RAGE - André Hilgers Interview.
It's only a couple of days since the new RAGE album is out and André shares a few words with us!
Elias: RAGE have been active for almost 30 years now and they're considered by many a "classic" German metal band. How is the metal scene in Germany and Europe right now for older bands?
André: Better than before, we are touring a lot and have still out fans outside.
Elias: You've always experimented as a band, adding new elements to your style, even during the 80s. Do you believe that not sticking in a certain "style" has helped the band and you as musicians?
André: We always do what we want, no compromises. Maybe that is our certain style. ;-)
Elias: I know that you plan to release your next album during the next months. Is it a concept album? Should we expect harder songs or more orchestral stuff?
André: No concept album, this album is without orchester or keyboards. Its very hard, direct and powerfull.
Elias: What are the main influences for the unique style of RAGE? Is there something in particular that has influanced you a lot in the new record?
André: We always try something new. Every album has new styles, some new ideas and so on. I think that is what Rage stands for.
Elias: Not many bands dare to experiment in their music unless they have at least 4 or 5 members. Has RAGE ever considered recruiting permanently another guitar or keyboard player?
André: No.
Elias: The addition of Victor Smolski, an excellent musician, has been vital for the band and most of his guitarwork is a "music-signature" for RAGE. What should the fans expect to hear in the new record?
André: The same, Victor always work on new things, sounds, guitar licks, solos, he worked very very hard for his unique style.
Elias: Although The 90s was a bad era for metal bands, RAGE had released some of their best and most commercial works. For example "XIII" and "Ghosts" had many new elements that added up to the music of RAGE. Have you got a special project for the future, or something else in mind that you would like to try as a band?
André: We split our orchester songs now tot he Lingua Mortis Band, now we have 2 bands in one. We will record the album later this year!
Elias: We're living in the era of internet and social media. How much has internet has helped the band?
André: I think there are 2 sides oft he story. It can help the newer bands and it can damage you.
Elias: Lately we've been hearing of a "crisis in the music industry". Are things still prominent for newer as well as older bands?
André: I think we have no problem with that. But for the newer bands it is still existing.
Elias: Last year you visited Greece with Grave Digger. What are your memories from that show and what do you think of the Greek fans?
André: We love the Greek fans, very powerfull in the music. It was amazing to play for the fans there. Hope we can come back later.
Elias: You have also planned a tour with TYR and COMMUNIC. In which countries are you going to play? Do you plan to visit Greece as well?
André: No Greece is not on the list. We play all around Europe and Japan. We work on an south America and Russia tour as well.
Elias: Where do you see RAGE ten years from now?
André: I hope at the same place with a lot more albums.
André Hilgers, February 2012
