Got a question for Ihsahn (Emperor/Peccatum/solo artist)? Post 'em here!

Makelele · 07-05-2008, 03:33 PM

This is definitely going to be one of the most interesting interviews on this site.

Digital Black · 07-05-2008, 05:20 PM

I am such a huge fan of all his works. I'd just like to see the questions focused around his gear.

By the way did you run this past Chris?

(I'm definatly for it!)

Ancestor · 07-07-2008, 09:03 AM

i would be very interested to know what his rehearsal situation is like. how often he plays with a complete band, what kind of configuration they use (miking, amps, etc.), how loud they play and anything else he cares to add about it.

does he still study technique or theory and if so what does he study?

Crucified · 07-07-2008, 11:16 AM

how has your viewpoint on metal as a genre changed over the years?

what do you think of the new genres popping up like "deathcore" and what are your thoughts on older mainstays like grindcore?

If you could share the stage with any band, working right now, who would it be and why?

DDDorian · 07-07-2008, 12:24 PM

I doubt I'll go into the murders/incarcerations/etc, for two reasons:

1 - Ihsahn himself didn't actually commit any crimes
2 - This is a guitar site, not a gossip blog; the info's out there and probably doesn't need to be discussed any further

...but we'll see, I guess.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Digital Black

By the way did you run this past Chris?

Sure did

All of the interviews opportunities I've had so far serendipitously presented themselves a while back, so once this one is done, that'll be it, for a while at least. I was just surprised that Ihsahn knew of the site, I guess there's no fjord too grim for the adminishredder

PostOrganic · 07-08-2008, 10:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr. S

The Emperor Tab book was fantastic and really in depth, any chance of him doing one for The Adversary and angL?

+1 for this question. That tab book is awesome, I wish it wasn't based on the scattered ashes thing and instead he did books for each album instead but I'll take what I can get

. I would really love to see a tab book for angL.

SamSam · 07-09-2008, 11:24 AM

Ihsahn has also beena huge influence on me and was one of the main factors when it came to the decision of buying a 7 string. Especially the Prometheus and Adversary albums.

1. The music on Prometheus was more complex than previous albums, using many harmonies and time changes than previous works. How did he come to introducing these elements to Emperor and were there any difficulties in playing the lead parts and singing at the same time?

2. Does he have formal music training? I think he has written some fantastic solos. Called By The Fire immediately springs to mind as the solo is very memorable and has some great moments.

3. Was the transition from 6 to 7 string difficult?

4.The music became more complex along with the extended range. Was this as a result of the playing the instrument or the change made with this in mind?

5. What Amps and effects were used on Prometheus?

Quite a few questions haha but he's one of my idols and one of the few guitarists who I can say has had an impact on my playing!
A living legend as far as im concerned!

Oh god I'm going all fan boy....

auxioluck · 07-09-2008, 05:18 PM

What did he utilize for musical inspiration/Where does he continue to be inspired from?

Mr. S · 07-09-2008, 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PostOrganic

+1 for this question. That tab book is awesome, I wish it wasn't based on the scattered ashes thing and instead he did books for each album instead but I'll take what I can get

. I would really love to see a tab book for angL.

also I'd love to see one for Prometheus, gawd I love that album

sepherus · 07-10-2008, 02:10 AM

He has stated that Rob Halford is one of his main influences in singing/melodic vocals (despite more similarities with King Diamond), who are his guitar influneces?

In a recent interview he stated that he used to change pickups and such, but has now opted to keep the stock options in his gear because he feels that it doesn't make enough of a difference. Is this just going on common dimarzio, duncan and EMG pickups, or does this include smaller companies that most people consider to bring out the most of a gutiar such as BKP, Lundgren, etc? Does this philosophy also apply to speakers/cabs?

What is the most interesting moment that has happened in his musical career, be it studio, stage, lessons, or other?

What is his most bizarre musical taste, be it something crazy (like some little known early tweleve-tone composer), or just something surprizing (like a popstar)?

DDDorian · 07-15-2008, 05:22 AM

*bump*

DDDorian · 07-25-2008, 03:49 AM

Last *BUMP* before I send this sucker off!

Mr. S · 07-25-2008, 04:14 AM

I cant wait for this

Shaman · 07-25-2008, 11:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr. S

I cant wait for this

Agreed!

ilyti · 07-25-2008, 12:51 PM

That is very cool. I'm a big fan of all his work.

