Each band has it's past, present and, most likely, future. That's why
these three words in regards to RAVENS OVER GOMORRAH was the first thing I decided to discuss with Darin (the guitarist)... "RAVENS OVER GOMORRAH was started by guitarist / narrator Darin Winn (ex-NOCTUARY) and drummer Bart Schimdt (ex-SUMMONED) in late 1997. The intent was to compose music in ways others have not yet experimented in. Many songs were written, but only a hand full were kept to represent the sound that was desired. Mike Wortham joined shortly there after, performing vocals in a manner that well suited RAVENS OVER GOMORRAH. In the late summer of 1997, R.o.G. was ready to record. With Robert Nesslieu (RITUAL, CASKET OF DREAMS) performing keyboards, “Blasphemous Hymns, Nighttime Serenades”, was recorded in the winter of 1997. Presently, R.o.G. will be on some compilations and releasing a second album. The new compositions are more exotic and there is use of more real instruments, rather than artificial electric sounds. There is some label interest, but whether or not the next album will under a label has not been determined. R.o.G. will continue to compose and perform at underground shows as the future progresses. The compositions will continue to be experimental". "Blasphemous Hymns, Nighttime Serenades" was a title for the tape I once found in my mailbox... rather impressive one, I must admit. So let's talk about this album (as well as the title behind it) a bit... I hope, Darin wouldn't mind? No, he wouldn't. "Our albums' titles will always contain the main focus of the songs in musical content. The title, "Blasphemous Hymns, Nighttime Serenades", refers to the artistic interpretation of erotic dreams, dark fantasies and sadistic nightmares. (Blasphemous Hymns= the violent use in verses, Nighttime Serenades= an obscure arrangement and use of musical instruments). Each of the songs on the albums may always contain similar themes".
Such kind of concept implies one more concept, this time - lyrical. "Our music is very bold and dramatic", says Darin. "Therefore, I write the lyrics in a form which is almost like play write. The words are in Shakespearean form, and the use of classical and exotic mythology help dramatize the lyrics". Sounds exciting. Perhaps, he will make us even more intrigued telling few words concerning the upcoming CD…?  "Darkly Melisma", our second album will be out late this summer. It contains seven new songs. An arrangement of different and exotic instruments will be used, it is very experimental".  In my view, young band only gains by participating in various compilations.... Is it the same with RAVENS OVER GOMORRAH? "We are approached by several people putting out compilations featuring bands for free. I don't know how many end up actually doing it, but the only one coming to mind is the "Tribute To The Wolf" compilation coming out soon, (I guess)". Is there anyone out there curious in what does blasphemy mean to this guy? I am, anyway. May we consider it to be an act of rebellion? "Blasphemy is an act destroying everything sacred to mankind. Blasphemy as a rebellion is a term for disgruntled teenagers and Christian-made Satanists. We are neither, we are artists that create to destroy in order to explore our own search for ego". Hmm, you seem to have your own point of view regarding each goddamn thing... which, therefore, only confirms that I wasn't wrong choosing an interlocutor this time. Ok, I wonder if Sodom and Gomorrah (as well as others of that ilk... - Biblical motifs, I mean) have anything to do with Darin's works... "The use of 'Gomorrah' in the band name is in reference to the ideal time for man to live". Oh, do you really think so? This is the sort of topic we could discuss for centuries, I believe. Hence, let's stop it and talk about RITUAL and North American black metal scene. "A small scene does exist, but I believe RITUAL does not anymore. Most bands and individuals that are involved with the scene have been supportive. But still, everyone will talk shit and stab each others backs any chance they get. It is the American way. I do however, suggest that people should check bands like NOCTUARY, MORGION, RISE, POETS OF THE PLAGUE and SADISTIC INTENT. They are all talented bands and are great supporters of all obscure music". Darin has a good taste in music, indeed. Although I wouldn't be so sure about RITUAL. At least, Richard Cee of Wild Rags (the label they're signed to) asserts that everything's quite the contrary. Blah blah blah - and I feel I should shut the fuck up. RAVENS OVER GOMORRAH is the band we deal with at the moment, not RITUAL. And I'm also really tired of anything pertinent to music, so let's better ask Darin something different... For example, what's his opinion on misanthropy: is it insanity or lure?  "Possibly both. Civilization does breed the insane and drive others to it". Let's go further with this non-musical questionnaire if we once started. What about life, death and afterlife? "Life exists, so does death. Afterlife? Who knows?"  No one. But we can always use our imagination, don't we? Furthermore, I wonder if there's any way to make Darin more loquacious? Perhaps, asking him about the essense of love and pleasures of flesh as well as it's carnal and spiritual aspects will get thing going a bit more "in-depth"?...  "The carnal aspects just bring more drama to the lyrics. There is nothing shocking or perverse about them. Of course, it has an irreligious meaning or act to it, but anyone who listens to our music is probably not offended". You know, I live with a girlfriend of mine at the moment and, honestly speaking, this experience often makes me think of woman as a focus and root of all evil... "We do not focus on just women, although it may seem so. The female has been credited throughout mythology with many sexually sinister deeds. Therefore, the subject use was intended to fit the songs. But we focus on everything malevolent and mystical". Christianity always officially rejected fascism or anything connected with totalitarian regimes - and vice versa. But let's display our interest in Darin's opinion: don't he think that fascism and christianity are nothing but Siamese twins? "Both are groups that wish to control everything, just as mindlessly and controlled as they are". Yeah, you still seem to be a man of few words to me, though I can't help it... unfortunately. Therefore, let's just continue this interview (or how else should I call this?). I don't know what about you but it might be interesting to get enlightened about Mr. Winn's view on Darwin and his evolution's theory FOR ME. "It certainly makes sense. But science is still a practicing religion of self judgment. Fact has never been proven". The strongest survives…?  "I believe so. But, I think wisdom, knowledge and luck help a little as well".  I think so too. Especially when it comes to modern society... It has lots of advantages and disadvantages if comparing to the older times... Would you like to name us few? "Our society obviously has many advantages and disadvantages. I, however, believe that was I born centuries late. It would be a great pleasure for my eyes to see to modern society obliterated, and a new renaissance of ideas celebrated".  I'm glad that we have finally found few points we both agree with. Perhaps, there will be one more...? I'm truly curious about Darin's opinion concerning Nitzsche's "perfect man"... "I do enjoy Nietzsche's writings and prose. His perfect man, like Nietzsche, is too idealistic". I believe this is enough for now - don't you think so, our precious reader? So let's wait until Darin will share with us his final words... "RAVENS OVER GOMORRAH appreciates your support. The new album will be completed this summer and we will keep you posted on its release" ... and place here band's email: fenir666@hotmail.com