Interview with Vladimir Korg of The Mist

The Brazilian metal scene has always been a captivating force on the global stage, known for its distinctive sound and impactful contributions to genres like thrash, death, and black metal. Among the influential bands that emerged in the late ’80s is The Mist, formed by former members of Chakal and Sepultura. With their fierce thrash metal, they carved a niche for themselves and released several albums in the early ’90s before disbanding. Now, they are back with a powerful new album titled The Dark Side of the Soul, showcasing their signature sound infused with Brazilian flair. We had the chance to speak with vocalist Vladimir Korg about the band’s journey and new music.

Current Activities of The Mist

What’s going on in The Mist camp at the moment?

At present, we are focused on promoting our new album here in Brazil. It’s a challenging time because we need to encourage people to listen to the entire album rather than just singles, which is how many currently consume music. We’re also searching for an agent to help us get back on the road. These are indeed strange times for bands that believe in the concept of full albums.

The Comeback and New Album

As far as I know, The Mist returned in 2018, but it took time before the new album was completed. What finally motivated you to bring the band back and finish a new record?

First, it was crucial for us to mature as musicians and as a band. This wasn’t just a hasty comeback; it was a return in a completely different environment. We needed to gather our original fans while also attracting new ones. The album was only made when we felt ready. Additionally, the pandemic and lineup changes played a significant role in our timeline. We started warming up with the The Circle of the Crow EP, and only after that did we release the album.

Lineup Insights

The current lineup of The Mist includes Vladimir Korg, Wesley Ribeiro, Riccardo Linassi, and Thiago Oliveira. What made each of these musicians a perfect fit for the band?

Thiago Oliveira was initially a substitute. Our main guitarist is Edu Megale, who is an exceptional musician and one of the primary composers for both the EP and the new album.

Reflections on the Past

The Mist disbanded in 1997. What led to your departure after the second album?

It was a complete disconnect. The ’90s were a strange time for metal. The band wanted to explore a sound closer to industrial metal, while I was focused on completing my philosophy degree. During that period, metal in Brazil seemed unsustainable, and many bands were breaking up. Despite that, The Mist managed to release two albums.

Sound and Production

The new album has a strong classic vibe. Was it important to capture an old-school sound?

That wasn’t our intention. We aimed to create something contemporary while retaining our thrash roots without blending into metalcore or modern metal. We wanted to present an updated version of our own thrash metal.

How has the songwriting and recording process changed compared to earlier days?

We had the opportunity to sign with a major label, but that didn’t come through. However, we did manage to record, mix, and master the album with producer André Damien. Initially, I planned to handle the production myself, but Fernando Ribeiro from Moonspell introduced us to his label, Alma Mater, and that partnership allowed us to work with esteemed producer Tue Madsen and secured artwork by Michael Whelan. The significant difference now is the understanding of the new market dynamics, which often makes the struggle for artists more difficult.

Songwriting and Themes

How long did the songwriting process take, and was it a collective effort?

I had already drafted the lyrics during my time in medical school. Once the opportunity for a contract arose, we expedited the process. Megale and I pushed ourselves to compose, and later, Wesley and Lina contributed magnificently. Ultimately, it was a collaborative effort.

Do any of the songs carry specific messages?

Yes, the core message revolves around the inevitability of death. The songs challenge listeners with questions about how they are living their lives. There’s a clear critique of the dehumanization we experience today, becoming more individualistic and obsessed with trivialities, including social media and materialism.

How did you choose the album title?

The artwork by Whelan speaks volumes. It features seemingly innocent children whose gaze reveals a darker side. The title reflects a dialogue between the soul and the body, where the soul desires to transcend while the body clings to hatred and contempt for the present state of humanity.

Final Thoughts on the Album

Overall, how pleased are you with the final result?

I’m thrilled with the album. Every song holds a special meaning for me. If this were the last album of my career, I would feel fulfilled.

Would you say the album leans more towards an old-school or modern approach?

We aim to retain our essence while embracing evolution. Classic thrash bands also seek to renew the genre.

Did you feel pressure due to The Mist’s legacy?

Not at all. I know what I’m doing and how to respect our longtime fans while exploring new paths. As artists, we cannot be confined to past models; the world has evolved, and so has The Mist.

Record Label and Rights

How did you end up signing with Alma Mater Records?

Fernando Ribeiro is like a metal brother to us. We’re proud to collaborate with him on this album. Although we had an offer from a major label, it didn’t materialize, and Fernando’s arrival was timely.

Does Cogumelo Records still hold the rights to your early albums?

Yes, Cogumelo retains the rights to our initial albums, and they continue to support us with distributing The Dark Side of the Soul.

Future Collaborations and the Brazilian Scene

Is a tour with Troops Of Doom possible?

I hope so! We’ve shared the stage a few times in Brazil.

How has the Brazilian metal scene influenced The Mist?

The South American metal scene has a unique passion, deeply rooted in our music. While we draw influences from European and American bands, we add our own distinctive flavor. In Belo Horizonte, bands like Sodom, Destruction, and Kreator heavily influenced us.

Do you miss the old-school Brazilian metal days?

Absolutely. We were young and innocent, striving for a unique sound. Although that uniqueness has diminished, some bands today are trying to reclaim that identity.

Are you still involved with Chakal?

No, I’m no longer active with Chakal. While we remain friends and discuss metal often, my journey with them has concluded. It was an invaluable experience working alongside such talented musicians.

Can you recall the writing and recording of Abominable Anno Domini?

It was raw and filled with youthful fury. We were inexperienced yet managed to create something powerful. I’m still amazed by how we crafted that album alongside bands that later became legends.

What are the most significant Brazilian metal albums ever released?

Some of the most crucial albums include Sarcofago’s INRI, Sepultura’s Morbid Visions, Ratos de Porão’s Descanse em Paz, Dorsal Atlântica’s Antes do Fim, and Explicit Hate’s The Other Side. These works paved the way for Brazilian metal.

Looking Ahead

How does the future look for The Mist?

We hope to perform extensively with this new album, and we look forward to seeing everyone at our shows. Thank you to you and the readers of Metal Rules. Stay metal! Peace!

FAQs

What is the new album by The Mist called?

The new album is titled The Dark Side of the Soul.

Who are the current members of The Mist?

The current lineup includes Vladimir Korg, Wesley Ribeiro, Riccardo Linassi, and Edu Megale.

What themes are explored in the new album?

The album explores themes of mortality and critiques modern society’s dehumanization and obsession with materialism.

How can fans support The Mist?

Fans can support The Mist by listening to their music, attending shows, and following them