INTERVIEW with PETRA MUSIC BOX (2020)
janvier 15, 2025
1) Introduction...
I'm Haskel Kernval from Autarkeon, a solo project from France that plays Old School Death Metal. This project has existed since 2011. With 3 albums, 2 singles and videos to his credit.
2) How can we buy your merch/ music ?
Autarkeon's discography is available for listening and for sale on Bandcamp.
3) Are you currently in the studio ?
Yes. Like most of the year. I compose, I record and I broadcast one by one, the songs that make up each album. It is an almost continuous flow. I don't wait to have the number of songs necessary to make an album. I've always done it this way.
I work alone (except for the mixing). So it takes a long time to make an album. I like to regularly offer something new. And then, that way, people know what they are buying when they buy an Autarkeon album
4) Do you have a show(s) lined up? If so, please give details.
No scheduled show.
5) What are your current ambitions ?
Spread the name, the music of Autarkeon as much as possible, in as many places as possible in the world. Sell as much stuff as possible. Without practicing unrestrained, exaggerated merchandising. Music above all. This is what Autarkeon offers.
6) How are you handling the current ‘global situation’ ?
It's always difficult to do everything. Including, promote. It is a huge investment in time, energy. I am used to it. I couldn't do otherwise (I was been in bands). But passion is a powerful engine.
7) What is one question you wish was asked during an interview ? Answer the question.
Should a musician, an artist always give his opinion? No. But if he can bring something constructive, give a different point of view (not be only an activist, a manipulator), he must do it, because he has the possibility of expressing himself and of being heard.
8) What is one thing you have discovered during your career that you believe is important to share with aspiring musical artists ?
It takes a lot of humility and perseverance. But this is not a real discovery. I already had these character traits before I made music. And I act according to his principles, for everything I do. If I have discovered something; is that nothing can be taken for granted. You always have to question yourself. Take advice into account but above all, be in tune with yourself. People's opinion counts, of course. But the first person with whom we have to be in agreement, if we want to be honest, it is yourself.
9) Share with us the best tour or best show you have had; where... ya know the details. ????
In my music room ????
10) Just for fun... there are many songs out today with JANE in the title; if you were to write a song with JANE in the title what would it be and why ?
I would write a song about Jane and her clones.
11) If you have on hand merch, vinyl, cd you are most proud of, show us and elaborate.
Among the things I'm most proud of, there are the songs "Chaos", "Condamnés" and "Éléments". Some videos also: "Labyrinthe", "Condamnés" ...
These songs, in my opinion, have a strong identity. They perfectly represent the Autarkeon universe. In terms of composition, atmosphere, sound. There is the power, the dark melodic touches. The will and the pessimism that characterizes me.
12) Name one person you would love to have a discussion with about music ( it can be anyone).... What would be discussed during this conversation ?
This conversation can be with someone who has the same values, the same perception of the world as me. Someone I know. Or someone I don't know. During a meeting. A one-off moment. Randomly.
The conversation should not be about technical considerations, about instruments. It bothers me. I like to talk about how people feel, listening to music, their inspiration, their moods. Everything that makes music alive, deep, inspired.
13) Is there one prized possession you always take with you on stage or on the road ?
If I played on stage, I would have nothing really precious with me, no fetish. I am not too materialistic. Nor superstitious.
14) How long have you been in the music business ?
What is the exact definition of music business? I have been making music for a long time. I have been selling for 4 years, only.
15) What is one thing you hope to leave behind ( it can be anything ... words of wisdom for example) ?
Autarkeon's albums. Hoping that a few people will listen a little longer, when I'm gone. An attitude, an alternative way of living. And memories.
16) Is there a television show you like to binge ?
I no longer have a favorite show in recent years. I like to watch reports, series, films. For current affairs, I prefer documentaries, things that relate with established facts, not guesses, bias. Documentaries made long after events.
17) Have you started a new hobby during the current ‘global situation’ ?
No new hobby. Besides music, I practice sports. I am interested in History. I have been reading less than before since I spent as much time as possible with Autarkeon.
18) If you are currently working on a new song, give us a teaser.
I'm currently working on a new single called: "Sous la Surface". I have nothing to broadcast yet. There may be a teaser later.
19) What do you tour in? Would you prefer something different in a perfect world for your comfort ?
If I toured, I wouldn't have any requirements for comfort. The only thing I would insist on is that the things said be done. That's, what has to work, works.
20) Name 5 of your favorite things in this world. Elaborate. This helps your fans learn more about you.
I don't know if that answers the question well but here is what I can say:
Moving forward. Even with a single step, every day is a success. So, I like to progress (in my activities, my skills and intellectually)
Complicity (having as many things as possible, to share with someone).
Travel. Listen, play music. Take the time to think. Humor.
21) If Bands / solo arts had a mission statement, what would yours be ?
Show that it is possible to think, to live differently. Exit formatting.
Please play a set for us if you are able.... if not you may choose a fun ending to this virtual interview.
Finally. You can play dice by reading this interview. If you roll a 4, you're back to square one. Same thing if you roll a 9 ????
Thanks to Petra Music Box for giving me this interview.
Thank you for participating. This is a great way to promote yourself.
Remember... YOU ROCK!