Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
Understanding ‘Ascension’
‘Ascension’ is not just another album; it’s a culmination of years of musical exploration and personal growth for the band members. Initially announced in 2019, the project had fans eagerly waiting. However, as the years passed with no release, questions began to arise about the reasons behind the delay.
Insights from Gregor Mackintosh
In a recent interview, Gregor Mackintosh, the band’s lead guitarist and a key creative force, shed light on the factors contributing to the delay of ‘Ascension.’
The Creative Process
According to Mackintosh, one of the primary reasons for the delay was the band’s commitment to perfecting their sound. “We have always been a band that has refused to rush our creative process,” he stated. “Each album is a reflection of where we are musically and personally, and ‘Ascension’ was no different.”
“We wanted to ensure that every note, every lyric, was exactly how we envisioned it. This takes time, and we weren’t willing to compromise on that.” – Gregor Mackintosh
Impact of the Pandemic
The global COVID-19 pandemic also played a significant role in the delay. The restrictions on travel and gatherings affected not only their ability to record but also the collaborative process that is integral to their music-making. Mackintosh explained, “The pandemic was an unforeseen circumstance that affected us deeply. We had to adapt to new ways of creating music, which was a challenge.”
Technological Challenges
While technology has advanced to facilitate remote collaboration, Mackintosh highlighted the limitations they faced. “There’s a certain magic that happens when we are all together in the studio. Trying to replicate that through screens was difficult,” he noted. The band had to navigate the complexities of remote recording and ensure that the quality of their music was not compromised.
Personal Growth and Exploration
During this period, Mackintosh and his bandmates also embarked on personal journeys that influenced the thematic elements of ‘Ascension.’ The band members took this time to reflect on their artistic identities and explore new influences and sounds. “This was a period of introspection for all of us,” Mackintosh said. “We wanted ‘Ascension’ to be a true reflection of who we have become.”
Industry Challenges
Apart from creative and personal factors, the music industry itself posed challenges. The shift towards digital consumption and the decline of physical album sales required the band to rethink their release strategy. Mackintosh elaborated, “Navigating the modern music industry is complex. We had to ensure that our release strategy aligned with how our fans consume music today.”
Maintaining Fan Engagement
Despite the delay, Paradise Lost was committed to maintaining fan engagement. They actively communicated updates and shared snippets of their creative process through social media. Mackintosh emphasized the importance of staying connected with their fanbase, stating, “Our fans have been incredibly supportive, and we wanted to ensure they were part of our journey, even if it took longer than expected.”
The Future of Paradise Lost
With ‘Ascension’ finally nearing completion, Mackintosh expressed optimism about the future. He hinted at new projects and collaborations that lie ahead, promising that the wait will be worthwhile. “We have poured our hearts into this album, and we can’t wait to share it with the world. It marks a new chapter for us,” he concluded.
Conclusion
The journey of ‘Ascension’ serves as a testament to Paradise Lost’s dedication to their craft. While the delay may have tested the patience of fans, it also highlights the band’s unwavering commitment to producing music that is both authentic and impactful. As we anticipate the release of ‘Ascension,’ we are reminded of the band’s enduring legacy and their ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing musical landscape.
In the end, the story of ‘Ascension’ is not just about an album; it’s about the resilience and creativity of a band that continues to inspire countless listeners around the globe. As we await the album’s release, we can only imagine the depth and artistry that Paradise Lost will once again bring to the forefront of gothic and doom metal.