BY NIGHT Interview

The Gauntlet: What has the band been doing in preparation for the 'We Are The Enemy' Tour?

Henrik Persson: We have recruited a stand-in bassist since Simon (guitars) is studying right now I (Henrik, bass) have taken over the guitar parts this half year. So we have just tried to get as many shows before the tour to make him feel comfortable. As well, we have written some new material.

The Gauntlet: You recorded the split CD as well as the full length album, "Burn The Flags" at StudioMega. Why did you choose to use this studio again?

Henrik Persson: Because we were pretty satisfied with what we accomplished there on our first recording which was only a two-day recording. Besides it was perfect since it's really close to us and we knew the studioguy from before. He knew exactly how we wanted to sound. And we are very satisfied with what "Burn the flags" turned out to be.

The Gauntlet: What are the meanings behind the lyrics of the band? Do you intend to send a certain message or prefer that your lyrics are left open to interpretation by fans?

Henrik Persson: I think there is no meanings to leave lyrics open for interpretation, as long as it isn't pure poetry. Our lyrics don't try to hide any hidden message within the songs. They're just simply dealing with the social problems the world faces today. Criticism towards ourselves and society. We are not politically active, but our lyrics get to be political since it's almost impossible not to be political when criticising society. It deals with everything from Oppression, Racial Hatred, Daily problems in general and how we tend to neglect love and show hatred instead.

The Gauntlet: How has the response to the CD been in Europe?

Henrik Persson: I don't know exactly yet. I talked to Stefan at Lifeforce about it and he said that the feedback has been amazing, but I don't know about any sales rate yet, which isn't that important. The most important thing is that our name gets recognised and people shows up to our concerts.

The Gauntlet: Any plans for a US tour when the "We Are The Enemy" tour wraps up?

Henrik Persson: We have no plans for the moment but we sure want to go overseas and tour US. It's a bit of a dream that actually shouldn't be far away. I hope we'll show up their either later this year or in early 2006.

The Gauntlet: What do you view as the primary differences between most European and American bands?

Henrik Persson: Hmm, hard to say really. I think American bands have things easier going in order to get big and large amount of sales. Americans probably have more attitude than most European bands. But I honestly don't know. Please tell me I'm wrong.

The Gauntlet: Does the group consider itself to be a Christian band? Do the teachings of Christ play a role in the band's music in any way?

Henrik Persson: Nope, we do not handle religion in our lyrics or music since all in the band have different beliefs. We just play because we love the music, our lyrics comes second. Personally I think religion and propaganda shouldn't be part of any type of music, it's an easy way of brainwashing individuals. But of course, if people find comfort in the lyrics it should be allright. I also think that are a lot of Christian bands that do not get the attention they deserve musically since people within extreme music tend to have hard time listening to the lyrics. I think it is important to stay open-minded and tolerant to all kinds of music and messages, but still have a criticising eye on it all.

The Gauntlet: Why did you choose to name the band By Night? Does it have a special meaning for you?

Henrik Persson: Hehe, not really. It's a name we took when we played more traditional Swedish death metal. And the lyrics weren't as important as they are today. The lyrics dealt more with mysteries and murders than social problems and political issues.

The Gauntlet: If Adrian's comment on the band site is "Let me be", why does he choose to be in a group that tours, etc.? Does he not enjoy the attention?

Henrik Persson: Haha, that's nothing get hooked up on. That's just something we joke about when having fun. It's a sample of our weird and "lousy" humour. I think that if he didn't enjoy attention he would've never started singing.

The Gauntlet: What is the hardest thing about being a band from Sweden? Do the band members wish to remain in Sweden throughout their lifetimes?

Henrik Persson: Sweden is a wonderful and safe country; we probably want to stay here as long as possible. The people here are kind trustworthy. Some times a bit credulous which maybe wrong people take advantage of.

The Gauntlet: What is the most commonly used Swedish curse word? Do you use this often?

Henrik Persson: Hehe it's probably "Fan!" which is like "Fuck" but doesn't mean fuck. Fan is a synonym for the devil. Personally I use it often. Maybe too often? Sweden is a really free and nice country, cause we never censors words on TV except when it's used to protect people from getting recognised and stuff.

The Gauntlet: How do you feel the songs on "Burn The Flags" are different in comparison to the band's Split with Cipher System?

Henrik Persson: They're a lot more mature and we have certainly found the sound we've been searching for on the full-length. We have used a lot more elements from hardcore than from thrash but we've also used more groove rhythms and heavy parts on Burn the flags.

The Gauntlet: What do you see as the biggest opportunity for bands in Europe to become well known in the United States?

Henrik Persson: The most important thing is to have a label that supports you all the way, and are ready to spend money and take risks. Secondly, one has to have a great portion of luck and timing. We are ready to take risks and give everything for music. Hopefully we'll be recognised as a band in the states.

The Gauntlet: Varf�r vara frisk i en sjuk v�rld?

Henrik Persson: Hehe, did you get that from our website? "Why be sane in an insane world?" that's what it means.
One should stand out as a role model to others, maybe that's why?