Cave of Wonder

With just over a week before Solstice fly out to Finland, and life outside the band likewise refusing to slow down; I take brief pause to reflect on a wonderful weekend in and around Balver Höhle.

Prophecy Fest has always been a unique affair. Expertly curating an eclectic line-up of bands beyond the usual expectations of Extreme Metal. Personal highlights would have to be incendiary performances by both Perchta and Dymna Lotva – band of the weekend to both neck and ears. Wild noise and feminine fury contrasted by such as the acoustic introspection of Empyrium – performing the entirety of “Where at Night the Wood Grouse Plays” to a rapt audience moved by earnest, well-earned integrity; and of course Wolcensmen at the warm-up.

As for our own set, delivered without apology or compromise, I feel we carried ourselves well. Playing to many who may not be aware of our intent, a quintet of classics offered appropriate introduction – even as we meticulously work on new material for the forthcoming album. The many fists raised and cheers resounding throughout the cave prove our purpose found its place.

Joining the Prophecy family was a daunting prospect; with the tropes of Heavy Metal seeming cliched and primitive against such sophisticated, multi-textured soundscapes. Rather than cower intimidated, I choose to take this as vital inspiration to evolve and grow as an artist. To embrace and explore how these different styles may complement each other, rather than compete in the trite posturing and insecure blather of smaller circles.

To channel another cave, what we believe as reality can often be tainted by the shadowed projections of a narrow, stymied perspective. It is only by stepping into the light that we see what truth may come to pass.

The support and solidarity of our labelmates has been phenomenal. Breaking bread and making merry, sharing conversations insightful and inane. Friendships forged in Wieland’s Smithy, and camaraderie which will linger as steel.

Humblest praise also to the hard-working crew who tirelessly kept everything together over the festival. Their kind patience made us all feel welcome and valued, and none of this could happen without their exemplary efforts.

It is by no coincidence that we are all connected. A synchronicity of spirit and sincerity of soul. My gratitude abounds for the presence of those who share these precious moments of wonder; and for the opportunities presented as I walk my own creative path.

https://heathenstorm.com/2024/09/11/cave-of-wonder/

#dymnalotva #empyrium #heavymetal #livemusic #metal #music #neofolk #perchta #prophecyfest #prophecyproductions #solstice #wolcensmen #Blog #Solstice

Had anyone asked at the start of the year if I would find myself sharing a stage with the legendary Arthur Brown, let alone sharing a record label, then I would have laughed heartily at such a suggestion.

But it’s been a very strange year for SOLSTICE, one with too little laughter for my liking. Weathering a co-ordinated trial of malicious defamation and weaponised grudges, my bandmates and I have endured. Endeavours outside the band have also withstood associated sabotage, and my own work continues unabashed.

To that end, I want to thank all those who stand by us in private and in public; and especially Martin at Prophecy for his trust and support of the band despite the naysayers. Such a statement is proof itself that the accusations have no base in reality.

I shall also ‘thank’ those who joined in the dogpile, spewing petty online allegations in failed attempts to smear, then deleting their weasel words after the truth of things came to light. Their pseudo-pious virtue signalling, mewled from behind the cowardice of keyboards, has proved we are still very much a band worth talking about!

Both Solstice and WOLCENSMEN will play this year’s Prophecy Festival, and I look forward to what may come within the cave and without.

After many decades in and out of a handful of projects, it feels strange to be formally signed to a label as prestigious as Prophecy.

Does this mean I’m now a “professional” musician?

Solstice sign to Prophecy Productions

Prophecy Fest – Balver Höhle, Germany. September 5-7 2024

https://heathenstorm.com/2024/06/20/the-right-time-has-come/

#heavymetal #label #metal #music #prophecyproductions #signing #solstice #wolcensmen