Exclusive Interview with Metal Madness Weekly
Norwegian progressive metal outfit Octohawk continues to build momentum with their atmospheric and thought-provoking music. Their latest single, Samsara, blends heavy riffs, cinematic textures, and philosophical themes into a powerful listening experience.
Metal Madness Weekly spoke with Christian Schei about the band's identity, songwriting process, influences, and future plans.
## Introducing Octohawk
Q: For readers who are discovering Octohawk for the first time, how would you describe the band's sound and identity?
> "I'd say we're a progressive metal band that isn't afraid to mix heavy riffs with atmosphere and melody. We enjoy writing music that has twists and turns instead of following the obvious path. Some songs are aggressive and technical, others are more emotional and cinematic. We just write the music we'd like to hear ourselves."
## The Meaning Behind “Samsara”
Q: What inspired the creation of ‘Samsara,’ and what message or story does the song carry?
> "The idea came from thinking about existence, consciousness and the possibility that everything is connected in ways we don't fully understand. The title Samsara points towards the endless cycle of life, death and rebirth, but the lyrics also bring in ideas from science and cosmology. It's not a song that tells people what to believe. It's more an invitation to reflect and maybe come away with your own interpretation."
## Musical Influences
Q: The track has a very cinematic and atmospheric feeling. Which artists, bands, or other influences helped shape this sound?
> "There are definitely influences from bands like Opeth, Gojira, The Ocean and Mastodon, but we don't sit down trying to sound like anyone. We're also inspired by movie soundtracks and artists who know how to build tension and atmosphere. We like songs that take the listener on a journey instead of showing everything in the first minute."
## The Songwriting Process
Q: How does the songwriting process work within Octohawk? Do songs start with riffs, melodies, lyrics, or something else?
> "Most of the time it starts with a riff or a musical idea. Then everyone adds their own touch, and the song slowly grows into something bigger. The lyrics usually come later, once the mood of the music is there. We don't force anything. If an idea doesn't feel right, we keep working until it does."
## Recording “Samsara”
Q: What were the biggest challenges and highlights during the recording of ‘Samsara’?
> "The biggest challenge was probably knowing when to stop. Progressive music can easily become overcomplicated, so we tried to keep the focus on the feeling of the song instead of adding parts just because we could. Hearing the final mix for the first time was definitely a highlight. That's when we felt the song had become what we'd imagined from the beginning."
## What's Next For Octohawk?
Q: What can fans expect from Octohawk in the coming months? Are there more singles, an EP, or a full album in the works?
> "There's definitely more music coming. We've got new material in different stages, and we're excited to keep releasing songs. Hopefully people won't have to wait too long for the next chapter."
## Dream Festival Lineup
Q: If you could share the stage with any three bands in the world, who would they be and why?
> "Tool would be an obvious choice because they've inspired so many bands while still sounding completely unique. Gojira, because they're one of the best live bands in metal today and bring an incredible amount of energy. And Opeth, because they've always shown that heavy music can also be beautiful, dynamic and emotional. That would be one hell of a night."
## Metal Madness Weekly Verdict
With Samsara, Octohawk demonstrates exactly why progressive metal remains one of the most exciting genres in modern heavy music. Their ability to combine crushing riffs, cinematic atmosphere, and philosophical themes creates a sound that feels both ambitious and accessible.
Fans of Opeth, Gojira, The Ocean, Mastodon and Tool should definitely keep Octohawk on their radar. If Samsara is any indication of what lies ahead, the Norwegian band is only getting started.
Follow Octohawk and stay tuned for more music in the near future.
Interview conducted by Tomi Perrakoski / Metal Madness Weekly.
