Interviews: Black Reuss

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Dark Rock/Doom Metal/Metal artist Black Reuss from Liechtenstein. Check out the interview and follow the artist on his FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Hello Maurizio! We welcome BLACK REUSS! Where did you get the idea for the band’s name?

This is relatively simple. Black symbolizes melancholy and Reuss is a river in Switzerland. When I started Black Reuss, I lived in a place that is on this river. My music is about the flow of life and different chapters in my life. Hence the river. And because I'm also a melancholic person, the word black is still in there.

2. What music style do you play with BLACK REUSS and why did you want to play this genre?

Somewhere between doom and gothic metal, I would say. There are also other influences I think. And I do it because it's me and I think it's cool.

3. BLACK REUSS started out as a solo project of yours. Do you have plans to make it a full-member band?

No…

4. Which are your favorite bands, those who have inspired you the most?

Oh... I'm often asked that and I can't answer it like that. There are so many good artists... but it's not just music that inspires me, but other things too. People, art, books, films, and also things that happen in life and shape me. I try to express that with music.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs and lyrics? 

My life and what happens and shapes me.

6. Do you give live shows?

Not yet, but I would like to.

7. Where would you like to play live and with which bands?

I would like to play wherever someone is listening. In my opinion, Black Reuss needs a certain kind of atmosphere and the way it is presented live, and that requires space for lighting and effects and a certain size. I think in a pub on a small stage without lights it might not come across so well.

8. Do you have any tips for beginners on how to start up their own music project? 

Be persistent, follow your dreams and wishes, and don’t let anybody tell you what you have to do and what not.

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

I can’t tell you that… too private :-)

10. What do you think of your fans?

Fans are great, that's what music thrives on. I mean, it's a huge gift when someone follows your music and loves it. You can't get any greater appreciation than that as a musician.

11. We know your new album Arrival is the 3rd part of a concept that will be completed with the 4th album. Can you show us the world of this concept from your eyes as the creator?

I describe life in four chapters. The first is the metamorphosis, the second is the journey, the third is the arrival, and the fourth is the death. It's relatively simple. The whole thing is written from my point of view and as I have experienced it or interpreted it.

12. What is your favorite Black Reuss song and why?

Puuhhh... Very difficult question. It's like asking a father which is his favorite child. Nevertheless, for me, there are songs that I think have turned out better than others. I think Evolution is one. I love its mood and epicness. And I also like the very first song from Black Reuss Incomplete. Incomplete also has a strong message that is always valid for me...

13. Your new single/video is for the track “Loner”. What does it mean to you? How alone are we in modern societies?

Good questions... Loner means a lot to me. With Arrival, you could interpret that I've arrived in life now and everything is good. That's not the case...it's mainly about the fact that I've learned to deal with many of my demons. The problems are still there but they have a different influence on me because I can deal with them differently. It's the same with being alone. It's mainly about how I deal with being alone. I have learned that being alone can also be and is something beautiful. If someone is negative, they risk being alone over time. That's not a good thing. If you surround yourself with problems then you are alone. But if you prioritize the good things in life, then suddenly being alone is no longer such a problem. It's different when someone is ill or contact with humanity is a problem. I often had the feeling that I was alone when I was with other people. For example... you're in a group and nobody is real. Everyone tries to tell you how good their life is and what they have achieved... it's super superficial. In situations like that, I don't feel like I'm part of something…. it's alienating. I believe that loneliness is on the increase. Nobody has time for each other anymore. Everything is super busy. That's basically not the problem... The problem is more that most people are busy with things that aren't good for them. I mean, people have thousands of friends and followers on social media, but none of them care about your well-being. That's kind of sick... That's why yes. Loneliness is a huge problem and it's getting bigger and bigger.

14. What do you think of our site? Also, what is the response you get from other sites, blogs, and magazines?

I like your site. I have the feeling that you like music and that it means something to you. That's great... Keep it up. The responses are different... I am of course very happy when someone is interested in what I do. That's a great appreciation.

15. Where can we find Black Reuss merch to order?

Thank you for the interview! I have to thank you… please visit our website…. www.blackreuss.com there is a shop for merch…