Forseti lebt! / Forseti is Still Alive!
Posted a year agoHail there,
I heard that Andres is doing quite well now. His mother said that unfortunately he doesn't know how to play instruments anymore, but he smiles a lot. I think Neofolk put the power in his heart, Forseti is alive!
Perhaps this info is interesting for these, who listen often to Forseti.For me, this music fill my heart full of impressions and the com are comrades and friendship is strong.Neofolk is friendship, that is, what it's is for me.
Through this realy dark times we need a hand to hold and this is why i never will forget the project Forseti.This is in my heart for ever and Andres too and he's alive, that's the thing.
Hope you're all save, take take and take care for fam and comrades.
Best regards, Shinma
I heard that Andres is doing quite well now. His mother said that unfortunately he doesn't know how to play instruments anymore, but he smiles a lot. I think Neofolk put the power in his heart, Forseti is alive!
Perhaps this info is interesting for these, who listen often to Forseti.For me, this music fill my heart full of impressions and the com are comrades and friendship is strong.Neofolk is friendship, that is, what it's is for me.
Through this realy dark times we need a hand to hold and this is why i never will forget the project Forseti.This is in my heart for ever and Andres too and he's alive, that's the thing.
Hope you're all save, take take and take care for fam and comrades.
Best regards, Shinma
300 Members
Posted 3 years agoHail neofolk furs,
It is exciting to announce that Neofolkfurs now has 300 members, thus reaching a new milestone. It is wonderful knowing that furs still take an interest in this music genre, with others even deciding to go further and join this group. The world is going through a dark time and it is my hope that those who discover this music can listen and find solace in its ancient sounding melodies. Thanks again to everyone who continues to enjoy and support neofolk!
It is exciting to announce that Neofolkfurs now has 300 members, thus reaching a new milestone. It is wonderful knowing that furs still take an interest in this music genre, with others even deciding to go further and join this group. The world is going through a dark time and it is my hope that those who discover this music can listen and find solace in its ancient sounding melodies. Thanks again to everyone who continues to enjoy and support neofolk!
10,000 Page Views
Posted 5 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Once again, I am excited to announce that Neofolkfurs has now reached 10,000 page views! It is very interesting that this group has obtained so many views, considering the rather obscure nature of the neofolk music scene. Also amazing is the fact that more furs are continuing to join and become part of the community. As always, your membership within the group is appreciated. I would like to thank everyone for their support. It is because of your ongoing interest that neofolk will continue to thrive.
Once again, I am excited to announce that Neofolkfurs has now reached 10,000 page views! It is very interesting that this group has obtained so many views, considering the rather obscure nature of the neofolk music scene. Also amazing is the fact that more furs are continuing to join and become part of the community. As always, your membership within the group is appreciated. I would like to thank everyone for their support. It is because of your ongoing interest that neofolk will continue to thrive.
Group Update
Posted 5 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Because it has been awhile since any journal entries have been submitted, we just would like to inform everyone that this group page has been updated and continues to be updated as needed. For example, all journal entries have been checked for any outdated links, which have been removed. With that said, if you see anything amiss, do not hesitate to send a private message explaining the issue. This group page is checked almost every day.
Because it has been awhile since any journal entries have been submitted, we just would like to inform everyone that this group page has been updated and continues to be updated as needed. For example, all journal entries have been checked for any outdated links, which have been removed. With that said, if you see anything amiss, do not hesitate to send a private message explaining the issue. This group page is checked almost every day.
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 7
Posted 6 years agoHere are more bands that have featured neofolk at one point or another in their music careers:
Wodensthrone - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AVmXzGH0nE
Edieh - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qun8SPBFp3g
Fen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tju5GXDjf50
Winterfylleth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2y1yqK5ozNs
Skyforger - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-kXSv08xVI
Primordial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz_G7ARNScA
Wodensthrone - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AVmXzGH0nE
Edieh - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qun8SPBFp3g
Fen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tju5GXDjf50
Winterfylleth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2y1yqK5ozNs
Skyforger - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-kXSv08xVI
Primordial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz_G7ARNScA
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 6
Posted 6 years agoAnd here is another list of several metal bands that have played neofolk music:
Agalloch - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIp8RJY2yUA
Empyrium - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcJzszo7Xnw
October Falls - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytI-1oNO020
Dornenreich - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMF7Rjn2-lQ
Novembers Doom - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFgkLLQ-r2Y
Nechochwen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxzxWU3Fg7o
Agalloch - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIp8RJY2yUA
Empyrium - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcJzszo7Xnw
October Falls - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytI-1oNO020
Dornenreich - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMF7Rjn2-lQ
Novembers Doom - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFgkLLQ-r2Y
Nechochwen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxzxWU3Fg7o
Neofolk Around the World
Posted 7 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Ever since neofolk first began in England back in the 1980's, the music genre has grown, slowly spreading across the world. It is rather surprising where certain bands have developed, considering the esoteric nature of this particular music scene. Though, with increasing access to the Internet, more and more people around the planet are likely discovering neofolk and taking an interest in it as well. Therefore, in an effort to keep track of where neofolk bands have formed, the following is a list of countries containing known bands along with their respective names:
Argentina
Igniis, Kutna Hora
Australia
Strength Through Joy
Austria
Graumahd, Jahrtal, Jannerwein, Klammheim, Novy Svet, Stein, Sturmpercht, The Moon Lay Hidden Beneath a Cloud
Belarus
Dalina, Osterweg
Belgium
Art of Empathy, Kiss the Anus of a Black Cat
Brazil
Olam Ein Sof
Bulgaria
Eriney, Irfan, Isihia, Kayno Yesno Slonce
Canada
Anilah, Musk Ox, Night Profound, Ulvesang
Chile
Imbaru
China
Raflum, Vergissmeinnicht
Croatia
Cor Solis
Denmark
Die Weisse Rose, Of the Wand & the Moon, Othala, Solanaceae
Finland
Aura Shining Green, Cataplus, Erdgeist, Harmaa, Hexvessel, Hyine, Loitsu, Nest, Pohjatuulet, Pyha Kuolema, Subaudition, Syven, Taival, Tenhi, Tuhat Kuolemaa Sekunnissa
France
Ainulindale, Gae Bolg, Opium Dream Estate, Ordo Equitum Solis, Pale Roses, Seven Pines, Stille Volk
Germany
Aeldaborn, Aeterna, Art Abscons, Aurum Nostrum, Belborn, Berkana, Carved in Stone, Dannagoischd, Darkwood, Death in Rome, Dies Natalis, Elane, Ernte, Falkenstein, Faun, Forseti, Gegentum, Golgatha, Hagalaz' Runedance, Hekate, Leger des Heils, Maenui, Mars, Naudhiz, Nebelhexe, Nebelkorona, Nebelung, Neun Welten, Novalis Deux, Orplid, Primus Inter Pares, Qntal, Sagittarius, Sava, Seelenthron, Sonne Hagal, Sonnentau, Tempesta Noire, Traum'er Leben, Trinithos, TriORE, Vurgart, Walden, Waldtraene, Werkraum, Werra, Woljager
Greece
Daemonia Nymphe, Mani Deum
Hungary
Cawatana, Larrnakh, Scivias, The Moon and the Nightspirit, Woodland Choir
Iran
Oado
Israel
Agnivolok
Italy
Albireon, Argine, Ataraxia, Camerata Mediolanense, Corde Oblique, Egida Aurea, Foresta di Ferro, Hautville, Ianva, Inner Glory, Kleingott, Lupi Gladius, Oniric, Roma Amor, Rose Rovine e Amanti, Spiritual Front, Stroszek, Tears of Othila, The Green Man, Umbra Aevi, Varunna
Latvia
Enu Kaleidoskops
Lithuania
Donis, Gyvata, Kulgrinda, Romowe Rikoito, Spanxti, Vilkduja
Luxembourg
Rome
Netherlands
Omnia, Osewoudt, Sowulo, Strydwolf
Norway
Byrdi, Eliwagar, Havnatt, Naervaer, Vali, Wardruna, Weh
Poland
By the Spirits, Jar, Ludola, Piorun, Zywiolak
Portugal
Dwelling, Lyfia, Old Village, Sangre Cavallum, The Joy of Nature, Urze de Lume
Romania
Din Brad
Russia
Forest Dance, Kreiviskai, Krynitza, Moon Far Away, Neutral, Sadko, Shadegrown, Skolot, Sunset Wings, Vedan Kolod, Waldsonne, Water Wind
Serbia
Kinovia
Spain
An Danzza, Arnica, L'Ham de Foc, Narsilion, Ordo Funebris, Sangre de Muerdago, Trobar de Morte, Ulmus
Sweden
Down in June, Ebon Lore, Forndom, Hamnskifte, Leidungr, Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio, Solblot, Stormfagel, Sub Luna
Switzerland
Frakmundt
United Kingdom
Cunnan, Current 93, Death in June, Fire + Ice, Kunstgerecht, Lady Morphia, Myrninerest, Naevus, Nature and Organisation, Orchis, Ostara, Pinknruby, Scorpion Wind, Sieben, Sol Invictus, The Hare and the Moon, The Owl Service, The Winding Stair, Venereum Arvum, While Angels Watch, Wolcensmen
United States
Alethes, Arrowwood, Backworld, Birch Book, Blood and Sun, Blood Axis, Cedar Spirits, Changes, Cult of Youth, Et Nihil, Fearthainne, Fjord, Green Mistletoe, Harvest Rain, Horse Feathers, In Gowan Ring, In Ruin, In the Sea of Trees, King Dude, Kinit Her, Luftwaffe, Lux Interna, Murzik, Novemthree, Osi and the Jupiter, Rota Fortunae, Runes Upon Oak, Shattered Hand, Silver Summit, Splinterskin, Stone Breath, Sun and Moon Dance, The Soil Bleeds Black, Unto Ashes, Waldteufel, Wounded Violets, Wreathes
