Interviews: Drunkelweizen

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Folk Metal band Drunkelweizen from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

The name Drunkelweizen was originally brewed as an inside joke between founding members from years past. When considering this new project and the idea of "Drunken Folk Metal", it seemed like the perfect fit for the name.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

We were really inspired by some of the pioneers of folk metal which made us want to play a similar style of music. However, we also wanted to incorporate our backgrounds being classically trained to our black/death metal roots. We really wanted to blend heavy metal with big orchestral arrangements, and varying vocal styles to ensure each track stands apart while being cohesive as an album.

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

All of the current members did play together in a similar, though very different, folk metal band previously.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

We all have a large and varied musical background, and there likely isn't a genre that at least one of us enjoys. Personally, I think "favorite" changes just as quickly as the weather here in Portland, so naming just one would be a challenge!

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Our debut album is an ode to those in history whose life was ever entwined with the godly nectar, of alcohol. From legendary poet to notorious outlaw turned folk hero, spectacular miracles, or death that coined an unfortunate phrase, these songs are an homage to the legacy they brewed. Our opening songs tell the tale of such individuals throughout history, whereas the final songs are offered in tribute to those we did not recount, and fueled by their memory and more than a few drinks of our own.

6. Where was your last gig?

Drunkelweizen has yet to perform live, and in all honesty, we are focused on digging into our sophomore album. That's not to say there won't be any live performances, but we'll see where the alcohol leads us.

7. Where would you like to act?

Any opportunity to potentially get the music in front of more people is a win for us. So much of metal is so grim and serious all the time, that we want to offer a more light-hearted and jovial time.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Our previous project has gotten us to play with some of our favorite bands from all over the world as they've come through our area. Any of the big greats in folk metal would be great to connect with again.

9. Whom not?

If someone wants us, then alcohol shall bring us together! haha 

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

Just get out there and do it! If you're passionate about it, then you can't let fears hold you back. Plus, a little liquid encouragement never hurts ;)

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Korpiklaani, Trollfest, and Ensiferum were what initially made us want to play folk metal. However plenty of others such as Finntroll, Equilibrium, Svartsot, Alestorm, Wintersun, Nekrogoblikon and so, so many more have inspired bits and pieces of what we do. There's also been a large classical inspiration for the orchestral components.

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

A previous iteration that later fermented into Drunkelweizen had a period of time without a drummer. We instead played to a drum track, and placed a giant teddy bear, Callisto, behind the drum set. There were definitely some people who were in LOVE with that bear.

13. What do you think of your fans?

We're happy to see that some of the elements of our music can blend some of the sub-genres of metal (heavier elements to classical melodies, varied vocal styles, etc), therefore appealing to a larger group of people while also having a bit of a niche of our own. We hope that everyone enjoys the journey, and the silliness, with us.

14. What do you think of our site?

I love it! There is so much great music out these days, and it is soooooo easy to miss out on your next favorite band. Anything that helps bring music and people together is amazing!

15. Something to add?

We just released our first single, Robinhood of Moonshine, which is available now on most streaming platforms. I would like to thank you and your readers for your time, and lift a stein in toast to you! Cheers!