5 Questions With... is your chance to get to know new and up-and-coming bands. Kommandant are a Chicago black/death metal band who recently released the EP Kontakt. Guitarist Jim Bresnahan introduces us to his band.
Dave Schalek: Please provide a brief history of the band.
The band was formed by me back in 2005. Initially, the lineup consisted only of Andy (Cianide) and me. We have a revolving door lineup at the moment, so I see no point in stating individual members at this point. The band was formed in reaction to what I see as a state of ambivalence and lack of integrity within the heavy music scene. Kommandant will provide that which lacks in today's current scene. Kommandant is a weapon. Music is a tool and, in the right hands, is a very powerful weapon. We are asserting our will, pushing our agenda, re-shaping the world around us. Our weapon is Kommandant.
Do you feel that the band's imagery flirts with NS ideology? Would it be a mistake to have that impression of the band? Please describe lyrical content in this context.
We are musicians and are not politicians. Do I agree that the band has a bit a militaristic aesthetic? Yes, absolutely. However, we have absolutely no control over what a fan takes from our music and imagery into their overactive, negative, interpretive psyche. If you were to ask five different fans for their interpretation of what the meaning is behind Pink Floyd's The Wall, I guarantee that you will find five completely different perspectives. For us, what makes art interesting is what you DO NOT see, and not the obvious. I believe this also answers the second part of your question. If a band ever desires to provoke attention to one's lyrics, or to even draw attention to their music and visual aesthetic in a general way, I can tell you what the secret formula is...Don't print your lyrics!
Describe the band's relationship with Planet Metal Records. Are you satisfied with the band's level of exposure?
Planet Metal is a very underground label and is local for us. Before signing us, Chris was very up front with us in regards to his label's abilities, as well as limitations. He has done for us everything that he has promised and more! We are happy with Planet Metal at the moment, but would gladly move on if the correct offer from another label were to present itself. Our loyalty is to ourselves first, and the dedication to others comes as merely secondary.
Are there plans to tour to support the release of Kontakt? If so, in what capacity?
We have some spotty dates here around the Midwest for the remainder of 2010. Next year, there is a possible West Coast tour that is currently being negotiated. If any of your readers are willing to pay us to play in their city, please feel free to contact us. Money talks.
How does Kommandant support or detract from the band members' various other projects?
The current lineup is not involved with any projects outside of Kommandant. Anyone wishing to do so is asked to leave. This is a new law for Kommandant that was ratified by me personally earlier this year. We have had two members leave this year because of this. Kommandant has now become so busy of late that we simply cannot allow any part time employment any longer.
(photo courtesy Planet Metal Records)
Comments
Kinda mouthy for a band that’s never played outside of a tri-state area, no?
So, perhaps they’re tied down with day jobs. That’s no reason why they can’t be vocal in regards to something they are passionate about.
Kommandant just played Samhain Fest in South Carolina.I would consider this outside of the tri state area.
How does Kommandant support or detract from the band members’ various other projects?
“The current lineup is not involved with any projects outside of Kommandant. Anyone wishing to do so is asked to leave.”
Funny, because your latest drummer/bassist was also in another Chicago black metal band for about five months wasn’t he? By the way, this isn’t someone from a band in Chicago–just a guy who knows certain things in the black metal scene.
All and any other irony aside, I wish you luck.
interesting, the new bassist has another band which is still technically on hiatus as well. huh.
I agree with what Black Metal Fan Says.I am also just a fan,like you,and am not in a band either.I am just someone who knows certain things in the black metal scene.Long live EMPYREUS! Long live Wisconsin Black Metal!!!!!
Drummer *was* in another project. Aren’t you confirming that this is in the past? How are prior commitments in any way relevant to this?
People shouldn’t worry about what these guys do for day jobs, what bands they were in/kinda in, or how they want to run their band. Listen to them instead. They are worth checking out.