Ever since neofolk first began in England back in the 1980's, the music genre has grown, slowly spreading across the world. It is rather surprising where certain bands have developed, considering the esoteric nature of this particular music scene. Though, with increasing access to the Internet, more and more people around the planet are likely discovering neofolk and taking an interest in it as well. Therefore, in an effort to keep track of where neofolk bands have formed, the following is a list of countries containing known bands along with their respective names:
Argentina
Igniis, Kutna Hora
-
Australia
Strength Through Joy
-
Austria
Graumahd, Jahrtal, Jannerwein, Klammheim, Novy Svet, Stein, Sturmpercht, The Moon Lay Hidden Beneath a Cloud
-
Belarus
Dalina, Osterweg
-
Belgium
Art of Empathy, Kiss the Anus of a Black Cat
-
Brazil
Olam Ein Sof
-
Bulgaria
Eriney, Irfan, Isihia, Kayno Yesno Slonce
-
Canada
Anilah, Musk Ox, Night Profound, Ulvesang
-
Chile
Imbaru
-
China
Raflum, Vergissmeinnicht
-
Croatia
Cor Solis
-
Denmark
Die Weisse Rose, Of the Wand & the Moon, Othala, Solanaceae
-
Finland
Aura Shining Green, Cataplus, Erdgeist, Harmaa, Hexvessel, Hyine, Loitsu, Nest, Pohjatuulet, Pyha Kuolema, Subaudition, Syven, Taival, Tenhi, Tuhat Kuolemaa Sekunnissa
-
France
Ainulindale, Gae Bolg, Opium Dream Estate, Ordo Equitum Solis, Pale Roses, Seven Pines, Stille Volk
-
Germany
Aeldaborn, Aeterna, Art Abscons, Aurum Nostrum, Belborn, Berkana, Carved in Stone, Dannagoischd, Darkwood, Death in Rome, Dies Natalis, Elane, Ernte, Falkenstein, Faun, Forseti, Gegentum, Golgatha, Hagalaz' Runedance, Hekate, Leger des Heils, Maenui, Mars, Naudhiz, Nebelhexe, Nebelkorona, Nebelung, Neun Welten, Novalis Deux, Orplid, Primus Inter Pares, Qntal, Sagittarius, Sava, Seelenthron, Sonne Hagal, Sonnentau, Tempesta Noire, Traum'er Leben, Trinithos, TriORE, Vurgart, Walden, Waldtraene, Werkraum, Werra, Woljager
-
Greece
Daemonia Nymphe, Mani Deum
-
Hungary
Cawatana, Larrnakh, Scivias, The Moon and the Nightspirit, Woodland Choir
-
Iran
Oado
-
Israel
Agnivolok
-
Italy
Albireon, Argine, Ataraxia, Camerata Mediolanense, Corde Oblique, Egida Aurea, Foresta di Ferro, Hautville, Ianva, Inner Glory, Kleingott, Lupi Gladius, Oniric, Roma Amor, Rose Rovine e Amanti, Spiritual Front, Stroszek, Tears of Othila, The Green Man, Umbra Aevi, Varunna
-
Latvia
Enu Kaleidoskops
-
Lithuania
Donis, Gyvata, Kulgrinda, Romowe Rikoito, Spanxti, Vilkduja
-
Luxembourg
Rome
-
Netherlands
Omnia, Osewoudt, Sowulo, Strydwolf
-
Norway
Byrdi, Eliwagar, Havnatt, Naervaer, Vali, Wardruna, Weh
-
Poland
By the Spirits, Jar, Ludola, Piorun, Zywiolak
-
Portugal
Dwelling, Lyfia, Old Village, Sangre Cavallum, The Joy of Nature, Urze de Lume
-
Romania
Din Brad
-
Russia
Forest Dance, Kreiviskai, Krynitza, Moon Far Away, Neutral, Sadko, Shadegrown, Skolot, Sunset Wings, Vedan Kolod, Waldsonne, Water Wind
-
Serbia
Kinovia
-
Spain
An Danzza, Arnica, L'Ham de Foc, Narsilion, Ordo Funebris, Sangre de Muerdago, Trobar de Morte, Ulmus
-
Sweden
Down in June, Ebon Lore, Forndom, Hamnskifte, Leidungr, Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio, Solblot, Stormfagel, Sub Luna
-
Switzerland
Frakmundt
-
United Kingdom
Cunnan, Current 93, Death in June, Fire + Ice, Kunstgerecht, Lady Morphia, Myrninerest, Naevus, Nature and Organisation, Orchis, Ostara, Pinknruby, Scorpion Wind, Sieben, Sol Invictus, The Hare and the Moon, The Owl Service, The Winding Stair, Venereum Arvum, While Angels Watch, Wolcensmen
-
United States
Alethes, Arrowwood, Backworld, Birch Book, Blood and Sun, Blood Axis, Cedar Spirits, Changes, Cult of Youth, Et Nihil, Fearthainne, Fjord, Green Mistletoe, Harvest Rain, Horse Feathers, In Gowan Ring, In Ruin, In the Sea of Trees, King Dude, Kinit Her, Luftwaffe, Lux Interna, Murzik, Novemthree, Osi and the Jupiter, Rota Fortunae, Runes Upon Oak, Shattered Hand, Silver Summit, Splinterskin, Stone Breath, Sun and Moon Dance, The Soil Bleeds Black, Unto Ashes, Waldteufel, Wounded Violets, Wreathes
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 5
Posted 7 years agoOnce again, here is a list of more metal bands that also play neofolk music:
Odroerir - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgGkEiAcfJg
Gallowbraid - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obA9u8JvQHo
Sig:Ar:Tyr - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LZBkaAF-Ac
Deep Mountains - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYhfmYOEDeA
Panopticon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgMKIZN7Yio
Moonsorrow - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZB2gsYhn6I
Odroerir - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgGkEiAcfJg
Gallowbraid - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obA9u8JvQHo
Sig:Ar:Tyr - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LZBkaAF-Ac
Deep Mountains - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYhfmYOEDeA
Panopticon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgMKIZN7Yio
Moonsorrow - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZB2gsYhn6I
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 4
Posted 7 years agoHere is yet another list of metal bands that also play neofolk music:
Evergreen Refuge - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnnHkxmGLuI
Opeth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhP5X8sQF8
Bucovina - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4Z9_Gq1BjU
Lord Belial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bxKJOCEPos
Windhand - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYWk6MmhOAw
Herbst - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCDOELsgjQI
Evergreen Refuge - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnnHkxmGLuI
Opeth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhP5X8sQF8
Bucovina - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4Z9_Gq1BjU
Lord Belial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bxKJOCEPos
Windhand - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYWk6MmhOAw
Herbst - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCDOELsgjQI
200 Members
Posted 8 years agoHail neofolk furs,
I am pleased to announce that Neofolkfurs has now reached 200 members! Once again, an important milestone has been reached. This is a great indication that the interest in neofolk continues to grow. I would like to thank everyone that has joined and made this achievement possible. Your membership is always appreciated!
I am pleased to announce that Neofolkfurs has now reached 200 members! Once again, an important milestone has been reached. This is a great indication that the interest in neofolk continues to grow. I would like to thank everyone that has joined and made this achievement possible. Your membership is always appreciated!
5000 Page Views
Posted 8 years agoHail neofolk furs,
I am pleased to announce that Neofolkfurs has now reached 5000 page views! This shows how the group is growing as a community for fans of neofolk as well as those who are simply interested in the music genre. I would like to thank everyone, both old and new comers, for your support of this group. It is because of you that neofolk will continue to flourish within the underground music scene.
I am pleased to announce that Neofolkfurs has now reached 5000 page views! This shows how the group is growing as a community for fans of neofolk as well as those who are simply interested in the music genre. I would like to thank everyone, both old and new comers, for your support of this group. It is because of you that neofolk will continue to flourish within the underground music scene.
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 3
Posted 8 years agoHere is another list of metal bands that have also played neofolk music:
Alda - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6h-4NySHaTY
Germanen Blut - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM0daib7q_U
Heidevolk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMou4TIBUXw
Bathory - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NargAMawwBA
Woods of Ypres - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEXYq6O43L4
Drudkh - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq3TiZAnGyQ
Alda - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6h-4NySHaTY
Germanen Blut - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM0daib7q_U
Heidevolk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMou4TIBUXw
Bathory - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NargAMawwBA
Woods of Ypres - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEXYq6O43L4
Drudkh - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq3TiZAnGyQ
Happy Saint Patrick's Day
Posted 9 years agoHail neofolk furs,
I am writing to wish everyone a happy Saint Patrick's Day. Besides all of the parades and merriment, this holiday also exposes us to the history and culture of Ireland. Within the neofolk circle, such aspects of a country play an important role in the music. Therefore, if you have a chance, set aside some time today and read a little bit about Ireland. Anyway, here are some Irish tunes played by neofolk bands:
Rising of the Moon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5it4pHBtkEo
The March of Brian Boru - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWNZfTwZVzw
Follow Me Up to Carlow - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGZjKzOPXIQ
The Well - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyuJSS2zF-o
Slainte!
I am writing to wish everyone a happy Saint Patrick's Day. Besides all of the parades and merriment, this holiday also exposes us to the history and culture of Ireland. Within the neofolk circle, such aspects of a country play an important role in the music. Therefore, if you have a chance, set aside some time today and read a little bit about Ireland. Anyway, here are some Irish tunes played by neofolk bands:
Rising of the Moon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5it4pHBtkEo
The March of Brian Boru - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWNZfTwZVzw
Follow Me Up to Carlow - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGZjKzOPXIQ
The Well - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyuJSS2zF-o
Slainte!
