Currently duo, the Belgian progressive metal outfit Jusska comprise of guitarist Leander Verheyen and singer Iason aris, released their second EP titled Tsuki in January. In the interview for Moshville, the band tells about the band’s name, the EP and more.
What made you go for the name Jusska?
Actually our name first was Jouska. Jouska kind of is a strange word for the never ending conversation you have with yourself in your own head. It prefectly describes me as a person haha.
We searched through the whole interwebs and no other band used that name. But allready 2 weeks after we posted our fist teaser another band called Jouska appeared out of nothing! We were like : DAMN! Instead of making a fuss out of it we just changed some letters and Jusska was born. Maybe the word now is even more curious and uncommon. Which is always ok in my book.
How do you usually describe your music?
8 string groove mayhem cake with epic layered vocals as icing on top. Or just djent with no screams haha.
What is your writing process like?
I make a song here on my little laptop, program some drums and when it’s almost 100% finished I send it over to Iason, our singer. He then pours some vocals on there and sends it back. We keep sending it back to each other with witty remarks until we both are happy with the song.
Who or what is your inspiration, if you have any?
Oomph that’s hard. Not so much metal I would say. Allthough people say you hear some 90’s influences haha. Yup I was a nu metal kid! I mostly listen to music that really compells me emotionally. Flamenco, dark wave, electro, post rock stuff … that kind of things. And that probably gets into my subconsciousness and out my fingers on guitar somehow.
What is your favourite piece on the “Tsuki” EP?
I actually like all 3 songs for different reasons. But maybe Limbo most ‘cause in preprodution it was my least favourite and it came out awesome after recording and mixing. It’s also the most ‘mature’ track I think.
What makes “Tsuki” different?
It has interesting, crushing grooves and dreamy melodies without being overly complex. We strive to keep the song alive. Instead of epic 20 minute rollercoaster rides hehe.
What should music lovers expect from “Tsuki”?
Heavy guitars, compelling melodies, nice production and epic drums by Mr Mike Malyan!
What kind of emotions would you like your audience to feel when they listen to your music?
Uplifting, empowered, … generaly positive feelings. When you hear something for the first time and it sweeps you away and alters or enhances your current state. It would be cool if people can escape for a few moments as the music engulfs their ears.
Which do you like most, life in the studio or on tour?
I enjoy touring more haha. Allthough it’s hard sometimes. Touring for small bands is like backpacking with your band. Bad food, no drinks, no sleep. But on the road you have so much fun and some of my life’s most funny moments happend on tour. Studio is also fun, but it’s more a safe kind of fun haha.
Pick your three favourite albums that you would take on a desert island with you.
1) I am the night by Perturbator to get my electro groove on.
2) Chaosphere by Meshuggah to get my polyrythm groove on
3) Deloused in the comatorium by The Mars Volta to get my musical high on.