Kind of a goofy question, and I know it should be kept guitar-related, but I've been wondering about this.
With your previous bands, it seems like touring for album support was never a high priority, meaning tours didn't last as long as many other metal bands. Is this because you just don't enjoy it (being on the road and on stage), or does it have anything to do with keeping some "mystery" around the music?
As for the many projects, how does he decide what projects to work on and when, and how does he decide when it's time to retire something, like Emperor or Peccatum?

Justin Bailey · 07-25-2008, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyti

That is very cool. I'm a big fan of all his work.

Kind of a goofy question, and I know it should be kept guitar-related, but I've been wondering about this.
With your previous bands, it seems like touring for album support was never a high priority, meaning tours didn't last as long as many other metal bands. Is this because you just don't enjoy it (being on the road and on stage), or does it have anything to do with keeping some "mystery" around the music?
As for the many projects, how does he decide what projects to work on and when, and how does he decide when it's time to retire something, like Emperor or Peccatum?

You should take a look at this...
MetalKult » IHSAHN: The MetalKult Interview

If I remember correctly he answers your touring question exactly.

ilyti · 07-25-2008, 02:10 PM

Yeah I saw that interview, it's what got me wondering. He mentions he's not a big fan of touring, but he doesn't say why.

Justin Bailey · 07-25-2008, 03:58 PM

yep you're right, it doesn't really answer the question sorry about that.

Jongpil Yun · 07-25-2008, 09:19 PM

1) Has he ever considered a multi-scale / fanned fret guitar?
2) Any chance of hearing him on an Opeth album now?
3) Is his throat in good health? 17 years doing those kind of vocals has got to be tough work. How about his ears?
4) What's he think about the EMGs in the Ibanez RG2228?
5) Has he ever considered Blackouts or passives in some kind of signature 8 string?
6) Is he satisfied with the scale length?
7) What kind of string gauges is he using?
8) Does he think basswood, alder, mahogany+maple or some other body wood is the best for his style of music?
9) Has he ever tried any of the guys from Meshuggah's gear? I'm asking since they're other prominent 7/8 string users and tune LOW.
10) What's he think of the Orange cabinets and the Tiny Terror?
11) What's his favorite Emperor/Peccatum/solo album song to play from a purely technical guitar playing standpoint?
12) What song/album is he most proud of?
13) What are some of his favorite chords/progressions?

Volsung · 07-25-2008, 09:54 PM

Everybody has already asked the main questions that I would have asked, so my questions here are kind of stupid, but here we go.

1. This 1st question has been bugging the hell out of me for some time. It's kind of dumb, but it fits the subject of guitar talk.

During the "Anthems" era of Emperor, where did yourself and Samoth (along with a good portion of 2nd wave Black Metal bands in Scandinavia) buy those B.C. Rich guitars with the reverse headstocks and Floyd Rose trems? In the states, we got stuck with the really cheap Bronze series and the hot pink 80s Hair Metal guitars. How did you find those? (they're just so damn cool)

Again, kind of dumb and off topic to his current setup, but I still wonder how they aquired those. I just can't find a Warlock, Mockingbird, Ironbird, Bich, etc. with a Flyod and a reverse headstock in the states (or anywhere else for that matter).

2. Another dumb question.

How do you pronounce your name correctly?

I know he said it in the Metal Kult video, but I'd like to confirm it.

The main one I'm conserned about is the first one and if you can manage to fit that into all of the other good questions asked already, I'd be a happy camper.

LordOVchaoS · 07-25-2008, 09:58 PM

Man, I don't have any questions for him but I do want to express my utmost respect for the man I believe to be the only true composer of this era.

I watch Emperial Live Ceremony almost daily and I show it to every musician that comes over to my house.

Mr. S · 07-26-2008, 06:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LordOVchaoS

I watch Emperial Live Ceremony almost daily and I show it to every musician that comes over to my house.

I have the CD, best.live.album.EVAR!!!

DaemonSvek · 07-31-2008, 07:11 AM

was there any ill feelings from anyone else in the scene about Emperor's use of the 7 strings. all i want to know

Mr. S · 10-02-2008, 11:13 AM

is this still going ahead?