Art Abscons - Spektral Magik (Free Download)
Posted 9 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Art Abscons is offering their album, Spektral Magik, for free again! You can download it for free or spend a little to donate, if you support this artist.
Download here:
http://artabscons.bandcamp.com/albu.....-free-download
Tracks:
1. Somnium I (3:44)
2. Somnium II (3:41)
3. Somnium III (4:00)
4. Somnium IV (4:42)
5. Somnium V (5:16)
6. Somnium VI (3:15)
7. Somnium VII (13:52)
"Irony is the clear consciousness of eternal agility, of an infinitely teeming chaos." ~ Friedrich Schlegel
I come from the abyss of time and space. Life is abscons. Why not art? If a question is asked with the aim of confusing, the answer must disconcert the questioner. Each particle has its doppelganger at the other end of the universe to which it is linked by abscons forces. These particles act like mirror images. If one is capable of detecting the invisible strings which connect them, they can be brought together just by pulling those strings. Once they meet at the mirror surface, they become one, and the energy we so far obtain from thermo-nuclear fusion is ten times nothing in comparison to the energy obtained from the fusion of doppelganger entities.
Such is the force of contradiction. Since the energetic strings which tie the universe together do not only run through space, but also through time, everything you do or think in the present is not only affecting the future but also the past. Each time you read a book, no matter how old, it will be written afresh and change its meaning. Each time you behold a flower it is you who creates it and who lends it beauty. It is the constant awareness of this creative capacity which constitutes the basis for Spektral Magik to which the correlation of spectral colours, musical notes, the visible objects in the solar system and the days of the week is an essential key.
Credits:
Released September 6th, 2008
Featuring: Art Abscons, Véra W'r..H, Patricia Rubio
Art Abscons is offering their album, Spektral Magik, for free again! You can download it for free or spend a little to donate, if you support this artist.
Download here:
http://artabscons.bandcamp.com/albu.....-free-download
Tracks:
1. Somnium I (3:44)
2. Somnium II (3:41)
3. Somnium III (4:00)
4. Somnium IV (4:42)
5. Somnium V (5:16)
6. Somnium VI (3:15)
7. Somnium VII (13:52)
"Irony is the clear consciousness of eternal agility, of an infinitely teeming chaos." ~ Friedrich Schlegel
I come from the abyss of time and space. Life is abscons. Why not art? If a question is asked with the aim of confusing, the answer must disconcert the questioner. Each particle has its doppelganger at the other end of the universe to which it is linked by abscons forces. These particles act like mirror images. If one is capable of detecting the invisible strings which connect them, they can be brought together just by pulling those strings. Once they meet at the mirror surface, they become one, and the energy we so far obtain from thermo-nuclear fusion is ten times nothing in comparison to the energy obtained from the fusion of doppelganger entities.
Such is the force of contradiction. Since the energetic strings which tie the universe together do not only run through space, but also through time, everything you do or think in the present is not only affecting the future but also the past. Each time you read a book, no matter how old, it will be written afresh and change its meaning. Each time you behold a flower it is you who creates it and who lends it beauty. It is the constant awareness of this creative capacity which constitutes the basis for Spektral Magik to which the correlation of spectral colours, musical notes, the visible objects in the solar system and the days of the week is an essential key.
Credits:
Released September 6th, 2008
Featuring: Art Abscons, Véra W'r..H, Patricia Rubio
Favorite Aspects of Neofolk
Posted 10 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Out of curiosity, what is it about neofolk music that appeals to you?
Out of curiosity, what is it about neofolk music that appeals to you?
White Music for White People?
Posted 10 years agoHail neofolk furs,
When searching for neofolk bands, I often see them labeled as being white music for white people. What is your opinion of this statement?
Just so everyone knows, Neofolkfurs does not favor any particular race. It is open to all furs and shall always remain that way.
When searching for neofolk bands, I often see them labeled as being white music for white people. What is your opinion of this statement?
Just so everyone knows, Neofolkfurs does not favor any particular race. It is open to all furs and shall always remain that way.
Sol Invictus Live in Dresden, Germany
Posted 10 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Sol Invictus will be performing in Dresden, Germany on July 26, 2014. It's an interesting concert with very notable bands, including Darkwood and Job Karma. If you don't live in Germany, but will be on vacation there, visit this concert. It will be great. I will be there too. Hope to meet you there.
Concert flyer:
http://666kb.com/i/cnwadvqbdyfrb4jkf.jpg
Sol Invictus will be performing in Dresden, Germany on July 26, 2014. It's an interesting concert with very notable bands, including Darkwood and Job Karma. If you don't live in Germany, but will be on vacation there, visit this concert. It will be great. I will be there too. Hope to meet you there.
Concert flyer:
http://666kb.com/i/cnwadvqbdyfrb4jkf.jpg
Member List
Posted 10 years agoHail neofolk furs,
In appreciation for everyone who has joined the Neofolkfurs group, the following is a list of our members. This list will be updated as new furs join the group.
-Foxen
-Trash-
7FoxFire
9ShadowFire
Abilify
AdrianTheFox
AetherWarrior
Aiky-poo
Akhetnu
Alexraymond006
Amaroq_Dricaldari
ANPUemsaf-666
Antamba
Apple-Seeds
AreYouTyler
Arccitius
Arikla
Armadyl1453
Armess
Artworktee
Arus_Paege
Arygwen
Aschenblute
AshtonCorgi
AtlasImperial
Atum.scythe
Avientus
Azaerus
AzureParagon
Bancky
Banterpup
BardicHorse
Beast-Storm
BehindTheLens
Bellylouver
Big-Brother-Projekt
Biohazard_gothfox
BjornNordlicht
Blackmist-Squamata
Bloodwolf667
Bluari
Bram-Diabolus
CachorroSenhorTorrao
Caravanheart
Casen
CaveMahon
Cerg321
Cervinesatyr
Chandlervaldes
Chazenji
Chelonianmobile
Chemistryfurs
Chiiovanni
Chomatose
Classicalfurs
Clockwork-starborn
Clubfurmen
Coffemosh
Coleblueeyeshusky562
CommunistDwarf
Convel_Firesong
Corgi-on
Corneus
Corvus-Corax
Corwinenguerrand
Crashley
Cuggybur
Cujo_Hunter
CunningWise
Czarina-Aesir
D1sease
Dander_Woods
Dangerwood
DarkForest
DarkLutra
DarkTaggr
Darvim92
Deadrussiansoul
Dean_Blitz
Deathlight
Dee4doa
DeeMendesArt
Demon-Wolf2
Desolateadversary
DiorionArh
DireBeastRexh
Dishonerable
DracoHuskyFolf
DracosDerpyHoof
Dragonebeta
Drapigney
Dreamfurs
Dresmseed
DruidFurs
Duhred
Duir
Duncish
DungeonSynthFurs
DustyyWolf
Eco_rynx
EinheriValhoell
Eldingar
ElinaFedotova
EliteDoberman
Emofurs
Emrys_The_Hound
Eternal.knot
Enzo_Frost
EugeneVictor
Ezno
FA-groups
FA-Guitarists
FAGroups
FadedColors_the_Metal_Head
Fallofhuman
FauxPawsofDesire
Felis_Highlander
FennecBoi
Fenriswolf91DE
FinianWren
FinWolfsky
FlamingHazard
FlannelShirt
Fluffyfurrybutt
ForsetiFox
FosterTheFox
Fox_Patch
Foxpiper
Fractilion
FrozenTime
Fuffyfox
Funai
Furry_musicians
FursOfTheMistyPath
Gadamlu
GerolThera5
GladionTheOtter
Gnash.Hyena
GoatyGalaxo
Grausig
Greenflame27
GreyLion
GRIMMInsanity
GRUGGMAN
Gustav_Hansen
H3rzbau
Hagall
HappySatyr
Hellkid5500
Hiigememe
Hotfudgehusky
HowlinHeathen
HundEdelweiss
Hurlelune12
Icelandicsheep
IgnarHusky11
IllusionFox
Iluliaq
Intensofox
Ironagewafflenator
Ivikk
IzziBeth2021
JackalSaleen
Jhonarowr
Jakkalstrou
Javierman
Jay-Brush
JeanTheBuck
Jesusfish2007
Jmsozzy
Jotunn
Juana-the-Husky
JudasWolf
JustADonkey
Kaarlo
Kaithefoxdragon
Kane_Enyo
KeenanTheBunny
KenderMistik
Keyla_Otter
Kidja
Kilb871
KiritoMikado
Kitzy_Isaac
Kokkuburokku
Kosmosdrake
Kreed_Darkwater
Kveldr.Evening.Wolf
Lazurerl
LekoBluefang
LevitatingShoes
Ligynkey
Liskowic
Littlefoxboi
LM_Vlkz
