Were these the medieval themes?
No, not at all. It doesnt have any theme at all, just my songs over the years.
Did you ever consider writing more modern music? It is true that medieval music and themes have ample past but they have no future; that is this music does not develop. Bringing new sounds into such music deprives it of its medieval sound; it becomes a some kind of a mix. What do you think about it?
I don't consider Arcana medieval, maybe in the beginning, but not now. I have put more voices in the songs and I am exploring the arabic sound nowadays. And about doing more modern music, it depends on what you meen. I do play in other bands, and that is far away from the music I make with Arcana. But i would not concider do "MTV-music". That is nothing for me.
Does the music of Arcana convey solely your ideas, thoughts, feeling or other participants of the band also contribute to it?
I do 99% of the music and lyrics. I get help with ideas from the other ones as well. Ann-Mari has written one lyric on the "Inner pale sun"-album and Stefan has helped out with the instruments. We do talk, but I do mostly everything.
Do your everyday emotional experiences find their reflections in the music of Arcana?
Ofcourse. When my daughter was born I wrote Innocent child, I wrote We rise above to my wife. Allmost all songs have some connection to my state of mind and my environment.
Do you have education in the field of music?
No, but I have played guitarr since I was 9 years old. I am selftrained when it comes to programming and instruments in all. I want to learn more instruments everyday, and i buy new musical equipment as often as I can afford to. Now i am learning the Armenian Duduk.
Usually, your muse visits you when you are in what kind of mood?
Well, hard to say. I often get an idea, and have to start emediatelly. It is like an avalange, the music just rolls over me. Suddenly, several hours have past and a song is made.
Do you visit theatres? Operas? If yes, then what impressed you most?
When me and my wife lived in Stockholm we went to the opera once. I am sorry to say that we didnt find the time to visit it more. At that time we saw Mozart's "The Magic Flute" and it was an expreience. wonderful music and beautiful environment. The Stockholm opera is from the early 18th century and it is very beautiful. I am not so much for theatres, especially not musicals, but of course it would be nice to see a play at the theater sometime.
Tell us a bit about your label. How old is it? Is it possible for any band to get a deal with you or you sign bands playing approximately in the same style?
I started Erebus Odora back in 2001. I have released 5 items on the label so far. For the time being it is only my own projekts and a friend of mine, Microman. I will start releasing other bands as well later on, but I dont know when. I have to gain a profit first to get the finances for a release. I will not be a "pure industrial" label. if I like a band and see some potential in it, I hope to release it.
How do you like to spend your free time?
With my family and friends. I like to spend time with my daughter, have a few beers with my friends. I read books, watch movies and i love to cook. I guess I am like any other man in general:)
Before finishing up this interview, would you please tell the fans of Arcana a couple of words.
I have already started to make music for the next album. When it will be released, I dont know, but hopefully early next year. Thank you for listening to our music.
ThyDoom team would like to thank you for this interview and wishes you every success!
