How did Dark Sky originally come together as a band and what inspired you to pursue metal music specifically?
Back then we wanted to start a band at our school and of course we wanted to make the same music as our idols AC/DC, Scorpions or Judas Priest. Luckily there were four boys from our class who all liked rock music. The fifth musician we finally found through an ad was our singer at the time, who was a guest worker from England. Unlike us students, he was already 31 years old and had a driver’s license, which was of course perfect for traveling to concerts 😉
Can you tell us a bit about the themes and inspirations behind your latest album?
Immediately after our last tour at the end of 2018, we started writing new songs. Then came the pandemic and with it the extreme restrictions and bans, which were catastrophic and not just for us musicians. These experiences shaped some of the contents of the CD, both the lyrics and the sound.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
I think symphonic, orchestral keyboards, with driving guitars and a lot of melody in the vocals, plus strong choirs and a groovy rhythm.
What is the songwriting process like for Dark Sky? Do you typically collaborate as a group or individually?
I usually collect my song ideas and those of my colleagues and then pre-produce them together with my producer in his studio. Afterwards, everyone brings their own inspiration to the songs on their instrument before everything is finally recorded in the studio.
Are there any specific bands or musicians that have had a significant influence on your music?
In any case! As already mentioned, it used to be bands like Scorpions, AC/DC or Bon Jovi, today it’s more bands like Powerwolf, Nightwish or Pretty Maids.
Dark Sky has been active for over four decades now. What has been the key to your longevity and success in the metal scene?
I think it’s a mix of persistence and joy in music that has kept the band alive over the years. Due to the changes in the band’s line-up over the years, there were always new inspirations and experiences that were formative for DARK SKY.
How do you feel the metal genre has evolved or changed since Dark Sky first started out?
Well, of course the influences of new musicians and bands have changed the different styles of hard rock music. Nevertheless, there is still melodic metal today, which sometimes seems more or less heavy. But metal as a musical genre has become much more diverse and the days when melodic rock was mainstream everywhere are certainly a bit over. Nevertheless, fans of rock still unite at the many great festivals every year.
Have you faced any challenges or obstacles as a metal band from Germany in terms of breaking into international markets?
Of course you need good contacts in order to get the chance to play concerts outside of Germany. We are very happy to have a competent partner in the Angels PR agency with whom we work together. But first of all you as a band need to have a good product, i.e. a good album and attractive music videos. And we are very satisfied with our current album “Signs Of The Time” and with Tisbe Production as our partner for video productions.
Are there any memorable or standout moments from your career so far that you’d like to share?
There have certainly been many unforgettable moments in recent years. On the one hand, of course, outstanding concerts on big stages, such as the performances with the Scorpions or the first festival in the Czech Republic at the Winter Masters of Rock. But the releases of our albums and music videos were always highlights. Of course, it’s also always exciting to meet other artists from great bands with whom you perform at concerts or festivals.
Could you shed some light on your upcoming tour plans or any new projects that Dark Sky fans can look forward to?
You’re welcome, we’re currently working on new songs for the next DARK SKY album and would like to release a new music video for the upcoming festivals in summer 2024. In general, we are really looking forward to the interesting festivals at which we will be appearing for the first time this year. We’re also trying to do a small tour in the fall or winter supporting a larger band to reach an even larger audience.
Finally, is there any message or advice that you would like to give to aspiring metal musicians or your dedicated fanbase?
No matter where you perform live, always try to do your best. Make the music that comes from your heart so that you can play it honestly.
We are looking forward to the concerts and to our fans, it would be wonderful if we could also perform in Greece someday. See you soon!!!
DARK SKY – Signs Of The Time (Official Music Video)
DARK SKY – Forgiveness (Official Music Video 4k) 2023
Dark Sky – Heroes On Ice (Official Music Video 4K) 2023
DARK SKY – Fools (Official Music Video) 2023
