Interviews About Albums: Neptune - End Of Time (2025)

In this new interview, we sat down with the Swedish Melodic Metal band Neptune to ask questions about their album, "End Of Time".

1. What can you say about this new EP/CD?

Tosh: The album End of Time is heavier and more powerful than our previous release, Northern Steel, while still staying true to the core of our melodic and classic ‘80s metal sound. Creating this album was a natural step for us, and we were determined to take whatever time was necessary to get it right. We put together nearly 25 songs and then voted on them, selecting only two or three at a time to begin production. This approach allowed us to ensure we were heading in the right direction. I remember that the first song I wanted to build the production around was Revenge—there was something in the demo that I really wanted to capture.

2. What is the meaning of the EP/CD name?

Tosh: The meaning behind the album title End of Time has several explanations. On one hand, the band has such a long history that, despite our extended hiatus, we could see this album as our final one and feel at peace with that. Whether that will actually be the case remains to be seen, but the band has existed since the early ‘80s. The other meaning relates to the uncertainty of the world today. At the same time, the title fits naturally within the album’s themes, as it tells the story of the last great Viking adventure. R.I.P. Harald Hardrada.

3. Which one is the composer of the CD/EP?

Tosh: We all contribute to the songwriting on the album, even though, in practice, we sometimes write songs entirely on our own. For example, Row writes most of the lyrics, while those of us who play instruments handle much of the music. However, we all give input and shape the songs together, including in the production process. It creates an interesting mix when everyone brings ideas to the table. On this album, for the first time, we worked with an external lyricist and topliner—but only for one song, Metal Hearts (Linda Sonnvik), after she approached us with the idea.

4. If you have to pick one song, which one would you pick?

Tosh: This is one of those questions that would get different answers depending on who in the band you ask, what day it is, and what mood we’re in. In other words, it’s almost impossible to answer—so I’ll have to pass on this one.

5. Is there a special message in this EP/CD? If there is what it is?

Tosh: There isn’t a specific official message behind the album as such, but it is built around a story of the last Viking, sometimes as fiction, sometimes based on real events. So, it’s more of a narrative than a message. However, we do have the title End of Time, which, as we’ve mentioned before, can be connected to the uncertainty in the world today.

6. Are there some lyrics that you´d love to share?

Row Alex: In that case, Motherland and Highlands. Both lyrics are meant to give the feeling of what the old Nordic warriors felt when they were constantly on the move and far from home: a longing to return to their homeland and loved ones. This is something we ourselves can relate to, as almost everyone in the band has traveled around the world; one of us still does so to a very high degree.

7. Which inspirations have been important for this album? Like musically or friends, family, someone you'd love to thank especially?

Tosh: The inspiration from our previous album, Northern Steel, is quite evident. We received such great reviews for that album, and at the same time, we felt confident that we could match it with a new effort. Of course, we also have a number of bands that have influenced us, almost exclusively from the ‘80s era. We’re talking about Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, but also bands like Magnum and Pretty Maids, among others. Last but not least, we always keep our raven, Ray Alex RIP, in our thoughts—our original singer, who has inspired us and remains with us on this journey.

8. Something to add?

Anders: Yes, more and more bands are choosing to release their music solely in digital format, meaning only for streaming services. There’s nothing wrong with that—it makes sense in today’s music landscape, where streaming is the dominant way people consume music. However, we come from the old school, and for us, the physical format still holds a special place. So far, we’ve chosen to release our music both digitally and physically—on CD as well as vinyl. We also love the collectability and tactile experience of vinyl, which is why we’ve even put out a limited-edition blue vinyl version for those who appreciate something extra special.