Konorte return
with Erraietako Itzalak, an album forged in rage, honesty, and defiance.
Blending hardcore and metal, the band embraces raw sound, political conviction,
and unrelenting underground spirit.
1. Erraietako
Itzalak arrives
with raw power and without asking for permission. What did you want to express
with this new record, and how does it differ from your previous work?
We came up with
the title after realizing that almost all of the lyrics are filled with hate.
It wasn't something we planned, but rather something that came naturally. We
think there's a big difference from the previous album, as this album is where
we found the style and sound we were looking for. The lineup change and
experience were also key to this.
2. The
album was recorded between Silent Town Records and Koba Estudio. How did each
place shape the final sound of the record?
Silent Town
Records is our bassist's home studio. We recorded guitars, bass, and vocals
there, while we decided to take the drums and final mastering to Koba Studio to
achieve a more professional sound. This has been a way to save money and, in
turn, give us more time and peace of mind during the recording process.
3. Your
songs feature both Basque and Spanish lyrics. How do you decide which language
fits each track, and what does this mix add to your musical identity?
Our reality is
bilingual, and that's why we decided to do it this way. We feel equally
comfortable writing songs in one language or another.
4. The
album includes collaborations with Unai Baseta (Eje), Iker Horma (ex-Exum), and
Larri (ex-Rise Up). How did these collaborations come about, and what did each
of them bring to the record?
They're all
friends of ours and have been in hardcore, punk, and metal bands from our area.
We wanted our album to have a small contribution from those bands that have
also influenced us in one way or another, or continue to do so.
5. The
artwork was created by Asier Martínez de la Pera, with unique illustrations for
each track. How important is the visual aspect for Konorte, and how do the
images connect with the songs?
Asier is a friend
and artist who has always been willing to help the band with their visual art.
We wanted to emphasize that aspect because we believe that having an image
associated with each song or the group helps the listener better understand
what the band wants to convey.
6. You’ve
released two very different videos: Bakezaleak made with AI,
and Joan zaitez, recorded in your rehearsal garage. What was your vision behind these
contrasting approaches?
The latest videos
were made by our former drummer Urtzi. He's in charge of the videos. With the
Bakezaleak video, we wanted to give it a more modern approach, since it's made
with AI, and with the Joan Zaitez video, we wanted to make it more homemade, mostly
shot on a mobile phone and in a part of the garage where we rehearse.
7. Konorte
has always carried a political and combative spirit in its lyrics. Which themes pushed you the most on Erraietako
Itzalak?
We launched the
Bakezaleak video, where we wanted to clearly denounce NATO, which we consider
the largest terrorist organization. At the same time, we denounce the
imperialism and fascism that is spreading across the planet. We are clear that
we will not stop sending messages against capitalism and the violence it
inflicts on the working class. These are no times to remain silent in the face
of so many bastards. We firmly believe in anti-fascist and anti-imperialist
values.
8. Hardcore
in Durangaldea seems to be thriving. How do you see the current state of the
local scene?
Not only in
Durangaldea, luckily in the Basque Country there are many metal, hardcore, punk
and other styles of bands, there's a great underground scene where we feel very
comfortable.
9. Your
live shows are known for intensity and closeness with the audience. What can people expect from the upcoming
concerts presenting the new album?
Well, we'll keep
giving back wherever we can. As you say, we like being close to the public and
being able to build ties with other bands committed to social causes.
10. Your sound
blends heavy riffs, sharp lyrics, and a furious attitude. What’s your creative
process like—does the music come first, or the words?
Well, we don't
have a specific formula. We start improvising things from a riff in the
rehearsal room, and then it gradually takes shape. Sometimes we have the lyrics
written, and other times we write them after the music. In our case, it can
sometimes be a bit chaotic, but that's also a good thing.
11. You’ve
said Konorte is not music “for everyone,” but for those who still believe rage
can change something. What does that statement mean to you in 2025?
Konorte is a band
committed to our ideals. As our song, Joan Zaitez, says, "we are not for
sale" and "without honesty we are nothing." We don't mind
engaging in political matters if it means closing doors elsewhere. Our band is
not a company, and we're not here to make money. If you like the mix of
hardcore and metal, Konorte could be your band.
12. For people
who haven’t yet listened to Erraietako Itzalak, what three words
would you use to describe it and convince them to check it out?
Honesty, hatred, and resentment.
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