Chad Bowar: How did the band get together?
Bjorn Luna: The band got started in 2004. It was Shagrath who took the step out, after years of talking about making a rock ‘n’ roll band, and summoned some selected friends for some test rehearsals. This was in a period were Dimmu Borgir had a year off, so the timing was perfect. During 2005 we got a steady lineup, and we got more and more focused on the musical direction. At the end of that year we went in the studio to record the debut.
Is the sound of Booze, Broads And Beelzebub similar to Doomsday Rock ‘N Roll?
Pretty similar yes, but the variation is more evident. We’ve incorporated a little bit more punk and good dose of metal in addition to our rock ‘n’ roll basis. The songs are stronger and more instantly catchy. Also this time the production is better. It sounds more powerful due to a good and expensive studio. Doomsday was a very instant album, Booze is more worked through.
How was your recording experience in Studio Fredman?
Short, effective and fun. We recorded it in one week, then we mixed it within the next week. We were living in the studio, so we worked day and night, only interrupted by frequently beer and cigarette breaks.
Going into the studio, were you more or less prepared than on the first CD?
Much more this time. The debut album was recorded in two steps, because we hadn’t written all of the songs when we went in the first time. So that album was more rushed and quite spontaneous. On this album we were very well prepared. We had rehearsed the songs well and analyzed it for boring parts. So when we went in, we were 100 percent sure about the material.
How did you decide on covering ZZ Top’s “Sharp Dressed Man”?
First of all I’m a big fan of ZZ Top. They’re one of my first childhood favorites in addition to Kiss. Second of all “Sharp Dressed Man” is a classic rock song that never goes out of style.You know, the album Eliminator was in fact a bit cheesy soundwise, but the songs were great (and still are). So picking this was in a way trying out how a cool song could end up with a modern and a powerful sound. It’s great to pick a cover that initially is quite different, then turn it into your own.
You guys play “biker metal.” Do you own a motorcycle or have you ridden in the past?
No. None of us own bikes, I’m sad to say. We all like that image, and it fits both the band name and the music. Actually, we share the building we rehearse in with a bikers club. All the pictures from the booklet are taken from there, with their bikes.
With everyone’s obligations in their other bands, will Chrome Division be able to play any live shows or tours to support the CD?
It’s not easy, especially when it should match the strong Dimmu Borgir schedule. We’re going to Germany in February. But first we’ll play some shows here in Norway.
What’s the status of Ashes To Ashes long awaited third CD?
Well, actually Ashes to Ashes is put on ice. The third album of Ashes to Ashes is recorded and it’s only missing some mixing and stuff, but the process is put on hold for indefinite time. A shame really, because it has a lot of strong songs. The drums are played by Cato Bekkevoll (Enslaved), who also helped us out on prior releases. He’s done a tremendous job. There’s also other guest who has contributed. We have goal to put it out for sure, but when is uncertain.
Are you involved in any other bands or projects?
Right now I’m pretty relaxed when it comes to musical involvements. I’m through with participating in three bands simultaneously. I’m too old for that (crap)! And speaking of old, the only thing I’m kinda into now is a project with another guy in the field of country music. I guess that proves my age.
Was there a song or album that inspired you to want to perform music?
I remember I had a “band” when I was 10 or something, miming Kiss tunes. I guess from there on I wanted to be a musician. I think the album Unmasked was used frequently in this outlet. It was my first rock album.
Did you start playing bass, or another instrument?
I started to play guitar, and the band I was with needed a bass player. So I skipped two strings and from there I’ve been totally comfortable with it. I always wanted to be a drummer, but I suck.
Who are some bassists you admire?
Les Claypool, Trevor Dunn, Cliff Burton are some cool bassists I can think of.
Were you a fan of Norwegian black metal and that scene?
Absolutely. In the late nineties there were so much going on in the scene. A lot of great releases and a lot of musicians coming out on the town, sharing the interest while getting drunk. Primarily Oslo based musicians from bands like Mayhem, Darkthrone, Satyricon, and of course Dimmu Borgir. That’s actually how I met Shagrath. In 1996 on Elm Street (a legendary club in Oslo). We instantly made friends, but it was almost eight years later that we became musical partners.
Do you have a day job?
I work at a printing place, making tee shirts and stuff. It’s a really cool place were we can play loud rock music and get rowdy. I don’t think I would manage to work at a quiet place behind a desk.
What are your best and worst personal characteristics?
Best: Helpful. Worst: Forgetful.
What CD do you own that people might be surprised about?
People would expect a rock/metal musician to have just rock/metal interests, but it’s not the case with me. I find interesting things in almost all genres, like reggae, techno, country, jazz, you name it. I recently bought a record of the German folk singer Heino. How’s that for a surprise?
What's your favorite hobby away from music?
Films, preferably supernatural horror movies.
What's your guilty pleasure?
That’ll be too much beer.
