Interview with Hunters Moon

Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions and let’s get started:

Infernal Masquerade: What was the main reason behind the formation of Hunters Moon?

Back when I was playing with Denouncement Pyre, new ideas began to emerge that did not fit under the DP banner. Subsequently I decided to form a new band/project that encompassed the ideas and the sound of Hunters Moon. It didn’t take long for the band to take up most of my time.

I.M: Hunters Moon has very old-school Bathory like sound, why did you decided to go this way with the band’s music?

We never set out with the aim of being a Bathory cover band. There is no hiding that we are both fans of Bathory, and although parts of our songs definitely have a Bathory-esque vibe, it was never our primary intention. The influence and sound of the songs for the full length release are broader and the sound has gradually steered away from the Bathory inspired sound that people have come to expect.

I.M: “The Serpents Lust” is the band’s first official release. Can you tell us more about the concept or ideas behind the album?

Actually there was a demo that preceded The Serpents Lust recording. In comparison to the demo, the mLP is a bit of a leap in terms of sound and execution. When the demo was released, the music and sound was still in its seminal stages. The Serpents Lust a truer representation of what Hunters Moon sound like. I wrote the songs for the mLP over the last few years. I culled songs that did not fit in with the overall concept of the release. The drum tracks were laid down in February 2008, but it took quite sometime to complete the rest of the release since I handle all the other instruments myself. The mLP was recorded at Burning Leather studios, notorious for recording other bands such as Denouncement Pyre, Nocturnal Graves and some more obscure projects. Once the tracks were finished I handed them over to decaylust to make his lyrical contributions. I usually work alone and then we will collaborate at the end.

I.M: What are you guys planning to achieve with Hunters Moon?

We set out to write music that is reminiscent of the spirit of the old black metal bands, both in terms of production and musically. Since we are both fans of this ancient sound, we aim to produce music that embodies it wholly. I am not a fan of the quantity over quality approach that some bands seem to have adopted. I don’t see the point releasing 50 7”’s in a year if they’re all shit. We will release music at our own pace and then undoubtedly fade into oblivion. 

I.M: Have you guys started thinking about the new album?

Definitely. In fact, more than half of it is already written and demoed. The line up will probably be different on this release, but the alliance between Decaylust and I will remain.

I.M: Being from Australia, how is the scene over there? We get a few Aussie bands but I image there are plenty more.

The scene here is pretty average. If you like mediocre, watered down, hybrid ‘metal’, then feast. Otherwise, there is not much interesting to offer here. With this in mind there are still a few bands that keep the flame burning. For example, Cauldron Black Ram, Nocturnal Graves, Denouncement Pyre, Stargazer, Ignivomous, Order of Orias etc. However, bands like these are few and far between. Quality live shows are practically non existent.

I.M: Since the band formed the Internet and technology has evolved enough to make music more accessible, easier to record and as the downside piracy has flourished, what is your opinion on this? Do you think these things had a positive impact on the scene, or do you think it has tainted the scene?

Like anything, it has its pros and cons. The promotion and communication side of this is very appealing. Technology has made it easier for our music to spread overseas and keep in contact with people interested in our music. On the other hand, it took only 2 days for the mini album to end up on torrent sites. Pretty dismal considering the CD only costs $8 from HHR. Despite this, I can’t say I really care all that much since it conjures more interest in the band.

I.M: If you guys had unlimited money for a live performance, what props and stage set up would you use?

I think an expensive stage show for this style of music would only serve to cheapen it.

I.M: Anything else you want to add for your fans and our readers?

Thanks for the interview and the support. Those of you, who haven’t picked up a copy of The Serpents Lust, get in touch with Hells Headbangers Records (www.hellsheadbangers.com) and pick up a copy. Stay tuned for our upcoming full length mid near year.

I.M: Thanks for answering the questions and good luck with the new album promotion.