LoknathLuxman
Louvelex
Lozforfun
Lunawaves
Lunarwolf
Lynsdeyblack12
LyraAlluse
M-ree
Macha
Malicious_Mouse
Malmichschwarz
Marmee
MarshmallowBun
Masonbluefox
MaximusAstori-Wolfheart
Meekcon
MetalheadsnTails
MewlesVerne
Mikamenko
Mitchell
MommaSelk
Moosher12
MorBlood
Morkulfr
Motel1500
Musingfornoreason
Mystical-Furs
MysticMidnightRealm
Nagir
Nargaroth
Nargothrond
Nature-lovers
Necroribs
Nefermose
Neonhowls
NeonNyan747
Nepharite
Nevelo
NicoStahl
Nightforestcat
NikaInfinity
Niki_Wracz
NiveusCelestialFox
Noctiel
NoctisIgnem
Nokken_and_the_Grim
NoNeedToThankMe
Notostapk
Obsidianfox6336
OdinsWolfFreki
Onic
Osgar
Otterplop
OwenKemp
Oxckeper
Pancakewitch
Paperoni
PariahLycan
Passiflorum
PatchTheFox
Peacocknavyblue
Pejeverdo
Pelt_silversmith
Peppermint_Butthole
Persephone09
PestKater
Pfhor
Pharkle
PijanyLeszek
Pollypuma
Poperagnarthefirst
Puaro
PuddleofSky
Putrid
Raenheld
Raiden-Silverfox
Raiju
Ralliron
Ratmage
Raven_Wolf2020
Rdltkot
Reddragonjewlrey
Reignmaker
RennisTora
Retroolka
Renzo-petrucci
Rezavax
Riiya
Rio2
Rommel9
RooksOwl
Rosen_Ablis
Rover-Marek
Rowan_Foxcoon
SamashTommy
Sanjiva
SasukeLightningCloud
Scalie_Substance
Scisorsgarden
Screamofurs
Sekkral
Sezhan
ShadeChaos
ShadowCommando
Shadowdragon112
Shadowfang7
Shamanfurs
Shinma
Siberia_Tigra
SIeep123
Siekae
Siggy_Graylock
Sigmund.Hvittann
SilverBehemoth
SirCanidLunatic
Skogi
Skunkishblue
Sleepy-leo
SnowVolkolak
Soczahn
Solitarywoods
Son_of_Ireland
Space_il_ladro_di_pollo
Stardom7
StealthL01
Storm.x.Crow
Stovl
Strawberry-wolf-girl
Struggler
Sulacoyote
Sun_Burnt_Wolf
Syrinx_Kitty
Syrlinger
TailorMadeNord
Tannou
Taro_Anderson
Tarzimon
TeaCat
Teashack
Tellurian-Taxidea
Terpshiche
Terri_Rolf
TharosROF
TheCelestialDemoness
TheCossack
TheFianna
Thegranter
TheHuntingWolf
The-Ironwing-Kaiser
TheNorthernWolf
TheOttBuster
The-Puppet-Master
TheVikingBoar
TheWiccansGlare
Thrasherscolin
ThrashFanBert94
Thrashocutionist
TicTak
TigerJaw
Tigertigre
TippyDeVil
Tolkien-Fur
TorasukeDK
TriforceDragon
Triptykon
Tsukiyomi-sakura
Tubinho
Turgius
Tusk
Twang
Twistgryphon
Tyger_the_tigerwolf
UlricKessler
UlvenWolf
Valceni_The_Sergal
Vasory88
Vaterspinne
Vatz
Venti_Sunbutt
Vespertine
Vibgyor
VickyV
Villdyret
Void-Creature
Voindragon
Vulfila
Vulpecularity
Vulpine_of_Kargonash
Wadmodder Schantston
Waffenmeister
WatcherOfAll
Whitefeathersrain
WickedNoxxx
Wojta
Wolf~FoxForever91
WoLf2Tails
WolfAdokah
Wolfknight777
Wolfmarines
Woozer
XHolyTerrorKidx
Xisqu
XP_Dragon
XVTSWx
xXx-prizim-xXx
Yukari420
ZakharKrallenfang
Zelripheth
Zhaarteth
Zootopia777
Zytonidae
~Illumination~
~Kloudi~
In appreciation for everyone who has joined the Neofolkfurs group, the following is a list of our members. This list will be updated as new furs join the group.
-Foxen
-Trash-
7FoxFire
9ShadowFire
-
Abilify
AdrianTheFox
AetherWarrior
Aiky-poo
Akhetnu
Alexraymond006
Amaroq_Dricaldari
ANPUemsaf-666
Antamba
Apple-Seeds
AreYouTyler
Arccitius
Arikla
Armadyl1453
Armess
Artworktee
Arus_Paege
Arygwen
Aschenblute
AshtonCorgi
AtlasImperial
Atum.scythe
Avientus
Azaerus
AzureParagon
-
Bancky
Banterpup
BardicHorse
Beast-Storm
BehindTheLens
Bellylouver
Big-Brother-Projekt
Biohazard_gothfox
BjornNordlicht
Blackmist-Squamata
Bloodwolf667
Bluari
Bram-Diabolus
-
CachorroSenhorTorrao
Caravanheart
Casen
CaveMahon
Cerg321
Cervinesatyr
Chandlervaldes
Chazenji
Chelonianmobile
Chemistryfurs
Chiiovanni
Chomatose
Classicalfurs
Clockwork-starborn
Clubfurmen
Coffemosh
Coleblueeyeshusky562
CommunistDwarf
Convel_Firesong
Corgi-on
Corneus
Corvus-Corax
Corwinenguerrand
Crashley
Cuggybur
Cujo_Hunter
CunningWise
Czarina-Aesir
-
D1sease
Dander_Woods
Dangerwood
DarkForest
DarkLutra
DarkTaggr
Darvim92
Deadrussiansoul
Dean_Blitz
Deathlight
Dee4doa
DeeMendesArt
Demon-Wolf2
Desolateadversary
DiorionArh
DireBeastRexh
Dishonerable
DracoHuskyFolf
DracosDerpyHoof
Dragonebeta
Drapigney
Dreamfurs
Dresmseed
DruidFurs
Duhred
Duir
Duncish
DungeonSynthFurs
DustyyWolf
-
Eco_rynx
EinheriValhoell
Eldingar
ElinaFedotova
EliteDoberman
Emofurs
Emrys_The_Hound
Eternal.knot
Enzo_Frost
EugeneVictor
Ezno
-
FA-groups
FA-Guitarists
FAGroups
FadedColors_the_Metal_Head
Fallofhuman
FauxPawsofDesire
Felis_Highlander
FennecBoi
Fenriswolf91DE
FinianWren
FinWolfsky
FlamingHazard
FlannelShirt
Fluffyfurrybutt
ForsetiFox
FosterTheFox
Fox_Patch
Foxpiper
Fractilion
FrozenTime
Fuffyfox
Funai
Furry_musicians
FursOfTheMistyPath
-
Gadamlu
GerolThera5
GladionTheOtter
Gnash.Hyena
GoatyGalaxo
Grausig
Greenflame27
GreyLion
GRIMMInsanity
GRUGGMAN
Gustav_Hansen
-
H3rzbau
Hagall
HappySatyr
Hellkid5500
Hiigememe
Hotfudgehusky
HowlinHeathen
HundEdelweiss
Hurlelune12
-
Icelandicsheep
IgnarHusky11
IllusionFox
Iluliaq
Intensofox
Ironagewafflenator
Ivikk
IzziBeth2021
-
JackalSaleen
Jhonarowr
Jakkalstrou
Javierman
Jay-Brush
JeanTheBuck
Jesusfish2007
Jmsozzy
Jotunn
Juana-the-Husky
JudasWolf
JustADonkey
-
Kaarlo
Kaithefoxdragon
Kane_Enyo
KeenanTheBunny
KenderMistik
Keyla_Otter
Kidja
Kilb871
KiritoMikado
Kitzy_Isaac
Kokkuburokku
Kosmosdrake
Kreed_Darkwater
Kveldr.Evening.Wolf
-
Lazurerl
LekoBluefang
LevitatingShoes
Ligynkey
Liskowic
Littlefoxboi
LM_Vlkz
LoknathLuxman
Louvelex
Lozforfun
Lunawaves
Lunarwolf
Lynsdeyblack12
LyraAlluse
-
M-ree
Macha
Malicious_Mouse
Malmichschwarz
Marmee
MarshmallowBun
Masonbluefox
MaximusAstori-Wolfheart
Meekcon
MetalheadsnTails
MewlesVerne
Mikamenko
Mitchell
MommaSelk
Moosher12
MorBlood
Morkulfr
Motel1500
Musingfornoreason
Mystical-Furs
MysticMidnightRealm
-
Nagir
Nargaroth
Nargothrond
Nature-lovers
Necroribs
Nefermose
Neonhowls
NeonNyan747
Nepharite
Nevelo
NicoStahl
Nightforestcat
NikaInfinity
Niki_Wracz
NiveusCelestialFox
Noctiel
NoctisIgnem
Nokken_and_the_Grim
NoNeedToThankMe
Notostapk
-
Obsidianfox6336
OdinsWolfFreki
Onic
Osgar
Otterplop
OwenKemp
Oxckeper
-
Pancakewitch
Paperoni
PariahLycan
Passiflorum
PatchTheFox
Peacocknavyblue
Pejeverdo
Pelt_silversmith
Peppermint_Butthole
Persephone09
PestKater
Pfhor
Pharkle
PijanyLeszek
Pollypuma
Poperagnarthefirst
Puaro
PuddleofSky
Putrid
-
Raenheld
Raiden-Silverfox
Raiju
Ralliron
Ratmage
Raven_Wolf2020
Rdltkot
Reddragonjewlrey
Reignmaker
RennisTora
Retroolka
Renzo-petrucci
Rezavax
Riiya
Rio2
Rommel9
RooksOwl
Rosen_Ablis
Rover-Marek
Rowan_Foxcoon
-
SamashTommy
Sanjiva
SasukeLightningCloud
Scalie_Substance
Scisorsgarden
Screamofurs
Sekkral
Sezhan
ShadeChaos
ShadowCommando
Shadowdragon112
Shadowfang7
Shamanfurs
Shinma
Siberia_Tigra
SIeep123
Siekae
Siggy_Graylock
Sigmund.Hvittann
SilverBehemoth
SirCanidLunatic
Skogi
Skunkishblue
Sleepy-leo
SnowVolkolak
Soczahn
Solitarywoods
Son_of_Ireland
Space_il_ladro_di_pollo
Stardom7
StealthL01
Storm.x.Crow
Stovl
Strawberry-wolf-girl
Struggler
Sulacoyote
Sun_Burnt_Wolf
Syrinx_Kitty
Syrlinger
-
TailorMadeNord
Tannou
Taro_Anderson
Tarzimon
TeaCat
Teashack
Tellurian-Taxidea
Terpshiche
Terri_Rolf
TharosROF
TheCelestialDemoness
TheCossack
TheFianna
Thegranter
TheHuntingWolf
The-Ironwing-Kaiser
TheNorthernWolf
TheOttBuster
The-Puppet-Master
TheVikingBoar
TheWiccansGlare
Thrasherscolin
ThrashFanBert94
Thrashocutionist
TicTak
TigerJaw
Tigertigre
TippyDeVil
Tolkien-Fur
TorasukeDK
TriforceDragon
Triptykon
Tsukiyomi-sakura
Tubinho
Turgius
Tusk
Twang
Twistgryphon
Tyger_the_tigerwolf
-
UlricKessler
UlvenWolf
-
Valceni_The_Sergal
Vasory88
Vaterspinne
Vatz
Venti_Sunbutt
Vespertine
Vibgyor
VickyV
Villdyret
Void-Creature
Voindragon
Vulfila
Vulpecularity
Vulpine_of_Kargonash
-
Wadmodder Schantston
Waffenmeister
WatcherOfAll
Whitefeathersrain
WickedNoxxx
Wojta
Wolf~FoxForever91
WoLf2Tails
WolfAdokah
Wolfknight777
Wolfmarines
Woozer
-
XHolyTerrorKidx
Xisqu
XP_Dragon
XVTSWx
xXx-prizim-xXx
-
Yukari420
-
ZakharKrallenfang
Zelripheth
Zhaarteth
Zootopia777
Zytonidae
-
~Illumination~
~Kloudi~
100 Members
Posted 10 years agoHail neofolk furs,
I am happy to announce that Neofolkfurs has reached 100 members. This is an important milestone for a group from humble beginnings. It clearly shows that there are a number of furs in the world who are fans of neofolk or simply interested in the music genre. Either way, it is much appreciated. I would like to thank everyone who made this possible. It is because of you that neofolk will continue to be listened to and enjoyed by others.
