Country: Cuba (early), Spain (later)
From: Pontevedra, Galicia
Genre: Black Metal
1. AM: Tell us about the initial period of the band's existence. How and under what circumstances was it formed? What were your motives back then?
Narbeleth: Was the year of 2008, and back then I was playing guitar in what was my first band. We were making a sort of Black/Thrash, and sometimes I came up with riffs that didn´t fit on the concept; so one day I decided to put together all this and create a solo project. Thus, “Dark Primitive Cult” was recorded and with it, NARBELETH.
2. AM: What was it like to release your first demo?
Narbeleth: After I recorded these 3 songs, I contacted a small label from Bolivia called Intifernal Records, as we worked together with my previous band; and he agreed to release the demo in tape. Some months after this, a label from France contacted me offering to release the demo in CD. At the moment, that was exactly what I was looking for, as the demo was meant to be a kind of “presentation card” of NARBELETH as new born project.
3. AM: What are the main differences between Black Metal in Cuba and Black Metal in Spain that first come to mind?
Narbeleth: The scene is much, much bigger here. There are quite a few concerts in general. In terms of the technical aspect, which is very significant, it is very easy to access good conditions for recording, rehearsing, and playing live. And of course, the ease of moving around Europe opens up a world of possibilities.
4. AM: How would you describe your musical evolution through the prism of six full-length albums?
Narbeleth: I think it is normal and good for a band to evolve, as long as the concept around which everything revolves remains stable. And that is precisely what, in my opinion, has happened with NARBELETH over the years. We go through many experiences in our lives, and this is undoubtedly reflected in the art. Additionally, in my case, the technical aspect, with access to better resources for recording and playing since I moved to Spain.
5. AM: Has your approach to creating music changed throughout the history of the band?
Narbeleth: As said before, is normal that our points of view change over the years, and we can get inspiration and motivation from new sources. But one thing still my main goal and motivation: create Black Metal the way I enjoy and feel more pure, inspired in the 90´s classics.
6. AM: How does the concept of an album usually emerge? What comes first, the music, the lyrics or the images that you later use to design your works?
Narbeleth: I always compose music first. Sometimes a song can emerge completely in a couple of hours, sometimes it can be finished within months. When I have 7 songs, I give this to my drummer so he can learn it and start rehearsing for recording. In the meanwhile, I write the lyrics according to what I feel the songs ask for.
7. AM: Do you have any plans to collaborate with other bands? You don't have a single split album in your discography, what is the reason for this?
Narbeleth: There isn't an specific reason for that. If the opportunity arises at any point, I would be happy to do it. However, it is true that I prefer to work on a complete album rather than one or two songs for a split. But yes, I would do it if it is offered to me or comes up and I feel comfortable with it.
8. AM: At the same time, I can note the excellent choice of songs that you covered: Judas Iscariot, Arckanum, Darkthrone, Satyricon, NettleCarrier, Urgehal. There is a tradition to end each album with a cover.
Narbeleth: Exactly. Is my humble way to pay tribute to bands that have influenced and inspired me when creating Black Metal over the years.
9. AM: I think this can perfectly describe both you and the audience that listens to you. By the way, what can you say about the quality of the listeners, has it changed in the last ten to fifteen years?
Narbeleth: It is comforting to know that your music reaches the right ears; and I feel satisfaction when I receive positive feedback about what I do from my followers. It is very rewarding when people connect their experiences with the music you create, and it helps and accompanies them in their lives. NARBELETH has managed to have a small but loyal fan base over the years, and I am very grateful for their support.
10. AM: What do you consider your greatest achievement as Narbeleth?
Narbeleth: Playing at Under the Black Sun in 2014, and still active as band after these years.
11. AM: Are you currently working on a new album? What are your plans for the future?
Narbeleth: I do have recorded some riffs, and written some notes for lyrics, and I do expect to release new music in 2025/26. We have also planned some shows for 2025 that I will announce very soon.
12. AM: Has your worldview changed since the foundation of Narbeleth? If so, what changes would you note?
Narbeleth: Yes, of course. We are constantly evolving, and this is good and necessary. I have changed in many ways since I moved to Europe, and I think it’s normal with such a change. Now, when we talk about NARBELETH, the concept has remained intact since day one, although I have found new sources of inspiration. But in the end, it all comes down to two words: Black Metal.
13. AM: You have been releasing on Folter Records for 10 years now. Tell us how this long-term collaboration began.
Narbeleth: During the recording of my second album, 'A Hatred Manifesto', I was looking for a label with the aim of releasing it in a somewhat larger quantity than the first album (100 copies if I remember correctly). Folter Records showed great interest in the demo I sent them and offered to release the album on CD, as well as invite NARBELETH to Under the Black Sun 2014. From that moment on, we have worked together and cultivated a good friendship. I am satisfied with what they offer as a record label, and I always appreciate their support and trust.
14. AM: Folter Records does not release or distribute cassette versions of albums, only CDs and vinyl. Do you share this view? As far as I know, only the debut demo and the first full-length album of Narbeleth exist on tapes.
Narbeleth: Exactly, so far only those two releases have been available in tape format. As I mentioned earlier, I am satisfied with the work of Folter Records and we understand each other very well. That doesn’t mean that at some point, if the opportunity arises, I could release an album on tape.
15. AM: Thank you for the interview. Last words?
Narbeleth: Thank you very much for your interest in NARBELETH, and as always, thanks to all NARBELETH supporters around the world. Keep Black Metal underground!
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December 2024
Interview for Articulo Mortis