Interviews About Albums: Ron Coolen - Past Forward (2025)

In this new interview, we sat down with the Dutch Heavy Metal artist, Ron Coolen, to ask questions about his album "Past Foward". 

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

Past Forward is my first EP after two full-length albums. It contains five hard rock and heavy metal reinterpretations of pop songs that have meant a lot to me over the years. Songs by Duffy, Muse, Japan, Bjork, and Jamiroquai. These are not one-to-one covers, but fully reworked versions with new arrangements, dynamics, and energy. For me, this EP was about rediscovering inspiration, experimenting freely, and letting the music evolve without a fixed plan. I played rhythm guitar, drums, and keyboards. Chris Clancy is taking care of all vocals. On lead guitar, you hear Timo Somers and Cheza Taylor, and on bass, it’s Hans Pieters and Steve Wilikin. Hans also mixed the album.

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

The title Past Forward is a playful reference to time and movement. The songs I chose all have strong roots in my past and personal history, but by reimagining them now, they also represent moving forward creatively. It’s about honoring where you come from while continuing to grow as an artist.

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

The original songs were written by their respective composers, but all arrangements and reinterpretations on Past Forward are my own. I completely reworked the songs musically to fit my sound and vision, turning them into something new while respecting the essence of the originals.

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

That’s a difficult choice, but I would probably pick “Mercy.” It’s dedicated to my daughter, which gives it deep emotional meaning for me. It also features an amazing guest guitar solo by Cheza Taylor, whose youthful energy and talent perfectly match the spirit of the song.

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

The main message is that music can evolve without losing its soul. Past Forward shows that songs from different genres and eras can be reinterpreted in a heavy context while still carrying emotion and meaning. On a personal level, it’s also about reconnecting with inspiration and allowing creativity to flow naturally.

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

Since these are cover songs, the lyrics already existed, but lines from “Mercy” resonate strongly with me because of the dedication behind the song. The emotional weight of the words took on a new meaning once I connected them to my own life and family.

7. Which inspirations have been important for this album? Musically or personally?

Musically, I was inspired by the idea of transformation, taking songs far outside the rock or metal world and reshaping them. Personally, my family played a big role, as several songs are dedicated to people close to me. Mercy is dedicated to my daughter, Corner of the Earth to my wife, and Hysteria to a lifelong friend. I’m also incredibly grateful to the guest musicians: Chris Clancy, Cheza Taylor, Timo Somers, Steve Wilkin, and Hans Pieters, whose contributions elevated the EP to another level.

8. Something to add?

Past Forward marks the beginning of a new creative approach for me. Working with EPs allows more freedom and flexibility than full albums, and I plan to continue releasing music this way in the coming years, including new original material. This EP is both a reflection and a starting point. So keep your eyes and ears open, there is more to come!