I am happy to announce that Neofolkfurs has reached 100 members. This is an important milestone for a group from humble beginnings. It clearly shows that there are a number of furs in the world who are fans of neofolk or simply interested in the music genre. Either way, it is much appreciated. I would like to thank everyone who made this possible. It is because of you that neofolk will continue to be listened to and enjoyed by others.
A Musical Variety
Posted 10 years agoOne of the interesting aspects of neofolk is the variety of music genres that can be found within it. From the casual onlooker, it might simply seem like a subgenre of folk music. While this is true, neofolk offers elements of many different genres of music, allowing it to provide listeners with diverse sounds. The following is a list of music genres that can be heard within neofolk along with an example for each one:
Medieval - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exsS83xzbQc
Traditional Folk - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGZjKzOPXIQ
Psychedelic Folk - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGY-HuQJFgA
Folk Rock - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1l4Tvc0JDE
Post-punk - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myzNWd-Pp2g
Martial Industrial - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB1j6YAmU7s
Dark Ambient - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avQzIuscI2Q
Medieval - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exsS83xzbQc
Traditional Folk - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGZjKzOPXIQ
Psychedelic Folk - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGY-HuQJFgA
Folk Rock - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1l4Tvc0JDE
Post-punk - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myzNWd-Pp2g
Martial Industrial - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB1j6YAmU7s
Dark Ambient - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avQzIuscI2Q
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 2
Posted 10 years agoHere is a list of even more metal bands that also play neofolk music:
Ulver - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkUv_4WTVdE
Uaral - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93Z8DDAX0mQ
Alor - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsdtW6FX6BI
Vinterriket - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9isXgTpk0bk
Lönndom - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePbYeUW8ygQ
Kauan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oX7vyGGc0es
Ulver - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkUv_4WTVdE
Uaral - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93Z8DDAX0mQ
Alor - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsdtW6FX6BI
Vinterriket - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9isXgTpk0bk
Lönndom - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePbYeUW8ygQ
Kauan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oX7vyGGc0es
Neofolk by Metal Bands: Part 1
Posted 10 years agoHere is a list of metal bands that also play neofolk music:
Hel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwxWHFzumFQ
Saturnus - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Un9-mi8mSA0
Slavogorje - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_t8iTjdLY
Waldschrat - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frHMv0T9-J0
Dormant - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOD2hgvOdMA
Cadaverous Condition - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxBnUtjNTQc
Hel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwxWHFzumFQ
Saturnus - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Un9-mi8mSA0
Slavogorje - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_t8iTjdLY
Waldschrat - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frHMv0T9-J0
Dormant - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOD2hgvOdMA
Cadaverous Condition - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxBnUtjNTQc
Neofolk Humor
Posted 10 years agoBecause even neofolk should not be taken too seriously.
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Band Spotlight: Changes
Posted 10 years agoHail neofolk furs,
In the past, when I discovered neofolk, I got to know the band, Changes. I heard the album, Fire of Life, and this was one of the many reasons why I love neofolk. Feel free to read the information, the interview, or watch some videos.
Changes are an American folk band formed in 1969 by cousins Robert N. Taylor and Nicholas Tesluk. Changes saw three distinct periods with rotating band members before their contemporary incarnation, heavily associated with the neofolk genre.
Robert Nicholas Taylor, better known as Robert N. Taylor is an American musician, artist, Germanic Neopagan, writer and political activist whose musical projects include Changes and Soul Of Steel.
Early live performances (1969-1973):
Changes formed in 1969 as a duo of Taylor and Tesluk playing small Chicago venues. The duo began playing in small coffee houses and clubs associated with the Process Church before branching out to other folk music venues in the Chicago area, such as University campuses. In 1973, Taylor moved to New Mexico, resulting in a year long break for the group.
Reformation (1974-1977):
After moving back to Chicago, Taylor and Tesluk decided to reform the group in 1974, adding Robert Taylor’s wife, Karen Taylor, to the roster as a vocalist and musician. Between 1975-1976 , Carol DePugh joined the group. The group played sporadic live shows during this period although never releasing any recorded material. In 1977, due to Tesluk’s marriage and subsequent relocation to Colorado, the group decided to split.
Contemporary Changes (1994-present):
In 1994, after receiving a Yule card of various lyrics used by Changes from Taylor, Michael Moynihan took interest in reworking and releasing demo recordings the band had previously put together. After a dormancy of almost 18 years, the group had resurfaced.
1995 saw the release of Changes' first proper release, Fire Of Life, a 2-track 7" as a joint release by Moynihan's Storm Records and the German Cthuhlu Records. This was followed in 1996 by a full length CD of the same name, containing 11 songs. Both releases contain analog open reel Changes demo material from 1969 to 1974 remastered and reworked by Moynihan and Taylor. In 1998, Changes released another proper full length - Legends, based around the concept of various historical European legends, although now long out of print.
The Austrian label HauRuck! rereleased Fire Of Life in both LP and CD form in 2001 before releasing a new full length Changes album, Orphan In The Storm. German label Eis Und Licht released Time, a split 10" with Changes and Cadaverous Condition in 2004 with an appearance by Matt Howden. 2004 also saw Changes appear live at the Flammenzauber festival in Heldrungen, Germany. This recording was later released by the German Neue Aesthetik label as the Hero Takes His Stand double LP.
Changes released another 7" through HauRuck! in 2005 titled Twilight and an untitled split CD later that year with Andrew King through the Portuguese Terra Fria label.
November 2005 found Changes performing in six cities of five European countries during their "The Men Among the Ruins Tour". Starting in Sintra, Portugal (with Andrew King (UK)), continuing to Antwerp, Belgium; Vienna, Austria; Budapest, Hungary (with The Moon and the Nightspirit); and concluding with two cities, St. Petersburg and Moscow in Russia (with Allerseelen).
In 2005, Nicholas Tesluk and Robert N. Taylor also met with the German musician Axel Frank of the Folk music outfit Werkraum followed by a close collaboration and the common, international acclaimed release "Kristalle" E.P. through Steinklang Industries Austria. Since then both are part of Werkraum's growing musical collective and further activities and releases are scheduled.
As part of the joint performance between Changes and Allerseelen in Russia in November 2005, a split CD was produced by Indiestate in Moscow, "Men Among the Ruins", containing three new songs by Changes and also three new songs by Allerseelen. It was released in autumn 2006.
The LP "A Ripple in Time" was released by White Label on October 31, 2006. The LP contains several songs that Robert and Nicholas co-wrote in the late '60s and early '70s but had never recorded outside of rough recordings for personal or demo use. In the new studio recordings Changes revised and enhanced the vocal harmonies, guitar work and embellishments to better reflect their current style. Also included on the album is the new song "Somewhere in the Night" and two new guitar instrumentals, "Eldorado" and "Paradiso", thus essentially bridging the years from Changes' inception to the group's present incarnation. The album will later become available in CD format with extra tracks.
A limited edition LP, Legends, was released by HauRuck! on July 17, 2007. Though an LP version of their work originally published as a CD by Taproot Productions in 1998, this version contains additional musical interludes that had not been previously recorded. The graphics of the gatefold cover, though similar to those of the CD, were completely revised. Robert Ferbrache of Studio Absenta also revised the dynamics of the sound. "Legends" is a six-part song with each part retelling a story of heroism in six major European regions: "Homeric" (Greece), "The Aeneid" (Italy), "Eddic" (Scandinavia), "Song of Igor" (Russia), "Arthurian" (United Kingdom) and "El Cid" (Spain/Iberia).
