We recently caught up with the enigmatic Proscriptor McGovern of Absu, one of the most influential acts in American mythological occult metal. In this in-depth interview, we dive into the band’s evolving lineup, musical inspirations, and Proscriptor’s unique artistic vision.
Todd Owens:
“So I guess you do a lot of reading and studying?”
Proscriptor:
“Yes, that’s correct.”
Todd Owens:
“I want to ask you about this particular lineup. You guys have been going for about eight years with this core group of three, right? In your first incarnation, there were a lot of lineup changes. So, is there a reason this group has stuck together for so long? Did you just find the right people?”
Proscriptor:
“One difficult aspect about Absu’s lineup in the past has been the meticulous process of finding members who are on the same mental planes and plateaus as myself—residing in Dallas, Texas.
With the latest lineup that has coagulated over the past eight months—featuring Ezezu and Vis Crom—it has become the strongest and most stalwart lineup in Absu’s 25-year history.
It’s been a long, grueling 25 years, but I am most satisfied with this particular trio.”
Todd Owens:
“Okay, you kind of answered and asked at the same time. Can you compare and contrast the first 13 years of Absu and then the second phase after that four- or five-year break?”
Proscriptor:
“Yes. It is like two totally different bands. The original lineup—myself, Shaftiel, and Equitant—were perpetual comrades for a very long time, and still are to this day.
But people walk and meander down different pathways. It’s always prosperous to embrace change. I decided to carry on, and I still have the utmost respect for the original lineup. Like I mentioned earlier, it’s good for the soul and energy-wise to travel down different paths.”
Todd Owens:
“I want to ask you about the music itself. You’ve spoken lyrically about some of the themes, but what about musical influences? What inspired you—70s, 80s stuff?”
Proscriptor:
“Particularly, 1980s Teutonic thrash from Germany has always been a key element of inspiration for Absu.
But on a personal level, I’m an immense fan of 60s psychedelic music and especially 70s progressive rock and jazz fusion. I try to incorporate those influences into my percussive execution in Absu’s music.
There are a lot of elements that formulate our style of mythological occult metal, and I believe we stand apart from the norm, globally.”
Todd Owens:
“Is there any particular black metal band or scene that influenced you? I know black metal isn’t all that you do, but it’s part of your sound.”
Proscriptor:
“That’s a pretty extensive question to answer. I’m still an immense fan of the second wave of black metal, which exploded in the early ’90s.
But today, I mostly follow my own trail of inspiration and influences. I’m still a fan of black/thrash, though.”
Todd Owens:
“Were you a fan of Norwegian black metal? The classic bands—some of that second-generation stuff?”
Proscriptor:
“Yes. Enslaved, Emperor, Darkthrone, Ved Buens Ende, and Arcturus—those are probably my top bands from the Norwegian territory.”
Todd Owens:
“How old were you when you started playing drums?”
Proscriptor:
“Pretty young—seven.”
Todd Owens:
“And even back then, were you into bands? Was it still the 60s and 70s stuff?”
Proscriptor:
“Yes. King Crimson, Genesis, Emerson, Lake & Palmer—definitely.”
Todd Owens:
“You’ve probably been asked this a million times, but what was it like auditioning for Slayer? That was around 12 years ago, right?”
Proscriptor:
“It was a unique opportunity. When they were holding auditions in 2002, there were only three cities in the U.S. where they held them: San Francisco, Peoria (Illinois), and Dallas.
Since I live in Dallas, it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up—even if I didn’t make the final cut. It was a great experience and something I can talk about now.”
Todd Owens:
“Who was there when you auditioned—just Kerry King?”
Proscriptor:
“Yes, just Kerry King.”
Todd Owens:
“Let me ask you about gear—if you care to talk about it. Anything you’re currently using?”
Proscriptor:
“I’m currently endorsed by Trick pedals, Ahead sticks, and TRX cymbals. As for drums, I have a hybrid kit made up of several manufacturers. Those are my weapons of choice.”
Todd Owens:
“Anything else? Touring-wise, once this tour is over, are you going back to finish the album?”
Proscriptor:
“We do have some select festival dates that we’ll fulfill through the remainder of 2016. Once this tour is officially completed, the number one priority will be to complete the next album, which is titled Apsu. That will be released in November 2016.”
Todd Owens:
“All right. I just want to say thank you—it’s an honor to meet you. As far as American black metal or mythological occult metal goes, I think you guys are the best.”
Proscriptor:
“Thank you again for this interview. And remember: never blow out the eastern candle.”
Catch Absu on tour and stream Absu wherever you get your music.
Watch the full video interview below.
Interview by Todd Owens | Editing by Capital Chaos TV
Categories: Absu, Interviews
Capital Chaos TV 
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