We are excited to share an exclusive interview with Andrés Bernal, the lead guitarist of CYGNUS, our favorite Viking metal band. We had the opportunity to sit down with him and talk about his musical influences, the band's composition process, his favorite songs to play live, and much more.
During the interview, Andrés spoke to us about his main musical influences and how they have impacted his playing style, as well as the challenges the band currently faces and their long-term goals. He also shared special anecdotes from live performances and gave us a unique insight into the development of songs within CYGNUS.
What are your main musical influences and how have they impacted your playing style?
A: My main influences in music are GUNS N' ROSES, Yngwie Malmsteen, Iron Maiden, and Ritchie Blackmore. They impacted me with their sound and their versatile playing technique.
Is there a particular guitarist or band that has been a great inspiration for you?
A: The band that most inspired me to play is GUNS N' ROSES and their guitarist Slash.
How do you integrate these influences into the unique style of Viking metal in the band?
A: To play Viking metal, I am greatly influenced by Yngwie Malmsteen. He is a Swedish guitarist who uses Nordic scales, and that kind of influence helps me integrate those sounds into Viking music.
What is your favorite song to play live and why?
A: My favorite song to play live with the band is “Odin's Wolves.” This song is pretty demanding, and has beautiful melodies everywhere.
Is there a song in the band's repertoire that stands out to you due to its complexity, emotional impact, or audience response?
A: Yes, “Fenrir the Wolf.”
Do you have a special memory from a live performance that stands out in your mind?
A: A gig at the Cali Music Hall. it was a nice night.
How would you describe the composition process within the band and your role in it?
A: I enjoy composing the solos with Deneb. These are moments full of inspiration and hard work, but at the same time, I enjoy and learn a lot.
How do the songs typically develop in the band? Is it a collaborative effort or do individual contributions predominate?
A: The compositions are primarily by Deneb and Ruxx. Then they call me, and we create the guitar solos that perfectly fit the song.
Do you have a particular approach or routine when composing music?
A: It's a particular approach. I wouldn’t know how to define it.
Three words:
3 words to describe Deneb: Genius, master, and great friend.
3 words to describe Jota: Very good musician, excellent singer, and good friend.
3 words to describe Ruxx: Pure living power, very talented, and great friend.
3 words to describe Cygnus: Beautiful Music, Challenging and Power.
What challenges does the band face currently, and how are you addressing them?
A: Everything is a challenge when making music, from composition and recording to bringing the songs to the audience. We address them by giving our all in every opportunity we have.
Are there technical, creative, or logistical aspects that present challenges in creating music and videos?
A: This is handled more by Ruxx and Deneb, you should ask them.
How does the band stay innovative and musically evolving over time?
A: The band stays at the forefront of music by studying new trends, which helps us evolve.
What is your long-term vision for the band, and where would you like to see it evolve in the coming years?
A: We want to see the band playing in Europe, the USA, and everywhere people can appreciate the music we make. Our goal is to be heard and recognized and to bring our music to every corner.
Is there a specific goal that the band is pursuing artistically or professionally?
A: We aim for everything!
How do you imagine the band's music could influence its followers and the music scene in general?
A: In the local music scene, we can be a significant influence since we are practically the only ones making Viking metal in Colombia. We are undoubtedly an influence. Worldwide, we can influence with the messages in our songs and the power of our musicians.
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