Interview with the Band Tystnaden (Italy)

July 22, 2024

Interview with the Band Tystnaden (Italy)

By Mick Michaels

COSMICK VIEW: Hello! Welcome to The Cosmick View. Thank you for taking some time out of your day to chat with me, it's greatly appreciated.
Laura De Luca: Thank you for having us! It's a pleasure to be here and talk with you and your readers.

CV: Do you feel Heavy Metal music in general is viewed differently by fans in Europe compared to fans elsewhere, especially in America, and if so why?
LDL: Yes, we think there are definitely differences in how metal is perceived in Europe compared to America. In Europe, especially in Nordic countries and Central Europe, metal has deep roots and a long tradition dating back to the '70s and '80s. This has led to a very strong and established metal culture. In America, metal has a more mainstream presence but the scene is very diverse and often influenced by other musical subcultures. Generally, the European approach tends to be more traditional, while in America there's more experimentation and blending with other genres.

CV: What do you feel makes Heavy Metal music so alluring to the fans? What is it about the music that personally resonates so strongly with you?
Cesare Codispoti: Metal has this raw energy that just grabs you and doesn't let go. For us, it's all about that intense, emotional punch that really hits home. It's the perfect way to pour out those complex feelings and experiences. Plus, it creates this awesome sense of community and belonging among fans and musicians.

CV: Has Metal splintered into too many sub-genres in your opinion, thus, making it harder for newer bands to actually classify themselves as one style over another? Is it confusing for fans as well?
LDL: Sure, metal has split into tons of sub-genres, which can make it tricky for new bands to pin down their style. But personally, I think it's actually an added value to not being identified with just one genre.It means there's more room for creativity and new ideas. It might be a bit confusing for fans at first, but it also means there's a whole lot of awesome music out there to discover and enjoy.

CV: How would you describe the current state of the music business considering we are now living in a COVID aware, and maybe even feared world? Have things drastically changed long-term for artists and bands given the recent pandemic? What are your thoughts?
CC: The pandemic has definitely had a profound impact on the music industry. Live performances and tours, which are crucial for many bands, were severely affected. However, it also pushed musicians to explore new ways of connecting with their audience, like live streaming and virtual concerts. While some changes might be long-term, we believe the industry will adapt and evolve. The passion for music remains strong, and both artists and fans are finding creative ways to keep the spirit alive.Without knowing it, you've hit on the concept behind our new album, "The Black Swan." In the songs on The Black Swan, we look at how unexpected events can totally shake up our lives. You can't see them coming, but how we react can change everything. We can either fight against it or embrace it. Trust me, you're gonna want to listen to and dive into The Black Swan when it drops!

CV: What do you feel makes your band and its particular approach to songwriting work? What keeps the band together and making music?
LDL: Our approach to songwriting is very collaborative. Each member brings their own influences and ideas, and we work together to blend these into something unique. What keeps us together is our shared passion for music and our commitment to evolving as a band. The initial idea usually comes from one of us, often Cesare, but it's what everyone else brings that makes the magic happen. Each of us sees things and feels the music in our own way, bringing a bit of passion, of anger, of sweetness, of bitterness…We work guided only by this, never looking at the final result until the end. Only then do we realize that the final result is as valuable as the journey we faced to get there.

CV: On a more global view, how do you see your band’s music and songwriting separating itself from just being another Heavy Metal act?
CC: We probably are just another Heavy Metal act ;) but we strive to create a sound that is both powerful and melodic, combining the raw energy of metal with elegant and intricate musical elements. Our lyrics are also a crucial part of our identity, often delving into deep and thought-provoking themes. This combination of musical complexity and lyrical depth helps us stand out and resonate with our listeners on a deeper level.

CV: Can an artist truly be unique? Some would argue there is no such thing as being unique; that it’s nothing more than a compounding of influences making an artist who or what they are. Would this then say that artists today are destined to be just copies of those who have already come to pass?
LDL: I also agree quite a bit with the phrase you mentioned. So, we're not talking about absolute uniqueness but relative uniqueness. I believe there are still unique artists out there. They probably (or rather certainly) haven't invented anything entirely new, but it's the way they blend their influences (because we all have them) with their own experiences, their taste, their wisdom that makes them unique nonetheless. Copies are a different story—they lack personality. And you can just tell.

CV: Are there life lessons to learn being in a Heavy Metal band that you feel cannot be taught elsewhere? If so, what are they?
CC: Being in a heavy metal band teaches you about dedication, resilience, and teamwork. It’s a challenging path that requires a lot of hard work and perseverance. You learn to handle criticism, face failures, and keep pushing forward. It also teaches respect towards others, to listen to them because they're right there by your side, stripped bare (because for us, writing songs is this), to show a bit of themselves without shame, immersed in your own project. These lessons are valuable not just in music but in life as well.

CV: What do you feel makes someone a “rock star”? Does being a rock star automatically make one iconic or are the two completely different in your opinion?

LDL: Oh, you wanna know what makes a "rock star"? Well, according to the handbook: epic hair, killer guitar skills, and an attitude that screams "I don't give a damn!" But seriously, being a rock star isn't just about the image—it's about having a unique charisma, impossible to explain in words, owning the stage and connecting with fans in a way that makes you unforgettable. As for being iconic, that's like the next level. Not every rock star becomes an icon, but when they do, well….

CV: What's next for you? What can fans expect to see coming as the world looks to surmount a new normal laced with a load of restrictions?
CC: We’re very excited to release our fourth album, "The Black Swan", on the 13^th of September. Fans can expect new music, new merchandise and a return to live performances. We’re also working on more videos and interactive content to stay connected with our audience.

CV: Thank you again for spending some time talking and sharing with our readers. It was a pleasure. I wish you all the best and continued success.
LDL: Thanks to you for the time and space you've given us. Let us know what you think of The Black Swan! Cheers!

Check out Tystnaden at:

Official: https://www.tystnaden.com/home.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TystnadenBand

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tystnaden_band/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tystnadenbandofficial

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My name is Mick Michaels...I'm an artist, music fan, songwriter, producer, show host, dreamer and guitarist for the traditional Heavy Metal band Corners of Sanctuary. Writing has always been a creative outlet for me; what I couldn't say in speech, I was able to do with the written word. Writing has given me a voice and a way for me to create on a multitude of platforms including music and song, articles, independent screenplays, books and now, artist interviews. The Cosmick View is an opportunity to raise the bar and showcase artists in a positive and inspirational light. For me, it's another out-of-this-world adventure.