DARKANE
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DARKANE |
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Andreas Sydow Christofer Malmstrom Jorgen Lofberg Klas Ideberg Peter Wildoer
Images & Words by: Ellie Timms
New Jersey March Metal Meltdown V
This was the second time Darkane graced the US shores with their mighty presence. The first was at Milwaukee Metal Fest in 2001. Their performance was nothing short of cataclysmic.
They came to New Jersey in support of their 3rd and current CD Expanding Senses. Expanding Senses is a mind-bending experience. The music is intense and dark, the lyrics have such depth and at times very overwhelming. This is a masterpiece, Bravo Gentleman!!!
As I awaited Darkane's performance, the anticipation escalated to intense trepidation. I wondered how could they possibly surpass the Milwaukee performance. That fear was completely unfounded. They were phenomenal. The clean razor sharp vocals of Andreas Sydow, coupled with his aggressive and commanding stage presence left the crowd begging for more. Musically the band is finely tuned and never misses a beat. Christofer Malmstrom and Klas Ideberg's guitars, played as if their two guitars were just one instrument, absolute perfection. Jorgen Lofberg bass and Peter Wildoer's drumming proved yet again the Swedish god's of thunder do reign supreme. They are unparalleled in the world of metal. Further validation of that fact can be found in the latest issue of Burrn (Japan) one of the top music publications selected Peter as the 18th most popular drummer in the world. Like the their fans abroad the American fans love this highly acclaimed and respect group of musician.
Christofer Malmstrom guitarist and one of the founders of Darkane. Told me what a great time (with the exception of the food poisoning) he and the band had here is the US. He wanted thank all of you who support Darkane and who attended the NJ Metal fest this year! It was a very cool show for us! After the new CD is to be completed sometime between March and May of 2004. They expressed a strong desire to return to the US and play as many shows as possible. I asked them about the energy they give out during their set and where this intensity comes from. They feel the fans play a lot of money for the concert tickets, so it is important to them to give them the best show. That is why they give so much of them selves onstage. Their adrenaline charged performance comes from a pure passion for their fans and playing their music
Darkane is currently home in Sweden having just completed a tour with Meshuggah, that took them through Sweden and Norway. They are now preparing to tour Europe, (April 8th - April 22nd) eight countries in fourteen days on the No Mercy Festival 2003. Testament, Marduk, Death Angel, Die Apokalyptschen Reiter, Nuclear Assault, Pro-Pain, Malevolent Creation and Callenisch Circle are on the bill with Darkane What an awesome line up shame we will not see this show in the US.
Then we discussed the various side projects some of the band members are involved in. Klas said he is really looking forward to the Terror 2000 shows in Tokyo on May 27th and 28th. Also Klas along with Jorgen are apart of a band called The Defaced Unfortunately The Defaced’s tour schedule conflicts with Darkane’s That means The Defaced will have to replace Jorgen & Klas this time out
Then Peter mentioned Time Requiem (one of several bands he is involved with) and how challenging the symphonic style of music is to play and that he enjoys it. However if you viewed his rather extensive CD collection (approx. 1,000+) you will find nothing but extreme music. At present Andreas creative outlet is only with Darkane he said he is content with that and enjoys his life off stage. Christofer is only involved with one side project and that is a solo album. He is working on from time to time. It takes quite a while for him since Darkane takes most of his time and energy. He has Gustaf Hielm from Meshuggah on bass, and is looking for a good drummer for the project
The men of Darkane are dedicated musicians and enjoy all the different creative projects they are involved in. Yet when all is said and done Darkane is their main focus. Darkane was formed in mutual respect and friendship. It is that bond that will hold Darkane together as the continue to achieve their musical goals, and live each and every dream.
© 2004 Ellie Timms - LHMWebzine.com - "Heavy Metal & Rock N Roll" All Rights Reserved