Infernus: It is for sure not the first time anything related to black metal (is) an issue for the courtrooms. I doubt it will be the last time either. I do not think that is strange, taken the whole phenomenon and its characteristics into consideration.
It is also completely understandable that the media pays a certain attention to such matters as well. Given this example, the ownership of the trademark of my band Gorgoroth might look a bit weird to some. But for me it is a matter of principles. This was something I started working on back in 1992, and I had no wish to end it back in 2007.
What is the status of Live in Grieghallen? Can it be reissued?
This is something we will be considering. Until now the recording process of Quantos Possunt ad Satanitatem Trahunt and the legal issues had to be focused on. We will systematically go through and evaluate what needs to be done and when.
Were you pleased with Regain’s support during the trial?
I am both pleased and thankful. They have been dealing with this, as other issues before, in a good and professional way. And it helps of course a lot that the personal bonds between me and them are strong as well. They are nice guys who you can count on, both in situations when cash is flowing and everyone is happy, and when there are difficulties. They stood their test and they will now be remembered for that. I am happy that I will continue to work together with them.
What do you think the difference will be in Gorgoroth’s sound now that Gaahl and King are gone and Frank Watkins and Tomas Asklund have joined your ranks? What do they bring to the band’s music?
Gorgoroth has always, from the first lineup back in the beginning of the '90s, been about me and other people working together more or less in the same direction with the same goals and guidelines. Every lineup and every time period have had their qualities. Now a new era has begun, and King and Gaahl are what they are: namely ex-members.
There will never be another 1993 again or a 2006, needless to say. But we will now continue what I started back in 1992 together, and I firmly believe they will have the qualities needed to put their mark on what we do in a way which will make it remembered in the time that comes. I am happy about the end result now, both in terms of recording and of future live activities. I could have done without the mess of paperwork and I could have done without those two certain former members illegally using the name for a year and a half. But now it is time to look forward. Together with Frank, Tomas and the rest I am ready to show what we are made of.
Could you ever see yourself sharing a bill with Gaahl and King or making music with them again?
Or perhaps inviting them for a beer one day? Enough about this now! It's time to get back on track.
