INTERVIEW – DARK SKY

Congratulations on your impressive achievement at the German Rock & Pop Prize 2023. What does this recognition mean to Dark Sky at this stage of your career?

Well, after we had already received very good feedback and reviews for the release of "Signs Of The Time", it was of course the crowning glory to also win the awards at the German Rock & Pop Prize. But at the end of the day, that's just one success on the path the band wants to take. We don't want to rest on our laurels.

· Your latest album, Signs of the Time, has been well-received internationally. Could you elaborate on the central themes of the record and how they reflect the band’s current vision?

The majority of the songs were written during the pandemic and this oppressive time therefore shaped the content and sound of the songs. After all, it was a very difficult time, not just for us musicians. Let's see what the next album looks like. Unfortunately, there are enough topics with problematic developments in the world.

· The collaboration with producer Markus Teske and composer Hannes Braun clearly shaped the sound of Signs of the Time. How would you describe their influence on the creative process?

I pre-produced and composed the songs with producer Markus Teske from Bazement Studio, so of course there is a lot of input from Markus in the songs. Hannes contributed harmonies and melodies to the song "Forgiveness", so the song clearly bears his signature.

· Tracks such as ‘Heroes on Ice’ and ‘Forgiveness’ have been accompanied by striking visual productions. What role do music videos play in conveying your artistic message today?

Music videos have been very important not only since YouTube, as they make a major contribution to the transportation of the content and also give the consumer added visual value.

· Looking ahead to 2024, you are scheduled to perform at major European festivals, including Sanremo. What can audiences expect from Dark Sky’s live shows this season?

Unfortunately we had to cancel Sanremo due to health reasons but we had some really great festivals after the release of Signs of the Time. We already have some very cool events lined up for 2026 and we hope to have some really big things coming up. Maybe we can finally make it to Greece.

· Live performance has always been a defining aspect of your identity. Which recent concert stands out as a milestone for the band, and why?

For me, the Masters Of Rock Festival in the Czech Republic with Judas Priest was the biggest highlight of the last festivals. It was a great festival and Judas Priest, the idols of my youth, were on the same stage as DARK SKY.

· Dark Sky’s lineup has evolved over time, with the addition of international musicians. How has this broadened your musical direction and stage dynamic?

The changes in the band's line-up took time and nerves, but in the end they brought new and good impulses. Not only the playing quality of the musicians, but also their presence on stage is an important part of a band.

· Following both the awards and the release of Signs of the Time, what creative paths are you most eager to explore — another studio project, experimental sounds, or expanded touring?

We are already working intensively on new songs for the next studio album, but we are also making sure that we can play as many good live shows as possible. Experimental sounds are yet not planned ;-)

· During the German Rock & Pop Awards, was there a particular backstage or on-stage moment that encapsulated the spirit of Dark Sky for you?

I don't know, actually the moment when we were called up and honored was such a beautiful moment. Of course it was bonding but I don't think it was the spirit of the band

· Success often comes with new expectations. How do you intend to translate your recent achievements into future engagement with your audience?

Yes, we feel a certain amount of pressure, but you also need an incentive to become even better. We are excited to see how the new songs will be received by the audience and look forward to what is to come. Thanks a lot for the questions and hopefully we see you sometime somewhere in front of the stage!