1. Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new
album?
We are waiting patiently for the reaction of the audience since the new album is quite different comparing to the first one. Some new material has been already created, but additional feedback wouldn't hurt so we know we are heading in the right direction. This time we have put considerably bigger effort in promoting our new material and I expect that we will be able to increase our audience significantly with "Thanathonaut" release.
2. You have a new album coming out in May, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical sound of the new recording and also how does it differ from the album you had released 2 years ago?
Musically we've got the same set of instruments we have used previously: guitars, keys, cello etc. However, this time we have also added double bass and saxophone to the mix as well. Talking about the tempo of the music - we don't play 30 bpm anymore. In other words we have left funeral doom behind replacing it with traditional doom, stoner and many other genres to add more originality and uniqueness to our music.
3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the new release?
There are not that much lyrics in "Thanathonaut". However, the main topic is humankind, our general inability to value what is given to us, our self-destructive nature. The overall concept of this album centers around nuclear war as a great example of the aspects listed above.
4. The band started out as 'Funestum' what was the decision behind the name change and also the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Narrow House'?
Funestum split up and we created a new band based on the remaining members. We were bored with the old name and wanted to come up with something different and more original. "Narrow House" is actually a synonym to the "grave" or "coffin". When we released "A key to Panngrieb", our debut album, and people started to give us reviews, we were surprised that the meaning of our name wasn't that obvious as we thought it would be. Not sure if this is a good thing or not.
5. What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
As Funestum we had a great show with Cemetery of Scream back in 2009 (you can find some videos on our Youtube channel). And after we have changed our name we were also able to share a stage with Skepticism at Doom Over Kiev festival. Talking about our performance, we try to accompany our music with video projection each time when it is technically possible. I've always had crazy ideas on how to improve our stage image and maybe at some point I will have a chance to do so.
6. Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?
As I said before, "Thanathonaut" features quite a few unusual instruments and most local musicians who play them are not willing to do so with the metal band on a daily basis. This mean that whenever we want to play live we will have to hire up to 4-5 additional musicians to deliver the proper sound. This is possible when you don't have to go abroad, but in all other cases it's bad news for those people who organize international gigs. Hopefully, our new album will be met with enthusiasm and new opportunities will emerge.
7. The new album is coming out on Solitude Productions, how would you describe the support they have given you so far?
We have started our cooperation with the release of our first album. They've helped us with the production of "A Key to Panngrieb" and did a great job with distributing it. In other words - they helped us a lot and I can say that I'm quite satisfied with the quality of their work in all aspects.
8. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of funeral doom metal?
It was amazing; we even managed to get into top 3 best extreme doom albums of 2012 according to "Metal Storm Awards". It's a bit sad that we're not able to continue developing our funeral doom direction, thus abandoning some of the fans who were pleased with "A Key to Panngrieb" in the first place.
9. Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
Our music is going to be heavier, include more stoner vibes, and be less symphonic. One of the goals is to make our live performances more possible, which means less instruments and musicians required to play the material. However, you'll never know where music will bring you. I'm always open to new things.
10. What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your newer music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Think of Candlemass, Saint Vitus, Electric Wizard, Virgin Black and Apocalyptica as the main influences. These days I listen to all kinds of music, as I'm a very open minded person when it comes to it. When it's good - it is good, no matter what it is. Currently my playlist includes jazz and selected tracks from various electronic artists.
11. What are some of your non musical interests?
I have created multiple websites dedicated to postapocalypse. I'm a big fan of Fallout computer game series and all related media. Fallout Encyclopaedia - come visit some times.
12. Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Music is a great tool, an international language, which is able to inspire us, bring back memories etc. Check out "Thanathonaut" - we hope it will be powerful enough to inspire and become a very individual thing for each one of you. Thanks for your time!
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