Interview with Mythraeum

Congratulations on your recent EP release with M-Theory Audio. Can you tell us about the process of creating “Halls of Mythras” and how it differs from your previous work?
The songs “Terrestrial Despair” and “Roots That Refuse to Cling ” were a collection of ideas about 2 and a half years ago. It wasn’t until Covid-19 hit that we had time to perfect the two tracks and began recording. Upon this process, Wraith and Algiz were inspired to make Halls of Mythras I and Halls of Mythras II which are very cinematic-esque scores that prelude the other tracks. With the help of our sound engineer friends, Ethan Stouder and Jeff Meredith, we were able to make this EP into what you hear today.

Since Mythraeum had a full lineup change around 2019 the music has naturally changed over time, but still contains the same essence.

You were the winners of the Wacken Metal Battle USA. How has this experience shaped your music and performances, and how did it feel to represent the US at Wacken Open Air in Germany?
To be able to share our music at Wacken was a very surreal experience as none of us had ever played a festival that big let alone been to one. It definitely opened our eyes to the fact that even though we had this great opportunity and were well prepared, we still have a lot of work to do and that music is simply bigger than all of us. Needless to say, we were still very proud to represent the USA despite whatever stigmas Europeans might have over Americans, but while there we made a bunch of new metal family friends from around the globe.

You’ve been praised for your work ethic and conduct during the Wacken Metal Battle USA. Can you share some insights into how you approach rehearsals, live shows, and the overall band dynamic?
Specifically for Wacken we rehearsed more than usual knowing that we might not get to play all together again till we hit the stage. We had been so accustomed to rehearsing a day or two before a show, but now you throw traveling into the mix so, we definitely wanted to be prepared. Aside from the music aspect, we went to Germany/Wacken knowing in the back of our minds that this was a good chance to “make connections” among people in the business.

Now that we have our manager, Eric Dow, we necessarily don’t have to focus on the business side of things and just create music. That being said, rehearsals all depend on what the main focus is whether it be in preparation for a show or writing new music for an album. It definitely helps that we have all been friends for many years now so, when it comes to going in a certain direction we can all navigate smoothly even with minor bumps in the road.

Your music blends influences from second-wave Black Metal and other tangents of Scandinavian influence, including folk underlining, orchestration, and classical elements. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind this unique sound?
We are obvious fans of the black metal scene with no certain era of focus, so this leaves this influx of sounds that are all very possible to create. While Mythraeum does have a formula we try to stick by, we derive a lot of ideas through video games which also by proxy, classical elements

What can listeners expect from “Halls of Mythras,” both musically and thematically?
“Halls Of Mythras” is a transcendental journey that dives headfirst into the chaos of life. Themes of mysticism and gods appear as it may guide or torment the listener along the path. Musically this EP has a very sonically diverse sound to it as it flows between straight brutality, melancholic melodies, and orchestrated passages.

Your shows in San Diego have a strong lineup of supporting acts. How do you approach selecting bands to share the stage with, and what do you look for in potential collaborators?
As of recently with the rise of Mythraeum’s popularity, we tend to space out shows more and try to play with acts we know, can draw a crowd, and just simply enjoy. We never personally handpick the bands unless our manager is setting up a show, but are given opportunities of certain lineups and dates we can either agree or disagree to. There is some amazing talent out there, but we never have had the opportunity or thought about collaborating as most of us are in other bands already as well.

The pandemic has affected the music industry in many ways. How has it impacted your creative process and the release of “Halls of Mythras”?
Covid-19 gave us a lot of time to regain focus and find a new direction in what way we perceived our self as a band. Things evolve and the natural shift of the earth and us were parallel so, we wanted to embody that. The logistics of recording “Halls of Mythras” still roughly stayed the same as previous DIY work we have done in the past.

You’ve been together for a few years now, how has the band evolved since its formation? And where do you see yourselves going in the future?
Mythraeum was actually created around 2014 with different band members. Except Wraith being the last original member, the current lineup began around 2019. With all of our combined passion and drive, the future for Mythraeum looks very bright and we see ourselves becoming a metal household name.

Press release mentions the ambition to create an impressionable new album. Can you give us a sneak peek into what’s next for Mythraeum, and what you hope to accomplish in your future work?
As of right now we are currently fine tuning the songs on our new album and heading into the studio very soon to start tracking! This next album definitely has an unrelenting heaviness to it that is mirrored with technical passages and cosmic nuances. After this album is released, we aspire to go on tour to promote it. As for the far future of Mythraeum’s music all we can say is that we plan on delivering the best material possible that is from our hearts.

Mythraeum has a strong online presence with active social media accounts and a Bandcamp page. How do you see digital platforms shaping the music industry, and how do you navigate the balance between online and in-person engagement with your audience?
Digital Platforms have already changed the industry in a multitude of ways. For instance, while streaming services have made it easier for fans to appreciate the music, it has left artists with no modicum of financial relief after pouring money into their art. This leaves bands forced to rely on touring and merchandise, in which case most venues are taking a percentage of now. This is just one example and at the rate which technology is advancing, it’s really hard to know how the industry will be effected in the near future. We are just as terrified as excited for it and are eager to learn how to adapt and overcome it. There are obviously algorithms to this all, but we just try to be as true to ourselves when it comes to social media.