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You would have seen a lot of changes within the music industry. What are the worst changes? And how has it changed for the better?

“It’s been hard in the sense that there is less and less money and we are always having to cut corners. We do so many extra jobs internally now and we have to be careful not to burn ourselves out. I have to accept that even as a solo artist I will not be able to have the lavish music videos I have always dreamt of, but am still willing to make something integral regardless of budget. Some positive changes I have seen in this industry is the fact that having a shit attitude and people treating others poorly is totally out and a thing of the past. That people will not want to work with you if you’re an absolute jerk. Which I guess use to be the normal about 15 years ago and before that. But that’s something that has been kicked to the curb. It’s nice to be able to work with a circle of people who are genuinely hard working and also very positive. I find a bad attitude mixed with a temper is entirely unprofessional and totally counter productive.”

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You guys would have seen so much while being on tour. What are some of the more crazier things that you have seen? And have there been any special moments that stand out in your mind?

“To be honest I have been hiding a lot on this tour getting plans for my first solo album ready while I have been slowly working on the music and lyrics for a second solo album. I haven’t really had the chance to go out either and that is also due to funds being tight. One cool memory was fighting through the solid ice on a cruise liner to Finland the morning we arrived there. Some special moments were performing in Montreal and Toronto to all my family and friends there as well as finally meeting all of the members of my side project Antiqva.”

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If you could collaborate with anyone in the music world, who would you want to work with? Whether in the metal genre or something completely random?

“I have a crazy long “dream list” stashed somewhere of so many people I would love to work with. I know for sure my top two collaborations would be with Jonathan Davis of Korn and also being able to sing a duet with Peter Loifler of Chevelle. The person who I wrote my solo album with, who will be revealed later this year, is actually the person I have wanted to collaborate with more than anyone since I was in my teens and I got the lucky chance of doing so over the last two years. But my crazy bug dream duet that I doubt will ever happen would be with The Weekend.”

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You guys have been around for a long time now. How do you keep coming up with ideas for songs while still keeping them fresh and topical?

“It’s a strange writing dynamic in Cradle of Filth. The music happens and then Dani writes the stories and themes around it.”

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Do you go out and actively seek out new music? And is there any genre that you just can’t get into?

“I do my best to keep track of what new and coming out in the metal world. My true love is early 2000’s alternative and nu metal along with Trip-Hop. Since I’ve discovered Witch House I have really been into the artists that come up on those playlists.” 

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What have been some of your biggest challenges? And how did you overcome them?

“I think my biggest challenge was realizing that no matter how well you treat others they are not going to give you the same respect back. Instead I make sure that I am educated and in control of my emotions and this has helped me confront and stand my ground in these situations.”

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Have you encountered many crazy or strange fans over your time? Anything that you can share with us?

“It’s really strange for me to think that I am someone’s priority or hobby so to say. Just like I obsess over makeup or an anime or movie there is someone out there obsessing over what I do and I find that crazy. But that’s what’s to be expected when you make art and put it out there. Out of respect I don’t want to mention any stories specifically because I feel that it may hurt someone in them feeling like I am calling them out. I do have to say though that some people don’t understand that just because you feel they know the artist through their art means that they actually know the person. Who I am as an artist is nothing like who I am at home. Sure, I’m creative. But I’m also quiet and quite boring when I get down time. If many fans knew me like that they would probably not be comfortable with the fact that I can sit in silence for weeks at a time.”

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What was the best advice that you were given when you first started out? And what advice would you give to someone who was starting out now?

“Two things: “make great music and everything else will follow” and “be humble”. I can honestly say that if you are starting out that there is an art to networking. You have to be so careful because if you’re dishonest and pushy you will do more damage than you will good for your career. Always be honest about your relation to people. NEVER try to use someone’s name to get you ahead or some sort of access you have not earned yet. And also do not push your luck or boundaries when given privileges. For example: do not barge into a band’s change room 10 minutes after they got off of stage when you barely know them. Especially if you plan to bring a brigade of people they band doesn’t even know. Backstage is a privilege that is not to be abused. Ask the band when it’s good to visit and it’s best to only come by yourself. Make your visit quick unless you are invited to stay longer. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen new artists mess this process up and it has lost them potential touring spots or relations.”

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Destroy All Lines and Chugg Entertainment present:

CRADLE OF FILTH

TOUR DATES

Wednesday 9 May – Academy Club, Canberra – 18+

Thursday 10 May – The Triffid, Brisbane – 18+

Friday 11 May – 170 Russell, Melbourne – 18+

Saturday 12 May – Metro Theatre, Sydney – 18+

Monday 14 May – Capitol, Perth – 18+

TICKETS

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AMNPLIFY – DB