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Aki Cederberg, 2000 - 2001, Part 1 - 4. 1. Let's start from the beginning. What's your background? How did you become involved in the type of music you are doing now? Could you give us a description of how Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio has evolved, from its beginnings to its present form? I have as far as I
can remember always had an intrinsic affinity for the allegedly unconventional;
anxiously insinuated to me by various agitated persons throughout my child
and adulthood surroundings; whether the affinity was affiliated to my
individual operations or the preferences of my very being. My initial musical endeavors commenced in 1989 by way of an industrial percussion project which likewise incorporated Fredrik Bergström of No Festival of Light, Mikael Stavöstrand of Inanna and two additional friends of ours, Mattias Lindgren a.k.a. Micro Man & Joakim Gustafsson. This venture completed itself approximately one year later and hence resolved in the rise and ruin of Archon Satani in 1991. Following the ruin of Archon Satani in May of 1993 I pursued my aesthetic endeavors through the founding of Ordo Equilibrio which still remains intact to this very day through the essence of Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio. Change is indispensably the inevitable resolution of progress, and consequently I believe there is noticeable evolution throughout Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio, past, present & future. 'Reaping the fallen, The first harvest' was an entanglement of ideas and creativity which befell as an introductory attempt of induction - an ambiguous opus of massive profundity and ambiance; impregnated with the accompaniment of acoustic guitars. 'The Triumph of Light.... and Thy Thirteen Shadows of Love' was it's undivided successor; it's concerted continuation and advancement; leading deeper into an akin well of dismal ambiance and acoustic impregnation, but undoubtedly refined. 'Conquest, Love & Self Perseverance' was conclusively the spawning where progression & refinement is most apparent. Ultimately being able to realize a greater quantity of my individual yearnings and creativity, it resolved as the most impeccable accomplishment of ORE thus far; as a balanced fusion of all previously comprised elements more perfectly converged. *Make Love, And War' is technically superior and lyrically preferred to any of its predecessors. More melodic, more rhythmic and perchance more 'folk' oriented in comparison, but nonetheless possible to collate under the distinct and stainless banner of ORE. All works have their particular and individual highlights, but all told I believe 'Make Love, And War' is the absolutely most interesting, distinctive and complete of the four. 2. There's been some changes happening in ORE recently, right? You altered the name of Ordo Equilibrio ("Order of Balance") to Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio ("Order of Roses and Balance")- what does the new name signify? As roses always have been intimately embodied throughout the symbolical, literal and aesthetic essence of Ordo Equilibrio, I merely decided to extend Ordo Equilibrio into Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio / The Order of Roses & Balance; as to signify the wedlock between equilibrium & roses. 3. Chelsea Krook, your longtime female companion in ORE, is no longer involved. What were the reasons for her resignation? Do you perhaps have someone else to take her role as the feminine element in ORE? Chelsea resigned her participation by reason of various personal disparities, but as the intrinsic essence of Ordo Equilibrio is I, and I still withstand, I sincerely doubt that Chelsea's departure has or will affect ORE in any conspicuous or substantial way, past, present and/or future. The female essence of ORE has however been restored; a wedlock between roses & equilibrium occurred - hence resolving in the perfection of a synthesis, making two become one, giving rise to - 'Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio / The Order of Roses & Balance' 4. Tell us about the forthcoming ORE CD "Make Love and War". How will this differ from earlier releases? According to my knowledge you also have a video release in the works, which you have done in collaboration with the video artist Fetish 23. Could you give us a preview? As previously stated I can merely say that *Make Love, And War / The Wedlock of Roses' is technically superior and lyrically preferred to any of its predecessors. More melodic, more rhythmic and perchance more 'folk' oriented in comparison, but nonetheless possible to collate under the distinct and stainless banner of ORE. 5. I personally see your work with ORE as being related to groups like NON, meaning in terms of ideas and concepts, more so than in terms of music. You have similar ideas about reaching a balance, about bringing together extremes and opposites- sex and violence, creation and destruction, love and hate, dark and light, the beginning and the end. You also have an interest in war, and a fascination with blood. Correct? Could you elaborate on these and other concepts behind ORE? I believe the concept of Equilibrium is situated somewhere on the illusive periphery of conjectural extremes; either abstraction being incapable of existing and withstanding without the polarity of the other, and hence I am personally intrigued by abstracts such as Love & Hate, War & Peace, Light & Dark, Woman & Man, Male & Female, Life & Death etc., etc; in attempt to obliterate their conceptual opposition and make the two become one. 6. Quote from the
