Interview: Flukt
Photo by Kristina Fagerdal
Hailing from Vennesla, Norway, Flukt is a pure black metal band holding nothing back in their ferocious approach to the genre. Some might call it “raw black metal”, but Flukt self-describes it as “old school” on their Bandcamp page. We’ll run with that description since that’s how they see themselves.
Anyone with any knowledge of black metal knows that Norway is basically the epicenter of the genre, which automatically gives them street cred (even for bands that do not merit such a reputation). The real question: can they back it up with their music? We would have to say so emphatically. This is not black metal for the faint of heart, which is just the way they like it.
Blacforje had the honor of interviewing Flukt about their music, the band’s ethos, and what inspires them in their creative journey.
Thanks for taking time to chat with Blacforje! You guys are based in Vest-Agder, Norway, right?
A.Ø – Thank you for showing interest in Flukt. We are based in Vennesla, which is part of Agder county.
Obviously, black metal has deep roots in Norway. Do you feel like the standards and expectations of Norwegian black metal fans are higher than elsewhere? I would assume so given how many legendary acts have been born out of the country.
A.Ø – Well, it is hard for me to say that the standard is higher for bands from Norway. Back in those days it certainly was. I believe it might be a little bit easier to get attention abroad for Norwegian bands because of the history and position Norwegian Black Metal has.
Other than black metal, what is the one other thing you would say defines Norway culturally and artistically?
A.Ø – Norwegians are definitely much more introverted and reserved than people in other countries. At least that is my experience traveling around the world. And we have the wild forest and mountains that has huge impact on our cultural heritage.
Your last album, Darkness Devour, was released in 2019. Do you have any plans on releasing new music in the near future? If so, what can you tell us about it?
A.Ø – We have recorded a new album scheduled for release in 2023. When it will be released depends on our label Dusktone from Italy. The upcoming album is a natural progression from the Darkness devour album. More of everything in a positive way. More tempo, more groove, more aggression, more atmosphere, and more well-thought compositions.
What is the overall “theme” of Flukt, if there is such a thing? A lot of bands and artists focus on nature, faith, or something along those lines. What would you say is an overly simplistic labeling of Flukt’s thematic elements?
A.Ø – We have no main theme. We write about what comes to mind, but old mythical religions and mysticism is inspiring to me, along with stories from WW2 and other historical events. We also write about our own thoughts and experiences in life.
Photo by Paul Tsigakis
You guys are very much influenced by faith, is that right? How does that look for you as both a band and individually? Does it play into your music?
Flukt is not religious or a political band.
You’ve played live shows before, but do you plan on making it over to North America anytime to play live?
A.Ø – Yeah, we have played a lot of club and small festival gigs. North America would be a dream come true. But I don’t think it would happen anytime soon. Make some promoter book us!
It’s a hard question, but I have to ask everyone I talk with just because I love putting you on the spot. If you had to narrow down a brief list of bands and artists that have influenced Flukt, who would be on that list?
A.Ø – Well, that is almost impossible to answer. We are four individuals of Flukt who all have their own taste in music. For me, it is those good old extreme metal bands from the 80s and 90s. American thrash and death metal and Scandinavian black metal.
OK, last and most important question. If Flukt had to change styles for their next album, and if it had to be one of the following genres, which would you choose: jazz, country, pop, bluegrass, or hip-hop?
A.Ø – I know we would put the band to rest before this would be a matter of choice!
You can follow Flukt on Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, and their website.
