Interview: NOCTURNAL DEPARTURE (CAN)

[Taken from Spectral Sorcery, Issue #4, Summer MMXXIV A.Y.P.S.]

Lolth: When did Nocturnal Departure start? What inspired the band name?

Illartha: NOCTURNAL began around Beltane of 2017. The name itself is inspired by a Swedish 90s band.

Lolth: How do you all write and record your songs?

Illartha: Funeror is the main creative force but with our new line-up, it will be a collaborative and dedicated aural effort. We record amongst ourselves and close friends, in sub-level spaces.

Lolth: Who/what are your main musical inspirations (bands/scenes/eras/etc.)?

Illartha: Witnessing BLACK CILICE and SARGEIST perform ignited the black flame, in terms of our live essence. Musically, the old great ones; GORGOROTH, CELTIC FROST, DARKTHRONE, MAYHEM, LEVIATHAN...

Lolth: Are your lyrics a crucial part of your music, or are they more of a decorative touch?

Funeror: Especially now as I have returned to lead guitar and vocal duties, the lyrics are crucial to me personally and spiritually, as well as a serrated touch to the music. Depending on the song, the lyrics will touch on fiction, personal soul belief, and an overall catharsis of useless poison.

Lolth: What do you think of the current state of Black Metal, and who are your favorite active bands?

Illartha: I don’t pay attention of the state of black metal. Connections made in person is always king and our experiences playing with live acts have been great. Bands like BELLWITCH, SPECTRAL WOUND, NACHTLICH, SPIRIT POSSESSION, WINTER GRAVES, ZESAB. Other favourites are ENDLESS SOLITUDE, SACRIFICIAL ALTAR, OCCULT BLOOD, UNDULATION, COPROLITH and endlessly more.

Lolth: What’s your experience being a woman/not being a man in black metal (or, what’s your collective experience with misogyny in BM as a band)?

Illartha: I’ve had few negative experiences as a woman but there’s always idiots lurking. I don't entertain their bullshit. I value most of my experiences being a woman playing in bands. It’s a powerful feeling being on stage, and playing your all. I also enjoy connecting with other girls and women. Some have never seen a woman performing live in extreme metal bands, and I know from personal experience how important it is to see representation. I feel grateful.

Lolth: What’s the BM the scene like up in Manitoba?

Illartha: Black metal in Manitoba is humble. There are a handful of bands that actively play live such as WINTER GRAVES, CELL, WILT, BAYROLLES and many that are recording projects.

Lolth: In your opinion, what is the meaning of Black Metal?

Illartha: It’s turning into oneself’s most abyssal darkness, and relishing in ugliness. Simply an expression of raw emotion. An expression of anger towards religious sects or humanity. Black metal is a means to reclaim power and strength in oneself.

Lolth: What are your plans for the future of the band?

Illartha: In this cycle, Nocturnal is writing new material for a new album. Our next show will be in Saskatoon, while we’re on our way to Edmonton, Alberta for Infest. Infest is a 3 day outdoor festival with bands like GOATWHORE, SPECTRAL WOUND, CEREMONIAL BLOODSHED and more. We plan to record in the fall.