DDDorian · 10-02-2008, 11:38 AM

All good things come to those who wait

07-05-2008, 03:33 PM	#26
Makelele ss.org Regular Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Finland Posts: 1,999 Thanked: 25	This is definitely going to be one of the most interesting interviews on this site. __________________ Now I lay me down to sleep Blah, blah, blah my soul to keep If I die before I wake I'll go to hell for heaven's sake

07-05-2008, 05:20 PM	#27
Digital Black Divinitus Infallibilis Join Date: May 2004 Location: Cleveland , Ohio Posts: 5,323 Thanked: 20	I am such a huge fan of all his works. I'd just like to see the questions focused around his gear. By the way did you run this past Chris? (I'm definatly for it!) __________________ Born of Fire//--\\ Consumed by it Divinitus Infallibilis

07-07-2008, 11:16 AM	#29
Crucified Deathgrind Maniac Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Victoria BC Posts: 1,828 Thanked: 57 $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Crucified is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$	how has your viewpoint on metal as a genre changed over the years? what do you think of the new genres popping up like "deathcore" and what are your thoughts on older mainstays like grindcore? If you could share the stage with any band, working right now, who would it be and why? __________________ ------------------------ Don't talk shit about total.

07-25-2008, 04:14 AM	#38
Mr. S tacos? Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Cambridge, UK Posts: 2,555 Thanked: 29	I cant wait for this __________________ Knights that say

07-25-2008, 03:58 PM	#43
Justin Bailey still no seven Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: connecticut the grimmest in the union Posts: 1,441 Thanked: 16	yep you're right, it doesn't really answer the question sorry about that. __________________ "Engl Powerball miraculously fits my outrage, and shakes my great balls of frost!" Abbath on ENGL Amps

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07-07-2008, 09:03 AM	#28
Ancestor Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 3,260 Thanked: 35 $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$ $Ancestor is rather kvlt and tr00. \m/$	i would be very interested to know what his rehearsal situation is like. how often he plays with a complete band, what kind of configuration they use (miking, amps, etc.), how loud they play and anything else he cares to add about it. does he still study technique or theory and if so what does he study?

07-09-2008, 11:24 AM	#32
SamSam GAS problems Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Gibraltar Posts: 517 Thanked: 10	Ihsahn has also beena huge influence on me and was one of the main factors when it came to the decision of buying a 7 string. Especially the Prometheus and Adversary albums. 1. The music on Prometheus was more complex than previous albums, using many harmonies and time changes than previous works. How did he come to introducing these elements to Emperor and were there any difficulties in playing the lead parts and singing at the same time? 2. Does he have formal music training? I think he has written some fantastic solos. Called By The Fire immediately springs to mind as the solo is very memorable and has some great moments. 3. Was the transition from 6 to 7 string difficult? 4.The music became more complex along with the extended range. Was this as a result of the playing the instrument or the change made with this in mind? 5. What Amps and effects were used on Prometheus? Quite a few questions haha but he's one of my idols and one of the few guitarists who I can say has had an impact on my playing! A living legend as far as im concerned! Oh god I'm going all fan boy....

07-09-2008, 05:18 PM	#33
auxioluck Metal Teddy Bear Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Kansas City, MO Posts: 1,894 Thanked: 35	What did he utilize for musical inspiration/Where does he continue to be inspired from?

07-10-2008, 02:10 AM	#35
sepherus The Crimson Comedian Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Syracuse, NY Posts: 1,070 Thanked: 17	He has stated that Rob Halford is one of his main influences in singing/melodic vocals (despite more similarities with King Diamond), who are his guitar influneces? In a recent interview he stated that he used to change pickups and such, but has now opted to keep the stock options in his gear because he feels that it doesn't make enough of a difference. Is this just going on common dimarzio, duncan and EMG pickups, or does this include smaller companies that most people consider to bring out the most of a gutiar such as BKP, Lundgren, etc? Does this philosophy also apply to speakers/cabs? What is the most interesting moment that has happened in his musical career, be it studio, stage, lessons, or other? What is his most bizarre musical taste, be it something crazy (like some little known early tweleve-tone composer), or just something surprizing (like a popstar)?

07-15-2008, 05:22 AM	#36
DDDorian Punk's not dead. • Super Moderator • Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Middle of nowhere, Australia Posts: 3,960 Thanked: 209	bump

07-25-2008, 03:49 AM	#37
DDDorian Punk's not dead. • Super Moderator • Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Middle of nowhere, Australia Posts: 3,960 Thanked: 209	Last BUMP before I send this sucker off!

