Kari Rueslatten is an Norwegian singer and songwriter. Kari has performed with Norwegian viking metal band Storm and Norwegian experimental metal-band The 3rd and the Mortal. Interview March 6, 2014.
– What’s new with Kari Rueslatten?
I have just released a new album, “Time to tell”! That is my first album release in 8 years – feels great!!
– How was it recording “Time to Tell”?
It was a super experience. I worked with producer Jostein Ansnesin at his wonderful Øra studio in Trondheim where I live. We had a long pre-production period in order for him (and the other musicians too) to understand the kind of musical-universe that I heard in my mind when writing the songs.
– How did the song writing process work for the album “Time to Tell”?
This time I wrote all songs on the piano before I went into studio. My idea was that if a song work well with just the voice and the piano as the only instrument, it is a strong song, and it will work with other instruments too. And later, in the recording sessions, all the musicians influenced through their performance on the songs. I have to say that I am most humble and grateful to be able to play with such wonderful musicians as those performing on this album.
– Without social media could bands today manage to survive?
When I left music after my previous album “Other People’s Stories” eight years ago, the internet was looked upon as death of the music industry. Now it has become the musician’s friend in many ways, very much because of social media and the impact it has to enable you to communicate directly with fans. So I think that whether you survive or not – you are wasting a really good way to communicate.
– What would be some of the craziest stuff you’ve seen on road?
It’s been so long now since I’ve been on the road ;-)
– How is the music scene in your area nowadays with the economy?
I think it is the same as most places – it is really difficult to make a living out of making music, it is hardly any money in the music industry for the musicians.
– What would be some of your main influences today?
I am always influenced by great singers and composers, that will never change I think. What really strikes me is that some of the artists that I was into when I was really young still means so much to me. It is something magical about youth and music :-)
– What could we find interesting in your music collection at home?
One interesting finding would probably be that there are no limits at all in terms of genre!! Everything from classical music to metal, to folk via pop and to jazz – I like music that evokes emotions in me, regardless of genre.
– Could you describe what goes on in a day in your life as a musician on tour?
Last Saturday, I had my first concert in 8 years!! It was just fantastic – a sold out show and such a great audience :-)
– Where do you see music going in 100 years from now?
I think it will still be an important part of the life of human beings. Music communicates directly with the heart and soul
More questions with Kari Rueslatten
Life without music would be – different
Favorite movie – The Piano
Favorite sport – mountain biking
Favorite food – sushi
Favorite drink – coffee with milk
Favorite saying – Time to tell!
Favorite book – At the moment: Emily Dickinson’s poetry
CD or Vinyl – Both
Star Wars or Star Trek – Star Wars
PC or Mac – both
Check out Kari Rueslatten online at http://www.karirueslatten.com/