Mikko Häkkinen

AM : First can you briefly tell the evolution of the band since its foundation in 1996 ?

Mikko : Yes, the band was formed exactly ten years ago, signed to cacophonous and released the first album in 1997. It was the child of its time, melodic dark metal with additional female vocals, not very revolutionary but it sold well and got good reviews. Followup was recorded year later and was a step to more raw material. After this became years of struggle as the record label kicked out all of their bands. Band-members came and left, and not too much happened before the turning of the century. New recruits stepped in and a promo was recorded so we got a deal from Finnish Low Frequency Records. Finally early 2004 saw the release of third album, "The End of Halcyon Age". We were contended with it, but it was not without flaws. Now the sound and music has evolved to more twisted paths and we can proudly announce the newest album as the strongest one in our gallery.

AM : Can you explain us what is "The order of the sanguine diadem" ?

Mikko : Sure. Three of us (Toni, Timo and me) have always been the core members of this union. We make the music, the lyrics and hold the vision that is Twilight Ophera. This order that is mentioned is simply a circle of very talented people that perform this art in the record. Sanguine Diadem is related to corruption and violence that oozes from power. It is the symbol of the first kings and their fall; it was the thorn diadem of Christ etc.

AM : With so many people in the band (8 !) from various horizons (black, death, doom e.g. Diablerie, Soulgrind, Rapture, Silentium…), how do you manage to combine all ideas and influences ?

Mikko : All music is mainly composed by Toni Näykki. Of course others have ideas and contribute in their own way, but you can definitely say this record is a child of his. I don't know what dark corners of his mind spawn diversity as this but I really respect his talent. He is truly the master of many paths.

AM : I think your music is impossible to categorize, all I can say is that it's extreme metal with avantgarde and chaotic touch, how would you describe your music to metal fans who doesn't know you, to give them the envy to listen to you ?

Mikko : True, it is hard to categorize yet you managed to describe it quite well. It has influences from early Norwegian black metal from Emperor to Arcturus but at some point it started to live its own insane life. We chose not to restrict its growth and it bred into weird directions. It is definitely not easy music but demands some patience from listener. As can be read from reviews some people love it and others seem to hate it. This one is not "nice" album.

AM : What is the theme of the lyrics, is it somewhat related to Lovecraft (Cthulhu Mythos), as the octopus on the booklet might indicate ?

Mikko : Actually no. Lyrics are more down to earth style. Down to depths if one would say, depths of mortality, stripping all illusions of grandeur, religions, morality, fate and god. I tried to achieve something that is heard in music, violence, chaos and reality without deeper meaning. Descent to the core of man.

AM : Are you planning gigs and tours ? Do you play with a full line-up of 8 people ?

Mikko : We have plans but nothing is confirmed yet. We'd like to tour with full crew but of course it requires some investments and our record label is not that resourceful. Let's see what happens but our hearts definitely yearn for touring since there have been many years since we played live.

AM : Our last, ritual question : ask yourself a question and give the answer ?

Mikko : Why is there no bandpictures in the covers? Old ugly fucks like us would have ruined the magic.

AM : Thanks for your time , I wish you all the best for the release of "Descension", stay heavy !!!

Mikko : Thanks for this interview. Good luck with your site.