Norwegian black metal bands are generally not that interested in press and Khold is no exception. Drummer and founding member, Sarke, got straight to the point with this short and sweet interview:

The Gauntlet: You put Khold on hold for over two years before releasing “Hundre År Gammal.” What were you doing in your time off?

Sarke: Gard and I recorded a new album with our other band, Tulus, and got up to some non-musical endeavors as well.

The Gauntlet: When did you actually start writing the new album?

Sarke: Maybe around six month before we entered the studio. It’s hard to say since I am always trying to make some music now and then.

The Gauntlet: Did the recording process go smoothly, are you proud of how the album turned out?

Sarke: Yes, I think it turned out great. We recorded the album live in a studio in Sweden. It was a new way for us to work. It went quite smoothly.

The Gauntlet: Why did you leave an established metal label like Candlelight for Tabu Records?

Sarke: One word: Money.

The Gauntlet: What is the significance of having all of your lyrics be in Norwegian?

Sarke: We feel that it fits our music better than English would. It gives us a more authentic feeling.

The Gauntlet: Do you think your music reflects Norwegian culture and history as a whole? How so?

Sarke: Not so much. We deal with some of it, but its mostly based on smaller self-made stories.

The Gauntlet: Who is the greatest Norwegian black metal band of all time? How about NON-Norwegian?

Sarke: For me it’s Mayhem and Darkthrone. Maybe Celtic Frost outside of Norway if we can call them a black metal band.

The Gauntlet: Will you ever make it over to play some shows in the U.S.?

Sarke: I hope so. It would be great for us. But someone has to book us first. We have never got any offers from the U.S. that I can remember.

The Gauntlet: What is your favorite album of 2008 besides yours?

Sarke: I don’t know. I don’t think I have bought any CDs this year. If you ask me next year I can answer Slayer ☺.