Thursday, February 27, 2014

Van Canto Interview

Extreme Underground Music Zine
Anwers by Stefan, February 27th, 2014

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new album?

Yes of course. We started our Tour in Russia and had two fabulous shows in Moskau and St. Petersburg. And we already kicked of the first leg of our European Tour in France, Belgium and Germany. Next gigs will be Italy and Czech Republic. The tour is well visited, some locations are sold out, it’s great.

2.Recently you have released a new album, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical direction do the new recording and also how does it differ from your past releases?

This time we had the time to work out everything quite detailed because we haven’t been on tour while writing the songs. It’s our most compact album and we have the feeling there are no weak songs on it.

3.The band does not use traditional instruments, do you feel this adds to the originality of the music?

Yes of course. It definitely helps to have a unique sound, and we are proud of having created something really special.

4.Can you tell us a little bit more about the lyrical topics and subjects you explore with your newer music?

Van Canto is a band to encourage people. We want our listeners to feel like a hero. So our songs deal with topics like inner strength, belief in yourself and in what you do. It’s hero metal a cappella!

5.On the new album you had some cover tunes, what was the decision behind doing your own version of these songs?

Covers have always been a part of Van Canto and we always try to make the covers our own songs. We have to like what we are covering and the originals have to offer some great melodies and harmonies so the songs can be translated into a cappella arrangements.

6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Van Canto'?

Canto is latin for “I sing” and the Van just makes the bandname look better, haha.

7.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?

We have a very powerful stage performance and many people are surprised of how metal the show is. We had hundreds of shows so it’s hard to pick one, but Wacken 2011 surely was special. We put this show on the bonus DVD of our Dawn of the Brave album

8.What are the touring or show plans for the new release?

As I said, we are just about to tour Europe. After that we will play some selected festivals and then see what happens.

9.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of metal and rock?
Great, and it get’s better all the time, especially with this release. We get a lot of response from all over the world, sell more albums and get in contact with more people. It’s great.

10.What musical direction do you see the band heading into during the future?

We don’t know. Currently we are in the “on the road”-mode. So after we played the tour and the festivals we’ll sit together and create some ideas what will be next.

11.What are some bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your newer music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

Every bandmember would name different bands, so I can only give a personal answer. My faves are the bands we have been covering, as easy as it is, haha.

12.What are some of your non musical interests?

Again, a personal answer. I am interested in soccer and biking and of course in my family.

13.Before we wrap up this interview do you have any final words or thoughts?

Thanks for your interest in Van Canto. It’s always amazing that there are people around I never met but that want to know about our band. Great!

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