track "Let's Celebrate the Exploration of the Human I am familiar with the works of Anton Zandor LaVey and I suppose the concerned quote could be likened to that of a similar statement in the 'Satanic Bible'. I enjoy the concept of Satanism and what the notion embodies, but Satanist is however not a description I would willingly use to describe myself as I believe I am beyond the confinement of being categorized as being part of one particular group, and consequently a predetermined set of ideological & philosophical sentiments. I am not hence not predisposed to categorize me or any of my inherent understandings and convictions as Satanic, considering this solely would satiate peoples' assumptions and their invariable need to categorize in order to appreciate, acquit, condemn and/or conceivable comprehend. And if any of my understandings make me Satanist, Fascist, Anarchist, Communist, Jewish, Liberal, anti-Semite or National Socialist according to your or anyone else's opinion, so let that be your judgement; it is not very important. It is merely regretful that people are so rabidly compelled to categorize any sort of forthright conceptions merely to please their premeditated assumptions and conceivably appreciate. I appreciate The Church of Satan, the establishment itself and the conceptions it implicates, and the disposition it symbolizes, but I am however not a member. 7. Ritual is an element often present in ORE. What role does ritual and esoteric practices play in your life? I am intrigued by ritual and the application of esoteric practices, but I do not frequently engage myself in magical workings beyond the context of applying ritual practices throughout my sexual and musical advancements. 8. As sex and lust are a central thing in ORE, I´d like to ask you about that. Are you into "alternative" sexuality for the sake of itself, or as a way of self-discovery and liberation from societal constraints? I am not by any means
interested or engaged in 'alternative' sexuality and conduct merely for
the sake of it being allegedly alternative. Sexuality however evolves as we embark to realize our intrinsic desires and fantasies; diversifying the boundary of right and wrong, chaste and depraved, amoral and noble - giving rise to new and evolved desires and fantasies. My sexuality and individual preferences were nothing I choose, merely something I decided to pursue. 9. What excites you sexually? Fetishes? Are you into homosexuality? I believe this question has already been answered as far as eventual fetishes are concerned, but I suppose I could emphasize the sexual signification/appreciation of stockings, high heels, garters and corsets as part of my sexuality once more. As far as homosexuality
is concerned I suppose it is justified to say that I fully advocate and
embrace any form of consensus sex, and that I have explored my personal
preferences in various ways. 10. You are into SM / B&D, right? Do you think that part of its appeal lies in its stance of being a "forbidden fruit", and that perhaps it becoming more and more mainstream and trendy in recent years might lessen some of its former appeal? Or is it a valid sexual practice whether or not accepted by mainstream society? Sadomasochism alongside Bondage & Domination are naturally valid sexual practices despite any form of sociopolitical consensus, and the liable situation why S/M, B&D, Fetishism as well as Homosexuality to certain extent have become more mainstream and contemporarily fashionable is by reason of people having shed their sexual prohibitions and hence started to investigate and extend the rights and wrongs of their sexuality and sexual boundaries - that is fashionable as well as commendable. The taste of the forbidden fruit is naturally much more luscious and appealing. But is this situation truly significant for them who indeed have realized their individual affectation and the formerly veiled but yet intrinsic essence of their sexual nature? I believe not. The eventual forfeiture of former appeal is merely a dilemma for them who do not know and yet are searching. 11. The symbol that appears on many of your releases is taken from the Tarot deck designed by Aleister Crowley and Frieda Harris, and is titled "Completion". Explain the significance of this particular image. Are you inspired by Crowley and his works? I for one feel that his life and poetry is far more interesting and inspiring than his Thelemic Magickal system. I decided to utilize
the '4 of wands' as part of ORE as to manifest Balance - The inner circle
of eight flames signifying the flames of energy in play, asserting balance
and uniting Completion & Limitation through the seeds of disorder. Aliester Crowley was
indeed an interesting and truly inspiring character. Forged by his childhood
he commenced to become what he himself referred to as the Great Beast,
and individual who indeed succeeded in realizing plenty of his individual
desires and aspiration; a conduct I truly venerate and endorse. The motives for utilizing
Algiz as part of I4I are several. 13. On MZ.412's CD "Nordik Battle Signs" you contributed vocals for one track "Algiz - Konvergence of Life and Death". How did this collaboration come about? Collaborations such as these customarily emerge out of friendship, and such is likewise the situation of this alliance. Being friends and further appreciating each other's respective accomplishments resolved in the situation of Henrik Björkk and I deciding to pursue the possibility of a initial collaboration between MZ.412 and Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio, and which apparently resolved in the descent of 'Algiz - Konvergence of Life & Death'. 14. Could you mention some music, literature and films you find enjoyable or inspiring? I understand you are, for instance, into music from the 60´s, and Country & Western... I suppose various
forms of aesthetic accomplishments have inspired my past, present and
future. I very much enjoy the accomplishments of Marc Almond whom I certainly
believe is deserving of plenty more recognition and appreciation, as well
as Johnny Cash whom I believe is a splendid artist whose accomplishments
shall recognized and remembered. 15. Give us one of your favorite quotes. It seems like quoting
Boyd Rice, but I suppose we all know better. 16. On the sleeve of "The Triumph of Light... and Thy Thirteen Shadows of Love" you thank the Ordo Sinistra Vivendi, one of the primary orders advocating 'European Satanism' (now defunct). Are you into their ideas, or affiliated with any such order? Do you share their belief in a next step of human evolution; of Homo Sapiens to Homo Galactica? Paraphrases of an OSV manuscript. "The OSV is an
esoteric warrior Order embracing both the Left Hand and Right Hand paths
