Interviews: Battlesoul

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Pagan Metal/Folk Metal band Battlesoul from Canada. Check out the interview and follow this band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name? Was it planned, or did it just happen organically?

I believe our guitarist, Mike Grund, came up with the name. Like most bands, we went through a few ideas, but when that one came up, it just fit.

2. Why did you choose to play this genre?

It matched our influences well. We have always had a strong melodic element to what we do, and it felt right to mix the folk/orchestral parts into it. Those elements also helped us stand out in our local scene in our early days.

3. Did you know each other before forming the band?

Well, my brother Thomas is in the band, and I have known him my entire life. Aside from that, we had all met playing in different bands around London, Ontario, Canada, before forming Battlesoul.

4. What is each band member's favorite band?

That is a little hard to answer, as we don’t spend as much time together as we would like these days. Broadley speaking, I would say Blind Guardian, early In Flames, Moonsorrow, and Emperor would sum it u,p but individually there would probably be too many bands to name.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

That is a good question. I would say at this stage, we have been playing music and writing songs for so much of our lives that it is almost like asking what inspires you to breathe. As far as making music in Battlesoul, I think how much we enjoy playing together is the real inspiration.

6. Where was your last gig?

Waterloo, Canada, far too long ago.

7. Where would you like to perform in the future?

As a band, we are spread out across Canada, Mexico, and Australia, so performing live is a challenge at the moment. For myself, I would love to play in Quebec City or Montreal again since they always had an amazing welcome for us.

8. Which artist or band would you like to collaborate with?

Hmm, I can’t really speak for the whole band on this one, but Dan Swano or Henri Sorvali would be a cool fit.

9. Is there anyone you wouldn’t want to collaborate with?

As long as they have a good vibe, I wouldn’t rule anyone out.

10. Have any of you ever experienced stage fright? Do you have any tips for beginners on overcoming it?

Not really, I’ve always been more excited to play than nervous. I would say the best way to get over it is to perform often and remember that nothing will ever be perfect. Just keep going.

11. Which bands have influenced you the most? 

For me, I would say the Gothenburg holy trinity: In Flames, Dark Tranquillity, and At the Gates. They started me on my metal journey, so every band that influenced me along the way, I owe to that original spark.

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

Probably my signature on another band’s merch, but there hasn’t been anything all that strange.

13. What do you think of your fans?

It’s always great to hear from people who enjoy what you do.

14. What do you think of our site?

I like it! I appreciate the dedication it takes to keep a passion project going, and stuff like this keeps the scene alive.

15. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Thanks for reaching out to us. It feels good to have a release out again!