1.Hails please introduce yourselves to the readers?
Hails. We are CAULDRON BLACK RAM. You are not.
2.When did you first discover metal music and who were some of the first bands you discovered? Who are some current bands that have caught your attention?
When I was 7 or 8 years of age I got into Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Ted Nugent, Frank Zappa, AC/DC, Rose Tattoo, Beatles, Deep Purple. Current bands like Manowar have caught my attention.
3.Cauldron Black Ram was started back in 1996 when did you all get the idea to form this band? Are you satisfied with how things have progressed with the band over the years?
It was a home for the uncouth emanations that were too untoward for other 'sophisticated' bands I was involved in. Originally, I started the band with the dude from NOCTURNAL (Adelaide/Australia), but life -duty did not permit him able-bodied commitment. Once Alim joined, the guitars were tuned down and the signature sound of CBR was begat. Yes I am satisfied enough, we have played some great shows and are mostly pleased with the releases.
4.Who would you say are the bands biggest influences and have they remained the same over the years? For the readers who are unfamiliar with Cauldron Black Ram's music how do you feel it has changed over the years?
Yes they have, but over time, a long time, I found we kind of influence ourselves. We chase the 'we should have done more of this on the last album', or, 'we haven't done this yet, we should do more on the next release', or, 'why are we still sober, let's drink to sobriety!', etc. Otherwise the initial pre-emptive inspirations were Celtic Frost, Order From Chaos, Brand Belial's Key, Belial, Carcass, Nepenthe, Master's Hammer, Root and classic heavy metal too.
5.Slaver is the band's newest release which will be released through 20 Buck Spin when did you and the band first come in contact with this label?
Just prior to the intended release of Stalagmire I would guess. Hopefully, we make them some hard-earned dollars this time!
6.How long did it take the band to write the music for the new release? Does the whole band work on the music or does one member usually write everything?
Esh and Alim split the music composure roughly 50/50. We often have the songs written well in advance, but it is tough to say how long exactly. It really matters what we make of them in the final stages. And that is a specific magic between he and I borne of years.
7.Who usually handles writing the lyrics and what are some subjects written about on Slaver? Which usually comes first, the lyrics or the music?
Neither. There are lyrical concepts prior, which aid in the fouling, but overall, music rules the night. Esh/I write the lyrics and concepts. The concepts are relegated to a conceptual past. History is barely realistic, written by the victors and bent over the knee of time and propaganda. Anyone with a degree in modern history might as well tear up their certificate, and anyone with an interest in ancient history should disregard their concept of reality. That is the fashion in which the lyrics of Slaver were crafted.
8.Besides the upcoming Slaver release, are the band’s previous releases still available or other merchandise currently available? If yes what is available and where can the readers purchase it?
Well the first 2 albums have completely sold out in their original, physical formats. The Bandcamp site provides easy downloadable options. I hear there is a cassette release of Skulduggery-a-coming. And a 2nd press of the vinyl. Everything is subject to time and the possible victory of the incoming technocracy snapping at our heels and freedom.
9.Has Cauldron Black Ram had the opportunity to play very many live shows over the years? If yes what have been some of the bands most memorable shows and who are some bands you have shared the stage with?
We played on the same stage as Mortuary Drape at a festival in Holland. That was great. Very professional affair. We played a show with Destruktor in Adelaide where a massive fight broke out. I think some girl got punched in the face too. The show was fucking insane. Massive crowd and barbaric, just the way we like it.
10.When bands are able to play live again are there any shows planned in support of Slaver? Hahahahahaaa. Embrace the 'New Normal'. No-one can plan anything except muster up the will to fight. Fight or die. Flee and be a fucking slave.
11. Cauldron Black Ram comes out of the Legendary Australian blackened death metal scene. What is your opinion of the scene in Australia over the decade's?
It has shrunk. There are less bands than before. But things change. Heavy metal and thrash made a comeback. There is good and bad. It is tough to be original nowadays especially with the net that is the internet. I do not envy the work of new bands.
12.Who are your all-time favorite bands coming out of Australia? Are there any new bands you feel the readers should check out soon?
I sing in FATES HAND which I think is very cool. Members of MONGRELS CROSS and STARGAZER. Otherwise everything is kinda quiet at present. VILE APPARITION are cool.
13.Are there any honest and reliable labels and distro's you could recommend to the readers?
Most are now nowadays because there is an internet footprint. Depends on what you like. I reckon High Roller Records is great for it's range, price and reliability. Dying Victims Productions, Cruz Del Sur Productions, Shadow Kingdom Records in the USA...all I can think of right now.
14.What does Underground Metal mean to you?
The time before the internet.
15.When you need to take a break from working on new music or band business what do you like to do in your free time?
Muay Thai/Kickboxing/Kettlebells/Gymnastic Rings/Drinking. Not necessarily in that order.
16.Thank you for taking the time to fill this interview out; do you have any final comments for the readers?
Good luck with the New World Order.
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