In 2008, again as part of the Folk music collective of Werkraum, both Nicholas and Robert were involved in the release of the very well received traditional album "Early Love Music" (once again via Steinklang Industries), which Nicholas contributed several vocal and lyric parts as well as guitars for, while Robert Taylor interprets narrative poems and the song "Casey", well-known from the old classic by Shawn Phillips song: "A Ballad of Casey Deiss", helped by Denver-based legend Bob Ferbrache in guitar and recordings. Having worked for this exceptional work, the Changes duo returns to a side of its roots, contributing to inspiring ideas from the late sixties and giving the outcome of Axel Frank from Werkraum their authentic touch.
Changes' fifth studio album "Lament" was released in February, 2010. This album was an outgrowth of Robert and Nicholas's lives following the dissolutions of each of their marriages of many years. Poignant songs include, "The Invisible Man", "Emily" (based on the life of Emily Dickinson), "The End of the Road", a remix of "Mountains of Sorrow" by the members of Der Blutharsch consisting of a dramatic musical background to a voice-over of R. N. Taylor's heart-felt poetic verse. Also included are remakes of three of Changes' earlier works: "The Saddest Thing", "Memorabilia" and "Sweet Eve" (the last featuring the vocal talents of Jane Elizabeth of TESCO US).
Changes - The Godfathers of Neofolk
What does the Bandname 'Changes' mean to you and how did you decide to use it?
We discovered early on that if a title of a song, a poem, book, etc. consists of a single word, it has a heavier and deeper impact than a title made up of multiple words. The name 'Changes' says a lot in one word. To change is to step off the beaten path and move away from the status quo, which was what we were doing when we founded the duo in the late 60s.
For instance, a song such as “Legends” (case in point as it was originally entitled 'Legends That We Know'), written in 1970 paints a striking visual image to the listener of a gallant time long gone. However on another level, the song is calling to the person to awaken his soul and find the true spirit within himself. Thus, to change from being one of the huddled masses to finding one’s own true calling and rising above the crowd in the heroic fashion of the noble warrior. This awakening can be any natural talent the person may inherently possess (acting, writing, painting, martial arts, etc.) but never realized due to the brain-numbing agents of modern society, such as television and video games that often keep a person’s true spirit suppressed.
The way we actually decided on the name is as Robert tells it: 'We were on our way to our first audition for a gig that paid. On the drive there we realized we did not have a formal name for the band. 'Changes' was one of the possibilities that came up and we kept it. It was a good one for the time and place because the type of balladry or folk music we were doing was very different from what was current at the time, both in style and subject matter.'
You started in the late 60s, early 70s. And then the middle of the Nineties. What is the motivation to reboot a musical career after such a long time. And how did this start, where did the contacts come from?
Honestly, when we parted company in 1975, we didn't think there would ever be a continuance of Changes. Robert and I each moved away from our hometown of Chicago, Illinois; he moved to Wisconsin and I to Colorado. Though our hearts were still in our music and we personally thought we had something special to offer, it seemed that the group had run its course. As has happened to many other groups with dreams and aspirations that falter, we truly thought that our musical lifespan had ended.
I should mention that in the late 60s and early 70s, there were no independent record producers. It was just what was known as the 'Big 5' recording companies (Columbia, Warner Brothers, etc.) that had a monopolistic control on the entire music scene. If someone’s music didn’t fit the niche of the general folk or rock sound prevalent at the time there was no way to get that coveted recording contract. Our music certainly wasn’t the average 'folk' sound. We had quite a following of people who enjoyed our music but that fact didn’t necessarily equate to a connection with the big business of the recording companies.
Then we jump ahead to 1994. Times had changed and there was then an alternative to the big businesses with the emergence of independent record producers. Many of these companies had sprung up in America and Europe. Storm Records in America and Cthulhu Records in Germany were two of them.
Our reincarnation came about from a poetry chapbook Robert shared with Michael Moynihan of Storm Productions. He asked Robert if any of the lyrics had been set to music and if we had made any recordings. We had some demo tapes, so Robert sent them to Michael. He liked what he heard, and before long, our old reel-to-reel tapes were digitalized, and Storm and Cthulhu Records co-produced our first release, Fire of Life.
It should be noted that of the copies of Fire of Life that were produced, half were being marketed in Europe and half in the States. The European portion sold out very quickly, while sales in the States were much slower. After about ten years Changes garnered a good following in our own country, mainly on east and west coasts of the United States and to a lesser degree in mid-America. Originally, however, it was the people of Europe that we must thank for having rediscovered us. After so many years of work on our music and the hopes that all aspiring artists entertain, it seemed as though the harvest of our labors had finally borne fruit.
When you - for example - check the 'Favorite Bands' list in the facebook community called 'Neofolk', the name Changes appears in every second list at least. Do you feel that this is the musical genre you belong to?
That is truly a great feeling to be in some way affecting and entertaining several generations of people. When we founded the group in the late 60s, there was no 'counter-folk' movement or certainly wasn’t anything of the sort that could have been even given a name. Our music was different than prevailing folk music of the time but we were quite alone in that difference. There may have been other musicians with similar thoughts throughout the world, but I would think that none were aware of each other so there was no joint effort to create a musical genre. In the 70s, when we performed 'Twilight' or 'Fire of Life', there were very few who understood the meaning of the songs. The people who didn’t grasp the concept would just blankly stare at us when we performed that part of our repertoire. The love songs and songs of heroic legends, on the other hand, had a more universal appeal.
We have been called the fathers of Apocalyptic Folk, for we were quite possibly the first. There are other performers and musical ensembles who later independently created this type of music (for no one had heard of Changes until our resurgence in the 90s). So the evolution of Neofolk came about, not because of us, but definitely out of a parallel universe similar to the one through which we were trying to direct people with our songs in the early years.
To have appeal to a few different generations of people is quite a reward in itself. So I would think that this is the genre to which we belong. Our sound may evolve in coming years to give it some variety but our basis will still be in Neofolk.
This is a quite European style of music... do you feel more related to this scene or do you feel at home in the modern American folk scene as well?
As I have mentioned, our style of music was recognized and accepted very quickly in Europe when first heard. Each time that we have visited there we’ve always felt a very close camaraderie with the European people. This has definitely made us quite at home in the European music scene. But on the other hand, as I’ve also mentioned, there has been a growing acceptance of our music here in the States. And the people that like our music here are as serious about it as our European friends are. I don’t think it is necessarily because our music now sounds more like American folk but more likely because Americans now have an increased acceptance of the European style of folk music.
Usually, folk or dark folk bands - even the great ones - tend to incorporate at least a little bit of medieval influences which to me looks and sounds more like a sort of cliche, even if it is - through the atmosphere that this creates - quite tempting. You never did this. Why?
Same question, but exactly the other way around, goes for the industrial sounds. You never used these either....
It seems to be wherever our Muse takes us. I’m not one of those people that say 'I like all kinds of music'. There are a few forms of music that I really don’t like. Music that I particularly like is Celtic and British folk, modern and ancient. I like classical symphonic and chamber music. I also like rock music and even metal music if it has a good strong melody line and not just screaming noise.
So I believe that most of my compositions have some influences of the musical styles that I like. Often I’m guided by the lyrics, either my own or Robert’s, and if the spirit is there, the music will emphasize and complement the lyrics while still having a good melody unlike anything I’ve created before. This sounds like a rather daunting task, but fortunately, when I feel the spirit of the lyrics correctly, it flows naturally without conscious thought. Thus, there isn’t an actual avoidance of a certain style like medieval music, but we don’t plan to use or reject a particular style, it’s just how it happens.
Our particular musical style doesn’t really lend itself to industrial sounds. I enjoy listening to live performances of musicians performing industrial music, and the performers doing it well can get an audience into an almost hypnotic swoon. Though our songs may have rhythmic influences, in most cases the melody, in a bardic or classical sense, is the guiding force of the sound rather than the rhythm, so a strong rhythmic beat with a line of lyrics repeated over and over is just not quite our style.
Is there a difference in creating the songs you write from the 60's to today?
In our music there are three basic classifications; the love/love lost songs, the songs of heroes/legendary figures and the apocalyptic songs. The love/love lost songs are timeless and the same feelings that generated emotions for us then are there now. The same feelings of loss that I had experienced with my marriage separation in 2003 were similar to feelings I’ve had with previously failed relationships. Conversely, for instance, the feelings of love that I wrote about in the song 'Never So True' from Orphan in the Storm, were similar to good emotions I had experienced previously.
The songs of heroism and legends are, of course, timeless throughout the ages and just as someone reading Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey could identify with the heroes as though they walked the earth today, the songs we have written about Pan, Aphrodite or any of the legendary characters and settings in Legends, are as alive in the lyrics as any present day, larger-than-life person. So, since Robert and I have always admired heroic, legendary characters as a guide to the honor, integrity and strength of what could make this world a better and stronger place, the songs could have been written at any time of our lives with the same feeling and meaning.
The apocalyptic songs tell of the decay of civilization and of a bleak and dying world. They are a bit different, since they are more relevant to a particular time. But a song like 'Twilight', based on Spengler’s 'Decline of the West', spoke of the decline of Western civilization and seemed a bit unusual when performed in the late 60s even though the prophecies were already becoming fact. Fast-forward to the 90s when it was released on Fire of Life and the lyrics were extremely relevant since society had eroded that much more in the intervening twenty-five years.
Is there always a deeper meaning to your lyrics? Or is it sometimes just plain clear as 'every sign tells me this is the end of the road' (which I hope has nothing to do with you releasing music)?
