Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.
Cartagine was born in the middle of 2013, it is a one man band. I played drums and was a part of the underground hardcore/post-hardcore/punk scene for ten years or more. After the dissolution of the band, my music interests changed direction, to darker and sick sounds and I felt the need to create Cartagine.
How would you describe your style? Which bands influenced your music?
This is a drone band with doom/metal influences. Black metal, space/ambient and experimental music are my favorite genres. Bands like Sunn O))), Boris, Ulver, Burzum have huge influences and inspiration on me.
Why should a metalhead buy your demos/albums?
Why not? There is nothing darker than Cartagine.
What have you released so far and how were your releases received by the public/media?
Just one. The first album of Cartagine "I", released on a limited edition cassette by Aonair Productions, from UK. Also Splitting Sounds Records is helping us on the digital distribution/sharing. "I" is receiving great reviews from webzines and fanzines, i didn't think it would have enjoyed this success because it is the easiest music to listen to and I recorded it during lo-fi home sessions with cheap stuff. I'm really pleased with the results that I am getting.
Do you play live as well? How's your live activity so far?
Sure! Shows are the most important part of a band. My first live appearance will be in March 15th in my hometown. It will be at the inaugural Hariel Fest, which is new and exciting Stoner/Doom/Sludge Festival. I'm considering the possibility of playing some gigs around Europe, especially Festivals. I need to play live... With my old band I played all over Europe, Australia and South-East Asia, but it was many years ago. Now I am looking forward to relive those past experiences with this new project.
What should labels/zines/promoters know about your band? Why should they be interested in it?
I quote you a piece from a review of "I", it should give you an idea"...you can feel the inspiration of bands like Sunn O))) and the old Neptune Tower, but mostly distorted. However, Cartagine has the ability to become darker than the aforementioned bands..."
What plans do you have for the near future as a band?
Release more albums if possible, play more live shows and reach more fans! I want the music to evolve with each release and be able to convey something new and unique every time. I would also like to share my music more, everywhere. I hope to work with Gerry from Aonair Productions for a long time, and continue to reach new fans.
Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?
My music is available on the Cartagine FaceBook and Bandcamp pages. Also, you can download it via the Splitting Sounds Records website and on the Aonair Productions website where you can also buy physical copies of my album "I". And finally, at my shows!
February 2014