Hail and welcome to Iron Backstage! Before we begin the interview, could you please introduce yourself to our readers and provide a brief history of your band?
First and foremost, I want to thank you for taking the time to interview Tine to learn about the band/project. I am Count Murmur the founding and sole member of the band/project “Tine”. Tine was formed as a symphonic blackened death metal band with the initial intent to play as a full band, do live shows, and tour. The band has since become a 1-piece, but it may not stay that way forever! The name of the band/project has interesting origins. In English, a “tine” is a sharp fork or pronged implement which was the perfect name for the band, as the musical sound of Tine is sharp, distinct, piercing, yet cold, like wrought iron. The idea of this band is to create music that expresses my beliefs with a bit of mythology, history, and legends mixed in. Tine is my deepest and most sincere artistic expression.
How would you describe your music, and which bands have been your biggest influences?
The music of Tine is distinctly symphonic blackened death metal. Some songs lean more into one genre while others lean more into the other. But, the music has always been this style from the beginning and will continue to be this style. Tine will always stay true! As far as the biggest influences on the music, I will say that I try not to be swayed by anything. The goal is always to stay true to Tine and not copy anything else. Of course, metal is my heart and soul, and I am a fan of pretty much everything out there that is creative and talented, so my influences are extensive. Still, to answer this question completely, it is important to divulge bands I find inspirational. These bands include such bands as Behemoth and Nile, as good examples. These bands lead genres and truly care about the fans. It’s more than that. There’s so much to say, but I will keep it brief. For example, I have met Nergal back when I was playing in a different opening band and Behemoth treated us with the utmost respect. This is the kind of stuff that sticks in my mind. Similarly, Karl and Nile is the same way. Excellent people, excellent musicians, and true leaders.
How many albums or demos has TINE released so far, and which ones are your personal favorites?
This will mark the 3rd album Tine has released thus far. No demos other than a demo single. In this day and age, demos are no longer necessary. They used to be a way for a band to record a rough recording with the hopes of getting signed [to a record label], but these days doing this is just a waste of time. Create your music to the best of your abilitiy, release it to the world, and record labels be damned is what I say. Follow your heart - don’t pray for a big break. As far as personal favorites, I love all my albums. Each album I work on becomes my favorite at the time. So, “A Winter Horrorscape” is my current favorite, haha!
Has TINE's music evolved over the years, and if so, how?
The symphonic elements of the music have become much deeper and more complex over the years and the music has become heavier. Of course, Tine is always Tine, however.
How long does it typically take for TINE to record an album?
Recording an album seems to take about a month or so, mostly because when I record, I have to do it in chunks. This music is very intense. I can’t simply lay down multiple vocals takes for every song all at once, otherwise, I would destroy my vocals. Some songs require endurance, so laying down many takes for these songs is challenging. When you play a song live, you simply play the song. When you are studio recording, you have to lay down take after perfect take, so it can really be a test of endurance to do all at once - especially being I am one person doing it all. So, yes - I would say about a month or so to record a full album.
Can you tell us more about your latest album, A Winter Horrorscape?
The album is a concept album basically about the horrors of a sentient and malevolent winter. Most of the songs and themes of the album embody this, although there are some songs that meander from the theme a bit such as “A Feather from Lucifer’s Wing” and “Ex Cathedra”. Otherwise, the album stays true and consistent to the theme, sort of telling the story of a forlorn traveler trapped in a winter forest. Initially, in the early stages of the writing process of the album, it didn’t start as a winter themed album, but as the music continued to take shape, it was clear that the direction was “Winter” and “Horror”. So, I let the music guide me through the creative process and ultimately this decided the theme of the album for me. As far as the music, I would say it is more concise than previous albums (it is a much shorter album), and the session musicians have added a lot to the fold. For example, I wrote the symphonic section of the album, but later had Samantha (Rogue Violin) sort of re-write them (more like revise them) and play them live instead of my synthesized keys. So, this really added a whole new dynamic to this album. The drums also have more personality with Nikola doing the sessions drums this time around instead of my synthetic drums like before. It truly gives the album a whole new dynamic compared to previous albums.
What's next for TINE? Are you working on any new albums, and if so, can you give us some details?
Right now, I am continuing to support this new, upcoming album and focusing strictly on that. Some loose ideas are beginning to take shape for some new songs, but, as always, I let the music guide me. Sometimes, the music comes to me quickly - other times patience is required.
Have you ever done any opening acts for major heavyweight bands? If so, when and where?
Not in the context of Tine, but I have in previous band(s). I have opened for Behemoth and Six Feet Under, as some examples. Because Tine is currently just Count Murmur and no other permanent members, it is difficult to be able to play shows. Perhaps one day in the future this will change...
What is your opinion on the metal scene in Pennsylvania?
The metal scene is very strong in the cities, particularly, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. In western PA, where I am currently located, the scene was even stronger when they would have Mayhem Festival, but that has not been a thing for several years now. When shows come around, people show up. So, there is definitely a strong presence. I think the metal scene would be even stronger if it had the support with the festivals and such.
Do you have any messages for our readers?
Yes! Thank you for supporting Tine and supporting Iron Backstage. The support truly means everything. Tine exists because of the amazing fans across the world. No matter where in the world you are, horns high to you! Hails! \m/
https://www.instagram.com/tineblackdeath/
