During a little lively chat on Facebook with the lead singer Oliver, we leaped at the chance to set up an interview focused on Perfect Sky’s upcoming masterpiece. Dive with us into the exploration and discovery on a little crusade through the band’s history, music, and the cultural tapestry that has shaped their sound and ethos!
1. Reflecting on Perfect Sky’s origins, what were the key motivations and aspirations that led to the formation of the band from the remnants of ‘Proud of Ignorance’, and how have those initial goals shaped the band’s journey up to this point?
The reason why Proud of Ignorance later became Perfect Sky is quite simple. When we formed Proud of Ignorance in 1997, it was the first band for most of us. I played bass back then, or rather I had to learn to play bass first when we wrote our first songs with POI, which was pretty exciting and funny. We all had our heroes or favourite Bands back then and wanted to emulate them.
The first songs we created, were quite good given the circumstances at the time. But as we got better and better at our instruments, we wanted to do the next steps musically and the style changed a little, it became more metallic and way harder. But we couldn't come to an agreement at the time and not everyone had the same opinion. So the line up unfortunately had to be changed. Looking back, perhaps it wasn't the worst decision we made back then because a short time later the Spider Crew was formed with our former singer. And they have now left a lasting impression on the scene. The rest is history. Even today we still bring influences from other genres into our songs.
2. You became active in 1999, since that time, how has the Austrian scene evolved, is it as active as it was 25 years ago?
Basically, the Austrian scene has not really changed since 1997. There are still a large number of really good HC and Punk Bands. You still meet some of the same people at shows as in the 90s, but there are also a lot of young and new faces which have joined the scene since then and have now become good friends or family. So it`s still a small family scene. But just like back then, the scene is still divided into two different parts. On one side there are the people we grew up with, who are showing up at shows of Bands like Agnostic Front, Sick Of It All, Slapshot, Cro-Mags, Rykers, etc.
And on the other side there`s a scene of kids or younger people who are more into a metallic wave of bands like Pain of Truth, Sunami, Escalate, Magnitude and more, these kids are less into the classic old school HC, they prefer harder stuff, and Beatdown is also becoming more and more popular.
3. Over the years, Perfect Sky has evolved from the classic Vienna Style Hardcore to a more old school hardcore with metal influences. How has this transition influenced your songwriting process and the themes you explore in your music?
If you take a look at all the Vienna Style Hardcore bands that existed or are still active, you’ll see that this movement is not really a style of hardcore but rather an attitude or an affiliation. As we grew up and got older there suddenly were other things or problems we were confronted with. So the topics our Lyrics dealed with changed and the way we wanted to express ourselves through our music and songs as well. That wasn't planned, it just were the hands of time.
4. For the upcoming disc you've re-recorded ‘Angry Youth’ and covered Iron Cross’s ’Crucified’, how do you balance the respect for hardcore’s roots with the drive to innovate and push the genre forward in your music?
We know where we come from and where our roots are and which Bands brought us to Hardcore. We still love and respect these Bands and are grateful that they laid the foundations of our scene, but times change and so do we. We are now open to new impulses from other music genres as well.
5. Your upcoming EP ‘Hunting Demons’ seems to promise an intense experience for hardcore fans. Can you share the inspiration behind the title and what fans can expect from the new tracks compared to your previous work?
"Hunting Demons" is a very special album for us. In my opinion we have improved in all areas on this recording compared to our previous recordings. Our songwriting has gotten better, the songs are all pretty catchy, the lyrics have gotten better and it seems like we've found the most suitable sound for ourselves. The title Hunting Demons was chosen because for me personally it contains the most emotional lyrics. Lyrics that many people can identify with. A topic that shouldn't be ignored, it should encourage people to help others who can no longer save themselves
6. The lyrics of one of the preview piece "We’re Not The Same" vividly depict a stark contrast between materialistic lifestyles and genuine values. Could you elaborate on the personal experiences or observations that inspired these strong statements against the pursuit of money and fame?
This song reflects the status quo of our society. A society that has become increasingly fast-paced and in which gratitude and humility are rarely found. Material things like status symbols, money and power have top priority.
The dark sides of these circumstances are often ignored, hidden or simply not recognized. A cold society has emerged...false friends, fake love and affection, selfishness, always looking for one's own advantage. That`s why we wrote this song. To hold up a mirror to society and make it clear that other values such as love, sincerity, honesty, loyalty, friendship, empathy or cohesion should have more weight in our everyday lives.
7. The lyrics of 'Racial Abuse' are a powerful call to action for equality and justice. Can you share the story or events that inspired you to write this anthem, and what impact do you hope it will have on listeners and society at large?
No matter where you look these days, hate, intolerance, discrimination, racism and fear of change reign supreme. History has shown that warning signs should be recognized and each and everyone of us should take responsibility. It doesn't matter what you've been taught or what experiences you've had. We have to stick together to make a change, it is not too late. If we can reach even a handful people with our songs and lyrics we have written, and make them rethink their views and open their eyes, that would already be a success and a part of the solution . It’s time top the madness.
8. The upcoming effort features seven tracks; is there a particular title you are most proud of having written?
We are really proud of all 7 tracks and very happy with how they turned out. Lyrically, Hunting Demons and Racial Abuse are my favorites because there is an important message behind them. And musically “We're not the same” is my favorite Song, because the song is a bit faster, really catchy and fun to play live.
9. What motivated you to release the new EP ‘Hunting Demons’ with Wtf Records on the upcoming 31st of May?
The reason why we are releasing the EP again on WTF Records is because Tim van Kleven had trust in us from the beginning and always supported us. He´s also a really nice guy who still lives hardcore the way it should be.
10. Do you plan to perform at any festivals this summer to showcase your new tracks?
Yes, there will be a few opportunities to mosh to the new tracks live this year. On July 5th, 2024 we will have the official EP Release Show in Vienna with Worst, Cutthroat LA and Sworn Enemy. On August 31st, 2024 we will play an Open Air Festival in Slovenia, the 15th edition of the "Breka Fest"...on September 7th, 2024 we will play at a Charity Event in Tulln and on October 12th, 2024 we will play another Show in Slovakia with our friends from True Reason. Next year we plan to come back to Germany and Holland again. Just follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay up to date.
Last Words: Mad Props to Loyalcore for this Interview and supporting us that way. Thanks a lot, we really appreciate that! TRAILERPARK HARDCORE 2024, HARDCORE STILL LIVES!!!
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Reflecting on the insightful interview with Oliver of Perfect Sky, it’s evident, from their early days as ‘Proud of Ignorance’ to the present, they’ve navigated the changing tides of their music with a blend of reverence for hardcore’s roots and a boldness to innovate. As they prepare to release ‘Hunting Demons’ with WTF Records and embark on a series of live performances, Perfect Sky is not just sharing music; they’re fostering a community since 24 years. Don't forget to hear the new EP released may 31th.
