Interviews: Astral Sleep

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Doom Metal band, Astral Sleep from Finland. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

I can't quite accurately remember, but I think it came to me in a dream some 20 years ago.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Doom Metal seemed like a good basis to build something unique on

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

Astral Sleep was formed in 2004 by Markus Heinonen, Jaakko Oksanen & Rolle Heinonen, who all had previous experience playing together, but all were mostly friends. Drummer Jiri Pyörälä was recruited in 2008 but we did not know him beforehand.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Markus: Solitude Aeturnus, Death, Scald, Skepticism, Iron Maiden, The Beatles, Motörhead, Judas Priest, Michael Jackson, Fela Kuti

Jaakko: Iron Maiden

Jiri: Black Sabbath (Dio era)

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Nature, Dreams, Philosophy, and every media from books to games, movies, series, etc...

6. Where was your last gig?

Bar Rock Bear Vantaa with Spiritus Mortis & Ciminero

7. Where would you like to act?

Anywhere where the atmosphere is great

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

I guess the closest band there is with our stuff is YOB

9. Whom not?

Ghost

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

All the time! First of all, get rid of anything that might get you more stressed before going on stage. Then try to get a bit distracted so your mind is thinking of other things than the oncoming show. However, be prepared, open your voice, warm your fingers, anything you need to do. Don't be afraid to sing, play, talk, dance, have fun, or whatever backstage. I would advise against using alcohol.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Solitude Aeturnus, Death, Scald, Skepticism, Iron Maiden, The Beatles, Motörhead, Judas Priest, Michael Jackson, Fela Kuti

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

CD when we only release vinyl. Vinyl when we only release CD.

13. What do you think of your fans?

They are the purest lifeforms on earth

14. What do you think of our site?

Very cool!

15. Something to add?

We are already living in the end of times! The end is here! Stay Metal and non-existent!