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Interview
Deutsche VersionInterview mit Falconer (18.10.2006)
HH: Hi! How are you? How is the promotion for the new cd Northwind going?
Stefan: I'm fine thanks. I have a lot of interviews at the moment but on the other side I knew it was coming.
HH: What kind of reactions did achieve already? Are you satisfied with them?
Stefan: For the most part I am satisfied. Most reviews have been really good so far. Finally it seems like some fans will let go of the holiness of the first album and accept that this one is better. Feels very good, I was afraid for a while that the debut would already have gotten that cult status that never could be overcome no matter how good the new album might be.
HH: Unfortunately the promo-cd was sent without lyrics. What are the songs about? Can you tell us something about the message?
Stefan: Well, a lot of people think that we write about the medieval days etc. The majority of the songs are actually about topics from the present day like, the war in Iraq, bimbos in reality soaps, computer games. I always try to describe it in a more medieval/fantasy style by using that kind of words and language. Because just writing tales is too boring, I have to try to express something to make it more fun.
HH: You've been through several personal changes. Is the new line-up strong enough for the future?
Stefan: According to me it is. I am certain that I will not do anything to change this line up. Of course things can change and people can leave by themselves, but I won't be a part of it. I think that things have been turbulent enough through the last years.
HH: Your started with Mithotyn years ago. If you compare the music business in the past with the business today, would you again start a career as an artist?
Stefan: Start it today you mean? Hmmm, yes I would. Although the situation... the business have changed a bit I still think that it's worth it. As long as you don't lose money it's ok. After all I see this as a hobby that won't get me rich.
HH: What makes you angry in the music business?
Stefan: When it comes to certain instances of the business it feels like some people think it's quite ok to ask us to do this or that in order to make money of course. The thing is that if someone else want to make money on us I will just refuse it if we will lose money on doing it. It seems like they can use our work and creativity in order to make money for themselves. You got to have some pride in yourself and not being exploited. That pisses me off.
HH: Now, a few days after the release, is there allready something you would like to change on Northwind?
Stefan: No, and that's the first time that has happened. I usually want to change things rather quick after the recording is done but this time I am utterly satisfied. Yes, I know it's partly a bad thing because I haven't really found new inspiration to do better.
HH: What about a tour through Europe or Germany? When can we expect Falconer live on stage?
Stefan: I surely hope for some live gigs next summer. Tours is just out of the question as we have got the best singer in the world back. It's hard for him to find the time to do tours. I am actually fine with that since I prefer superb albums and less live instead of the other way around. Live for us will be summer festivals and occasional single shows. Have we ever played a lot live?
HH: What do you think about the internet. In your eyes, is it a nuisance or a blessing?
Stefan: It's not a blessing. For touring bands they might gain some more sales on merchandise and tickets for shows. For Falconer I only see a loss of sales, a fan who never buys an album contributes nothing to us. Of course I appreciate them all for loving the music but recording budgets, merchandise products and promotion etc will only decline if the record label can't see that there is a market for the albums or merchandise.
HH: I think your music today is quite different to your music on your debut 2001. Where do you want to go with Falconer musically?
Stefan: Personally I would love to go further into the direction of Therion and Blackmore's Night. Skip all double bass drums and cut down on the metal and increase the folk/medieval/classical touch. On the other hand we are five guys in the band and we have fans who we can't disappoint too much. So I think I will continue writing for both of us.
HH: It is now four years ago that Mathias decided to leave the band. And now, he's back. Does he now have the time to take part on tours etc?
Stefan: No, and I don't care. We've been able to do tours for four years and... meanwhile we did albums that wasn't as good. Well I think the last one was good but I felt it being a bit too far from my own will and personal taste. Anyway, as we decided to go back to our own sound I knew Mathias would be perfect for it. The result is that the albums get great and that's my first priority. Tours are to me just a bonus.
HH: How would you describe your music to a foreigner, who never heard Metal before?
Stefan: Think of a very melodic song with folk influences played by a skinny guy. Now think of the same song but played by a hairy bodybuilder.
HH: What new bands are worth to be mentioned in your point of view?
Stefan: Honestly no one. The ones I discover are older bands like Saracen and Ten. I have tried to listen on some newer folk metal bands but I just think there are not enough good melodies for my taste.
HH: Thanks for answering my questions, the last words are up to you.
Stefan: Thank you for having an interest. My last word is: Blümchen!