In a recent interview, DARKTHRONE's Ted "Nocturno Culto" Skjellum opens up about his new heavy rock project, AVRAK, and the creative process behind it. This project, a collaboration with Anders Hegna of NØD, EL KAYENNE, and SVIDD GREVLING, has been a labor of love for Skjellum, who describes it as a "milestone" in his musical career.
Skjellum and Hegna, having known each other for over a decade, decided to take a leap of faith and create something new. Their cabin retreat in the mountains became a crucible for their creativity, where they locked themselves away for five days, experimenting with their unique musical styles. Skjellum, a fan of old-school heavy metal, and Hegna, with a more modern rock influence, found a harmonious blend in their music, creating a chaotic yet captivating sound.
The album, recorded in February, showcases this fusion of styles, with Skjellum's metal guitar sound and Hegna's rock influences intertwining. Skjellum emphasizes the challenge of balancing these different elements, stating that it requires a lot of time and attention to detail. Despite the difficulties, the process has been rewarding, and the album is set for release this autumn.
AVRAK's live debut in April was a success, with Skjellum expressing enthusiasm for the band's future. He highlights the importance of live performances in the music industry, and with a great band dynamic, AVRAK is poised for further success. The project's success is a testament to Skjellum's versatility and his ability to create something new and exciting.
In contrast to DARKTHRONE's style, AVRAK leans towards classic heavy metal and hard rock, with a touch of doom and black metal. Skjellum's appreciation for the '80s heavy metal scene, particularly the European variety, influences this sound. He believes that the '80s heavy metal scene was a unique blend of optimism and darkness, setting it apart from its American counterpart.
DARKTHRONE's latest album, 'Pre-Historic Metal', released on May 8 via Peaceville Records, further showcases their evolution. The band, known for their pioneering sound, continues to push boundaries, distilling various genres into their own unique style. With a rich history and a dedicated fan base, DARKTHRONE remains a force to be reckoned with in the metal world.
Skjellum's journey with AVRAK is a testament to his artistic growth and his willingness to explore new horizons. As the project gains traction, it will be fascinating to see how it evolves and influences the metal scene. With his passion and dedication, Skjellum is sure to create something memorable, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
