Katatonia Aren't Fussed With Perfection

There must be something in the Swedish air that incites its citizens to form metal bands — Opeth, Amon Amarth, Bathory, Entombed, Soilwork and more all hail from the land of Vikings and the smorgasbord. Katatonia is one such band, dating back to 1991 when Jonas Renkse and Anders Nystrom struck up a duo. They then began "exploring black, death/doom metal, [and] have released ten albums up until now with a significant change in the sound over the years, but still rooted in the dark side of the musical spectrum," explains vocalist and co-founder Renkse of their evolution. The tenth album in question, The Fall Of Hearts was "recorded in Studio Grondahl and Tri-Lamb Studios, then mixed in Fascination Street Studios." Renkse doesn't explain too much about the thematic concerns of the record, putting it simply: "The theme is always there, same as ever. Reflecting upon bleakness of everyday life. But it is not a concept album.

"These days the idea of having a new album out is inspiring enough. Then of course any music that we listened to at the time of contemplating and writing this record." When recording, the band aren't fussed about being meticulous: "Some parts need perfection, but most of it sounds better if it has just got the right vibe. We go mostly for the emotional aspect in the takes rather that perfection." The same goes for performing - tried and tested formulas work for Katatonia over improvisation. "We will try to play [our songs] as they are on the album. Maybe in a few years there will be room to give them another set of clothes," jokes Renkse.