Interview with A Somber Funeral

December 31, 2024

Interview with A Somber Funeral

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.

Alex: Thank you for having us! We’re happy to be here and share a bit about our music and perspective.

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?

Alex: Definitely. In my opinion, Europe has a deeply rooted heavy metal culture with a strong connection to traditional and underground scenes. Festivals like Wacken Open Air and Hellfest highlight the genre's importance here, and fans often embrace both the classic and experimental sides of metal. In America, metal tends to blend more with mainstream culture, and there’s a stronger focus on modern and crossover genres. Both regions celebrate metal in their unique ways, but the fanbase in Europe often feels more intertwined with its history and underground ethos.

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?

Alex: Heavy Metal is pure expression—it’s raw, powerful, and emotional. For fans, it’s not just music; it’s a lifestyle and a sense of belonging. Personally, what resonates with us is how metal allows us to channel deep emotions, whether it’s sorrow, anger, or introspection. It’s cathartic and creates a connection between the artist and the listener that’s unlike any other genre.

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?

Alex: Metal’s diversity is both a blessing and a challenge. On one hand, the variety of sub-genres gives bands incredible freedom to create. On the other hand, it can feel overwhelming for both musicians and fans to categorize themselves. For us, we embrace the term "atmospheric black metal," but we don’t let genre constraints define our creativity. Instead, we focus on making music that speaks to us and trust that the fans will connect with it regardless of labels.

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?

Alex: The pandemic definitely reshaped the music world. Live music, which is such a vital part of the metal scene, took a huge hit, and many bands had to pivot to online platforms and streaming. While it’s great that technology allowed fans and artists to stay connected, the energy of live performances can’t be replaced. Long-term, we think the industry is learning to adapt with hybrid approaches—live streaming combined with traditional shows—but it’s still challenging for smaller bands trying to gain traction.

CV: What do you feel makes your band and its particular approach to songwriting work? What keeps the band together and making music?

Alex: Our songwriting is rooted in honesty. We focus on creating an atmosphere that reflects our emotions and experiences. The dynamic between us as bandmates—I am focusing on instrumentation and Chris bringing his vocal and bass work—gives us a strong creative foundation. What keeps us together is our shared vision and respect for each other’s ideas. Even though we come from different backgrounds, we find a common ground in our passion for the music we create.

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?

Alex: We aim to make music that feels deeply personal while still being universal. Our debut album, Summertime Sorrow, and our latest single, Celestial Child, explore themes of melancholy and beauty, drawing listeners into an immersive experience. By blending atmospheric black metal with cinematic and melodic influences, we hope to offer something that stands apart from the norm while still honoring the genre’s roots.

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?

A Somber Funeral: That’s a fascinating question. In some ways, it’s true that every artist is a reflection of their influences. But it’s how you combine those influences and filter them through your own experiences that makes you unique. No two people will interpret the same inspirations in exactly the same way. So, while originality may be rare, authenticity is what truly matters, and that’s what we strive for in our music.

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?

Alex: Absolutely. Being in a metal band teaches resilience, teamwork, and the value of passion. It’s not an easy path—balancing creativity, finances, and personal lives requires determination. You also learn to embrace individuality and the importance of connecting with others through shared emotions and stories. Metal teaches us that there’s strength in vulnerability and beauty in darkness.

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?

Alex: Being a “rock star” is about charisma, talent, and the ability to inspire others. However, being iconic goes beyond that—it’s about leaving a lasting impact on music and culture. You can be a rock star without being iconic, but to truly be iconic, you need to create something timeless that resonates with people long after you’re gone.

CV: What's next for you? What can fans expect to see coming from A Somber Funeral?

Alex: We’re currently working on our next full-length album, which we plan to release in early 2026. By the end of 2025, we’ll reveal the details, including the title, concept, and release date. In the meantime, we’re promoting our latest single, Celestial Child, and debut album, Summertime Sorrow. While we’re a studio project for now, we’re also preparing for live performances with Black Aeons, starting in 2025.

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.

Alex: Thank you! It was a pleasure to chat with you. We appreciate the opportunity and look forward to sharing more music with you and your readers soon.

Check out A Somber Funeral at:

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/asomberfuneral/

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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.