07-25-2008, 12:51 PM	#40
ilyti Lazy Ryebread Viking Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ottawa, ON Posts: 252 Thanked: 0	That is very cool. I'm a big fan of all his work. Kind of a goofy question, and I know it should be kept guitar-related, but I've been wondering about this. With your previous bands, it seems like touring for album support was never a high priority, meaning tours didn't last as long as many other metal bands. Is this because you just don't enjoy it (being on the road and on stage), or does it have anything to do with keeping some "mystery" around the music? As for the many projects, how does he decide what projects to work on and when, and how does he decide when it's time to retire something, like Emperor or Peccatum?

07-25-2008, 02:10 PM	#42
ilyti Lazy Ryebread Viking Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ottawa, ON Posts: 252 Thanked: 0	Yeah I saw that interview, it's what got me wondering. He mentions he's not a big fan of touring, but he doesn't say why.

07-25-2008, 09:19 PM	#44
Jongpil Yun Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Seattle, WA Posts: 2,339 Thanked: 27	1) Has he ever considered a multi-scale / fanned fret guitar? 2) Any chance of hearing him on an Opeth album now? 3) Is his throat in good health? 17 years doing those kind of vocals has got to be tough work. How about his ears? 4) What's he think about the EMGs in the Ibanez RG2228? 5) Has he ever considered Blackouts or passives in some kind of signature 8 string? 6) Is he satisfied with the scale length? 7) What kind of string gauges is he using? 8) Does he think basswood, alder, mahogany+maple or some other body wood is the best for his style of music? 9) Has he ever tried any of the guys from Meshuggah's gear? I'm asking since they're other prominent 7/8 string users and tune LOW. 10) What's he think of the Orange cabinets and the Tiny Terror? 11) What's his favorite Emperor/Peccatum/solo album song to play from a purely technical guitar playing standpoint? 12) What song/album is he most proud of? 13) What are some of his favorite chords/progressions? __________________ Whether it's laughable or irrational, this is the path that ALL great men walk! If there's a wall in our way, we'll destroy it! If there's no road, we'll pave it with our own hands! The magma in our hearts is blazing like flames! Who the hell do you think we are?

07-25-2008, 09:54 PM	#45
Volsung ss.org Regular Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Reno, NV Posts: 192 Thanked: 3	Everybody has already asked the main questions that I would have asked, so my questions here are kind of stupid, but here we go. 1. This 1st question has been bugging the hell out of me for some time. It's kind of dumb, but it fits the subject of guitar talk. During the "Anthems" era of Emperor, where did yourself and Samoth (along with a good portion of 2nd wave Black Metal bands in Scandinavia) buy those B.C. Rich guitars with the reverse headstocks and Floyd Rose trems? In the states, we got stuck with the really cheap Bronze series and the hot pink 80s Hair Metal guitars. How did you find those? (they're just so damn cool) Again, kind of dumb and off topic to his current setup, but I still wonder how they aquired those. I just can't find a Warlock, Mockingbird, Ironbird, Bich, etc. with a Flyod and a reverse headstock in the states (or anywhere else for that matter). 2. Another dumb question. How do you pronounce your name correctly? I know he said it in the Metal Kult video, but I'd like to confirm it. The main one I'm conserned about is the first one and if you can manage to fit that into all of the other good questions asked already, I'd be a happy camper.

07-25-2008, 09:58 PM	#46
LordOVchaoS NUDE MAN! Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Warrensburg, MO Posts: 4,392 Thanked: 73	Man, I don't have any questions for him but I do want to express my utmost respect for the man I believe to be the only true composer of this era. I watch Emperial Live Ceremony almost daily and I show it to every musician that comes over to my house. __________________ www.bodenhamer-electronics.com the official gain merchant of sevenstring.org.

07-31-2008, 07:11 AM	#48
DaemonSvek Banned Join Date: May 2008 Location: Louisiana/Virginia Posts: 186 Thanked: 3	was there any ill feelings from anyone else in the scene about Emperor's use of the 7 strings. all i want to know

10-02-2008, 11:13 AM	#49
Mr. S tacos? Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Cambridge, UK Posts: 2,555 Thanked: 29	is this still going ahead? __________________ Knights that say

10-02-2008, 11:38 AM	#50
DDDorian Punk's not dead. • Super Moderator • Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Middle of nowhere, Australia Posts: 3,960 Thanked: 209	All good things come to those who wait

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Got a question for Ihsahn (Emperor/Peccatum/solo artist)? Post 'em here!