Many of our songs have a deeper meaning but with 'The End of the Road', rather than having a meaning hidden it the song, it was created as an analogy of the events of my life at the time. Following twenty good years of marriage, I was seeing strong indications that our time together was drawing to an end. These lyrics were written two years before we actually divorced, while my wife was very unhappy and disillusioned with her situation as a wife and mother. This was a dark and difficult time for me. It was then that I realized that our time together was much like being on a trip that I had truly enjoyed, only to find that the glorious holiday would soon be over. The two 'special star shines' on the path were the births of our two children which, of course, were (and still are) the absolute highlights of this journey and of my life.
The lyrics are exclusively about the events of the rise and fall of my twenty plus years of marriage and are definitely not related to our music. For, in fact, the rest of the story unfolds like a motion picture where one scene fades out while another fades in. The year that I divorced was 2003. Though Changes reemerged for its 'Third Incarnation' in 1995, it coincidentally wasn’t until the year 2003 that Robert and I were invited to the Wave-Gotik-Treffen in Leipzig to perform together again for the first time in close to thirty years. We already had recorded the songs for Orphan in the Storm which were to be released later that same year.
So from the dismal ashes of a finally failed marriage, emerged a hope and purpose to my life (similarly with Robert’s situation as he had separated about two years previous). I was rehearsing hard to get the 'magic' back in my guitar playing which had become a bit 'rusty' in the intervening years of musical inactivity. I was able to immerse myself into my rehearsals, which also included memorizing all of the songs again for a live performance since we perform about twenty to twenty five songs on average. Robert and I, though living thousands of miles apart, were composing new songs and our lives had a new meaning that allowed us to triumph over the loss and desolate sorrow that we both had endured.
Thus, as we both discovered, it is great to have an art form (including anything from music, drama, painting or any creative outlet a person might excel in) to help guide them over the difficult and tragic times in life. The songs and poems on Lament were the outlet by which Robert and I were able to keep our sanity through that dark and troubled time.
So, to further answer your question, we will be around for as long as we can still move, stand and breathe. Our life would be quite incomplete without our art and music.
Thank you very much!
Music:
Memorabilia - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymIfDVAY9Fo
Horizons that I See - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhSKUumfCYM
The Invisible Man - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqGG-U2zB24
Deja Vu - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4UdULm3aQY
Song of Pan - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkUsjYqYAuY
More About Changes:
http://www.nmia.com/~thermite
http://www.myspace.com/changesfolknoir
http://www.discogs.com/artist/Changes
http://www.last.fm/music/Changes
http://www.highfiber.com/~thermite/changes1.html
In the past, when I discovered neofolk, I got to know the band, Changes. I heard the album, Fire of Life, and this was one of the many reasons why I love neofolk. Feel free to read the information, the interview, or watch some videos.
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Changes are an American folk band formed in 1969 by cousins Robert N. Taylor and Nicholas Tesluk. Changes saw three distinct periods with rotating band members before their contemporary incarnation, heavily associated with the neofolk genre.
Robert Nicholas Taylor, better known as Robert N. Taylor is an American musician, artist, Germanic Neopagan, writer and political activist whose musical projects include Changes and Soul Of Steel.
Early live performances (1969-1973):
Changes formed in 1969 as a duo of Taylor and Tesluk playing small Chicago venues. The duo began playing in small coffee houses and clubs associated with the Process Church before branching out to other folk music venues in the Chicago area, such as University campuses. In 1973, Taylor moved to New Mexico, resulting in a year long break for the group.
Reformation (1974-1977):
After moving back to Chicago, Taylor and Tesluk decided to reform the group in 1974, adding Robert Taylor’s wife, Karen Taylor, to the roster as a vocalist and musician. Between 1975-1976 , Carol DePugh joined the group. The group played sporadic live shows during this period although never releasing any recorded material. In 1977, due to Tesluk’s marriage and subsequent relocation to Colorado, the group decided to split.
Contemporary Changes (1994-present):
In 1994, after receiving a Yule card of various lyrics used by Changes from Taylor, Michael Moynihan took interest in reworking and releasing demo recordings the band had previously put together. After a dormancy of almost 18 years, the group had resurfaced.
1995 saw the release of Changes' first proper release, Fire Of Life, a 2-track 7" as a joint release by Moynihan's Storm Records and the German Cthuhlu Records. This was followed in 1996 by a full length CD of the same name, containing 11 songs. Both releases contain analog open reel Changes demo material from 1969 to 1974 remastered and reworked by Moynihan and Taylor. In 1998, Changes released another proper full length - Legends, based around the concept of various historical European legends, although now long out of print.
The Austrian label HauRuck! rereleased Fire Of Life in both LP and CD form in 2001 before releasing a new full length Changes album, Orphan In The Storm. German label Eis Und Licht released Time, a split 10" with Changes and Cadaverous Condition in 2004 with an appearance by Matt Howden. 2004 also saw Changes appear live at the Flammenzauber festival in Heldrungen, Germany. This recording was later released by the German Neue Aesthetik label as the Hero Takes His Stand double LP.
Changes released another 7" through HauRuck! in 2005 titled Twilight and an untitled split CD later that year with Andrew King through the Portuguese Terra Fria label.
November 2005 found Changes performing in six cities of five European countries during their "The Men Among the Ruins Tour". Starting in Sintra, Portugal (with Andrew King (UK)), continuing to Antwerp, Belgium; Vienna, Austria; Budapest, Hungary (with The Moon and the Nightspirit); and concluding with two cities, St. Petersburg and Moscow in Russia (with Allerseelen).
In 2005, Nicholas Tesluk and Robert N. Taylor also met with the German musician Axel Frank of the Folk music outfit Werkraum followed by a close collaboration and the common, international acclaimed release "Kristalle" E.P. through Steinklang Industries Austria. Since then both are part of Werkraum's growing musical collective and further activities and releases are scheduled.
As part of the joint performance between Changes and Allerseelen in Russia in November 2005, a split CD was produced by Indiestate in Moscow, "Men Among the Ruins", containing three new songs by Changes and also three new songs by Allerseelen. It was released in autumn 2006.
The LP "A Ripple in Time" was released by White Label on October 31, 2006. The LP contains several songs that Robert and Nicholas co-wrote in the late '60s and early '70s but had never recorded outside of rough recordings for personal or demo use. In the new studio recordings Changes revised and enhanced the vocal harmonies, guitar work and embellishments to better reflect their current style. Also included on the album is the new song "Somewhere in the Night" and two new guitar instrumentals, "Eldorado" and "Paradiso", thus essentially bridging the years from Changes' inception to the group's present incarnation. The album will later become available in CD format with extra tracks.
A limited edition LP, Legends, was released by HauRuck! on July 17, 2007. Though an LP version of their work originally published as a CD by Taproot Productions in 1998, this version contains additional musical interludes that had not been previously recorded. The graphics of the gatefold cover, though similar to those of the CD, were completely revised. Robert Ferbrache of Studio Absenta also revised the dynamics of the sound. "Legends" is a six-part song with each part retelling a story of heroism in six major European regions: "Homeric" (Greece), "The Aeneid" (Italy), "Eddic" (Scandinavia), "Song of Igor" (Russia), "Arthurian" (United Kingdom) and "El Cid" (Spain/Iberia).
In 2008, again as part of the Folk music collective of Werkraum, both Nicholas and Robert were involved in the release of the very well received traditional album "Early Love Music" (once again via Steinklang Industries), which Nicholas contributed several vocal and lyric parts as well as guitars for, while Robert Taylor interprets narrative poems and the song "Casey", well-known from the old classic by Shawn Phillips song: "A Ballad of Casey Deiss", helped by Denver-based legend Bob Ferbrache in guitar and recordings. Having worked for this exceptional work, the Changes duo returns to a side of its roots, contributing to inspiring ideas from the late sixties and giving the outcome of Axel Frank from Werkraum their authentic touch.
Changes' fifth studio album "Lament" was released in February, 2010. This album was an outgrowth of Robert and Nicholas's lives following the dissolutions of each of their marriages of many years. Poignant songs include, "The Invisible Man", "Emily" (based on the life of Emily Dickinson), "The End of the Road", a remix of "Mountains of Sorrow" by the members of Der Blutharsch consisting of a dramatic musical background to a voice-over of R. N. Taylor's heart-felt poetic verse. Also included are remakes of three of Changes' earlier works: "The Saddest Thing", "Memorabilia" and "Sweet Eve" (the last featuring the vocal talents of Jane Elizabeth of TESCO US).
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Changes - The Godfathers of Neofolk
What does the Bandname 'Changes' mean to you and how did you decide to use it?
We discovered early on that if a title of a song, a poem, book, etc. consists of a single word, it has a heavier and deeper impact than a title made up of multiple words. The name 'Changes' says a lot in one word. To change is to step off the beaten path and move away from the status quo, which was what we were doing when we founded the duo in the late 60s.
For instance, a song such as “Legends” (case in point as it was originally entitled 'Legends That We Know'), written in 1970 paints a striking visual image to the listener of a gallant time long gone. However on another level, the song is calling to the person to awaken his soul and find the true spirit within himself. Thus, to change from being one of the huddled masses to finding one’s own true calling and rising above the crowd in the heroic fashion of the noble warrior. This awakening can be any natural talent the person may inherently possess (acting, writing, painting, martial arts, etc.) but never realized due to the brain-numbing agents of modern society, such as television and video games that often keep a person’s true spirit suppressed.
The way we actually decided on the name is as Robert tells it: 'We were on our way to our first audition for a gig that paid. On the drive there we realized we did not have a formal name for the band. 'Changes' was one of the possibilities that came up and we kept it. It was a good one for the time and place because the type of balladry or folk music we were doing was very different from what was current at the time, both in style and subject matter.'
