Interviews: Baelfyr

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Blackened Death Metal band Baelfyr from the UK. Check out the interview and follow this band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or did it just come out like that?

When we formed the band, we were initially writing a lot about English folklore and we needed a name that suited that style, we started looking into old English and came across the word Baelfyr, meaning a sacrificial fire, we liked it and it fit well, even when we moved away from that style of writing.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

The raw aggression of the genre is really cathartic, therapeutic in a way, and provides a much-needed release.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

No, the band was actually formed from an online ad, we all met up in the pub and talked about influences and what exactly we were hoping to achieve, of course, we didn’t actually know each other very well at this point and creative differences came about which resulted in some changes of members, but we’ve got a solid lineup now and we’re making amazing progress.

4. Each band member's favourite band?

Allan – Woods of Ypres

Zak – VOLA

Harry – Firespawn

Lorraine – Insomnium

Tom - Sylosis

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Our songs are inspired by personal and social issues; we tackle subjects such as mental health, abuse, human suffering, and the state of the world around us.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was at the Victoria Inn, Derby with Primal Damnation, it was another new venue for us, and we’d be eager to return

7. Where would you like to play?

We’re aiming high with our aspirations, we’re doing the New Blood Stage at Bloodstock, but one day we’d love to be able to make it to the main stage and some of the European festivals, Hellfest, Wacken, Brutal Assault, etc

8. Who would you like to support?

Securing a support slot with one of our main influences would be amazing, we’re playing the New Blood Stage at Bloodstock Festival this year, so we’ll be in the vicinity of some absolute Legends like Obituary and Emperor, it’s not supporting, but for now it’s close enough for us.

9. Who not?

In general, we’re pretty open to playing with anyone, we’d only draw the line at bands that have no connection at all to rock and metal

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

We can’t say we suffer from stage fright; we’re always excited to get on stage and play. The only advice we can give is to go out there, do what comes naturally, and try and project confidence, even if that’s not what you feel inside.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

We’ve all got our individual influences, but as a group we’re influenced by a mix of American and European black and death metal styles, a bit of melodeath, and the general UK attitude towards heavy music.

12. What’s the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

No weird requests yet, but we’ve been asked for signed setlists

13. What do you think of your fans?

We love our fans, obviously we’re fairly new, the fanbase is small but, from what we’ve experienced so far, they’re really dedicated, some have travelled to see us, we’ve seen people turn up at multiple shows in different cities and they’re always willing to support by buying merch.

14. What do you think of our site?

It’s great that you pay attention to smaller artists with in-depth reviews, interviews, and features; more people should help out the underground; tomorrow’s big artists could be just starting out now and need the help.

15. Something to add?

Just to encourage everyone to go and visit our socials, follow us everywhere, listen to our music, and if you come out to a gig someday, please come and say hi, we’re always happy to chat with the fans.