You started in the late 60s, early 70s. And then the middle of the Nineties. What is the motivation to reboot a musical career after such a long time. And how did this start, where did the contacts come from?
Honestly, when we parted company in 1975, we didn't think there would ever be a continuance of Changes. Robert and I each moved away from our hometown of Chicago, Illinois; he moved to Wisconsin and I to Colorado. Though our hearts were still in our music and we personally thought we had something special to offer, it seemed that the group had run its course. As has happened to many other groups with dreams and aspirations that falter, we truly thought that our musical lifespan had ended.
I should mention that in the late 60s and early 70s, there were no independent record producers. It was just what was known as the 'Big 5' recording companies (Columbia, Warner Brothers, etc.) that had a monopolistic control on the entire music scene. If someone’s music didn’t fit the niche of the general folk or rock sound prevalent at the time there was no way to get that coveted recording contract. Our music certainly wasn’t the average 'folk' sound. We had quite a following of people who enjoyed our music but that fact didn’t necessarily equate to a connection with the big business of the recording companies.
Then we jump ahead to 1994. Times had changed and there was then an alternative to the big businesses with the emergence of independent record producers. Many of these companies had sprung up in America and Europe. Storm Records in America and Cthulhu Records in Germany were two of them.
Our reincarnation came about from a poetry chapbook Robert shared with Michael Moynihan of Storm Productions. He asked Robert if any of the lyrics had been set to music and if we had made any recordings. We had some demo tapes, so Robert sent them to Michael. He liked what he heard, and before long, our old reel-to-reel tapes were digitalized, and Storm and Cthulhu Records co-produced our first release, Fire of Life.
It should be noted that of the copies of Fire of Life that were produced, half were being marketed in Europe and half in the States. The European portion sold out very quickly, while sales in the States were much slower. After about ten years Changes garnered a good following in our own country, mainly on east and west coasts of the United States and to a lesser degree in mid-America. Originally, however, it was the people of Europe that we must thank for having rediscovered us. After so many years of work on our music and the hopes that all aspiring artists entertain, it seemed as though the harvest of our labors had finally borne fruit.
When you - for example - check the 'Favorite Bands' list in the facebook community called 'Neofolk', the name Changes appears in every second list at least. Do you feel that this is the musical genre you belong to?
That is truly a great feeling to be in some way affecting and entertaining several generations of people. When we founded the group in the late 60s, there was no 'counter-folk' movement or certainly wasn’t anything of the sort that could have been even given a name. Our music was different than prevailing folk music of the time but we were quite alone in that difference. There may have been other musicians with similar thoughts throughout the world, but I would think that none were aware of each other so there was no joint effort to create a musical genre. In the 70s, when we performed 'Twilight' or 'Fire of Life', there were very few who understood the meaning of the songs. The people who didn’t grasp the concept would just blankly stare at us when we performed that part of our repertoire. The love songs and songs of heroic legends, on the other hand, had a more universal appeal.
We have been called the fathers of Apocalyptic Folk, for we were quite possibly the first. There are other performers and musical ensembles who later independently created this type of music (for no one had heard of Changes until our resurgence in the 90s). So the evolution of Neofolk came about, not because of us, but definitely out of a parallel universe similar to the one through which we were trying to direct people with our songs in the early years.
To have appeal to a few different generations of people is quite a reward in itself. So I would think that this is the genre to which we belong. Our sound may evolve in coming years to give it some variety but our basis will still be in Neofolk.
This is a quite European style of music... do you feel more related to this scene or do you feel at home in the modern American folk scene as well?
As I have mentioned, our style of music was recognized and accepted very quickly in Europe when first heard. Each time that we have visited there we’ve always felt a very close camaraderie with the European people. This has definitely made us quite at home in the European music scene. But on the other hand, as I’ve also mentioned, there has been a growing acceptance of our music here in the States. And the people that like our music here are as serious about it as our European friends are. I don’t think it is necessarily because our music now sounds more like American folk but more likely because Americans now have an increased acceptance of the European style of folk music.
Usually, folk or dark folk bands - even the great ones - tend to incorporate at least a little bit of medieval influences which to me looks and sounds more like a sort of cliche, even if it is - through the atmosphere that this creates - quite tempting. You never did this. Why?
Same question, but exactly the other way around, goes for the industrial sounds. You never used these either....
It seems to be wherever our Muse takes us. I’m not one of those people that say 'I like all kinds of music'. There are a few forms of music that I really don’t like. Music that I particularly like is Celtic and British folk, modern and ancient. I like classical symphonic and chamber music. I also like rock music and even metal music if it has a good strong melody line and not just screaming noise.
So I believe that most of my compositions have some influences of the musical styles that I like. Often I’m guided by the lyrics, either my own or Robert’s, and if the spirit is there, the music will emphasize and complement the lyrics while still having a good melody unlike anything I’ve created before. This sounds like a rather daunting task, but fortunately, when I feel the spirit of the lyrics correctly, it flows naturally without conscious thought. Thus, there isn’t an actual avoidance of a certain style like medieval music, but we don’t plan to use or reject a particular style, it’s just how it happens.
Our particular musical style doesn’t really lend itself to industrial sounds. I enjoy listening to live performances of musicians performing industrial music, and the performers doing it well can get an audience into an almost hypnotic swoon. Though our songs may have rhythmic influences, in most cases the melody, in a bardic or classical sense, is the guiding force of the sound rather than the rhythm, so a strong rhythmic beat with a line of lyrics repeated over and over is just not quite our style.
Is there a difference in creating the songs you write from the 60's to today?
In our music there are three basic classifications; the love/love lost songs, the songs of heroes/legendary figures and the apocalyptic songs. The love/love lost songs are timeless and the same feelings that generated emotions for us then are there now. The same feelings of loss that I had experienced with my marriage separation in 2003 were similar to feelings I’ve had with previously failed relationships. Conversely, for instance, the feelings of love that I wrote about in the song 'Never So True' from Orphan in the Storm, were similar to good emotions I had experienced previously.
The songs of heroism and legends are, of course, timeless throughout the ages and just as someone reading Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey could identify with the heroes as though they walked the earth today, the songs we have written about Pan, Aphrodite or any of the legendary characters and settings in Legends, are as alive in the lyrics as any present day, larger-than-life person. So, since Robert and I have always admired heroic, legendary characters as a guide to the honor, integrity and strength of what could make this world a better and stronger place, the songs could have been written at any time of our lives with the same feeling and meaning.
The apocalyptic songs tell of the decay of civilization and of a bleak and dying world. They are a bit different, since they are more relevant to a particular time. But a song like 'Twilight', based on Spengler’s 'Decline of the West', spoke of the decline of Western civilization and seemed a bit unusual when performed in the late 60s even though the prophecies were already becoming fact. Fast-forward to the 90s when it was released on Fire of Life and the lyrics were extremely relevant since society had eroded that much more in the intervening twenty-five years.
Is there always a deeper meaning to your lyrics? Or is it sometimes just plain clear as 'every sign tells me this is the end of the road' (which I hope has nothing to do with you releasing music)?
Many of our songs have a deeper meaning but with 'The End of the Road', rather than having a meaning hidden it the song, it was created as an analogy of the events of my life at the time. Following twenty good years of marriage, I was seeing strong indications that our time together was drawing to an end. These lyrics were written two years before we actually divorced, while my wife was very unhappy and disillusioned with her situation as a wife and mother. This was a dark and difficult time for me. It was then that I realized that our time together was much like being on a trip that I had truly enjoyed, only to find that the glorious holiday would soon be over. The two 'special star shines' on the path were the births of our two children which, of course, were (and still are) the absolute highlights of this journey and of my life.
The lyrics are exclusively about the events of the rise and fall of my twenty plus years of marriage and are definitely not related to our music. For, in fact, the rest of the story unfolds like a motion picture where one scene fades out while another fades in. The year that I divorced was 2003. Though Changes reemerged for its 'Third Incarnation' in 1995, it coincidentally wasn’t until the year 2003 that Robert and I were invited to the Wave-Gotik-Treffen in Leipzig to perform together again for the first time in close to thirty years. We already had recorded the songs for Orphan in the Storm which were to be released later that same year.
So from the dismal ashes of a finally failed marriage, emerged a hope and purpose to my life (similarly with Robert’s situation as he had separated about two years previous). I was rehearsing hard to get the 'magic' back in my guitar playing which had become a bit 'rusty' in the intervening years of musical inactivity. I was able to immerse myself into my rehearsals, which also included memorizing all of the songs again for a live performance since we perform about twenty to twenty five songs on average. Robert and I, though living thousands of miles apart, were composing new songs and our lives had a new meaning that allowed us to triumph over the loss and desolate sorrow that we both had endured.
Thus, as we both discovered, it is great to have an art form (including anything from music, drama, painting or any creative outlet a person might excel in) to help guide them over the difficult and tragic times in life. The songs and poems on Lament were the outlet by which Robert and I were able to keep our sanity through that dark and troubled time.
So, to further answer your question, we will be around for as long as we can still move, stand and breathe. Our life would be quite incomplete without our art and music.
Thank you very much!
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Music:
Memorabilia - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymIfDVAY9Fo
Horizons that I See - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhSKUumfCYM
The Invisible Man - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqGG-U2zB24
Deja Vu - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4UdULm3aQY
Song of Pan - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkUsjYqYAuY
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More About Changes:
http://www.nmia.com/~thermite
http://www.myspace.com/changesfolknoir
http://www.discogs.com/artist/Changes
http://www.last.fm/music/Changes
http://www.highfiber.com/~thermite/changes1.html
Discovering Neofolkfurs
Posted 11 years agoHail neofolk furs,
Out of curiosity, how did you discover this group?
Out of curiosity, how did you discover this group?