within the context of what it terms The Sinister Way. I support the notion of Homo Galctica and indeed consider Ordo Sinistra Vivendi to be the bearer of a truly commendable ideology that I approve both intellectually and spiritually - a philosophy that is intrinsically akin to that which I personally advocate and endeavor through the operations of Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio. 17. In an interview you mentioned that you watch a videotape of selected pornographic sequences before performing live. Could you tell me about that? This is likely a misunderstanding
or possibly a translation error. 18. Are you into drugs? Am I into drugs? I smoke, so I suppose I am. I believe there are more than one way of using drugs; one is to use them, another to abuse them, and I certainly believe drugs are capable of serving as elements of both practicality and entertainment. We are all certainly aware of the hazards, and consequently we are all personally responsible for ourselves and our own individual progress and/or decline utilizing them. I utilize drugs infrequently in order to effectuate a desired purpose, may it be sexual, magical or merely practical. Part 2. 19. On your live performances, you have utilized as a background a video composed of pornographic sequences. Could you tell me about that? In attempt to invoke
a particular atmosphere as part of our concerts, akin to the incarnated
atmosphere and music, I decided to utilize a backdrop video of selected
pornographic sequences as part of our performance. 20. And as we are on the subject, could you tell us about the ORE video release you have planned in collaboration with the artist Fetish 23? What can I say about
the impending video? Some words about Fetish
23. 21. Last summer you performed live with ORE in various countries in Europe- how did it go? How well do you think the audience understands what you are doing? I believe saying that
we performed in various countries throughout Europe would be to exaggerate;
we merely performed in Belgium at the EuroRock festival and were supposed
to have performed in Leipzig at the Wave Gotik Treffen. It is however difficult,
seemingly impossible to ascertain whether or not anyone understands what
we are truly trying to say and manifest. 22. Have you experienced any problems because of your so-called "controversial" (or as some perceive and are quick to allege as "fascistic") views? Simply the fact that you are using a rune in your imagery might offend somebody these days. Groups like Death In June and Blood Axis, for example, have had shows cancelled because of problems their supposedly "dangerous" opinions have caused some people. I have not yet had
to suffer the consequences of any such incidents. Although the situation
is Sweden is worsening by reason of the increasing number of frenzied
and prejudice political activists, I do not apprehend its escalation or
resolution. I have heard rumors from various individuals and organizers pertaining to the contemporary political situation in Germany and the eventual consequence it could engender having Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio performing in Germany; and remarks of resulting suspense. But whether the concerned situation in fact will affect us at our next visit to Germany yet remains to be discovered. I strongly doubt that it will. 23. On the "I4I" 7 inch you have used the Algiz rune. What does the rune mean to you? The motives for utilizing Algiz as part of I4I are several. Foremost it was employed as to signify Life & Victory, but another more indirect significance was attempted in War by means of implying the opposite of Peace through symbolizing Algiz as the Peace sign reverted, it was intended to imply nature's quest for balance through the bearing of conflict - 'Nature seeking Equilibrium / War for the Principle of Balance, OE I4I' - See signs of Peace revert to Life, See Victory prevail. 'My Felicity of Midwinter, ORE Make Love, And War'. 24. ... Could you elaborate further this. Algiz is a personally significant rune of numerous interpretations - of Life, Death, Victory, the Yggdrasil, convergence and divergence, protection and of inner strength; a rune which I have tattooed between my bellybutton and my penis. A significant rune incorporated as part of I4I as a symbol of all interpretations specified above. 25. On MZ.412's CD "Nordik Battle Signs" you contributed vocals for one track "Algiz - Konvergence of Life and Death". How did this collaboration come about? Collaborations such as these customarily emerge out of friendship, and such is likewise the situation of this alliance. Being friends and further appreciating each other's respective accomplishments resolved in the situation of Henrik Björkk and I deciding to pursue the possibility of a initial collaboration between MZ.412 and Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio, and which apparently resolved in the descent of 'Algiz - Konvergence of Life & Death'. 26. Any other such collaborations we might look forward to? Its not entirely inconceivable
that there will be additional collaborations as we proceed further into
the future, but I do not feel the impending need to collaborate with anyone
particular at all; I believe something as such befalls without unnecessary
preparation and motive. 27. You have also mentioned that you have found some civilizations and cultures particularly inspiring. Could you mention which and for what reasons? I suppose I find particular parts of our past as well as particular civilizations more inspiring in comparison to others. I am indeed interested in northern mythology and our cultural past; the symbolism and signification of the runes, and the sociopolitical history of the north European region in relation to out cultural heritage and the importance it has had in affiliation to our cultural, sociological and political past, present and future. I believe the 1920's - 30's and 40's are quite inspiring by reason of its incorporated elegance, gala and glamour, alongside the German military aesthetics of WWII and the essence of cabaret and Marlene Dietrich. I likewise consider the Roman Empire interesting from several perspectives, but particularly by reason of its particular preferences for entertainment, as who can dispute the entertainment value of the Coliseum and the Circus Maximus. But I get a rather misanthropic feeling from your albums, a feeling that you really don't have much hope or concern for humankind as such (for example the song 'Man Always Forgets'). Does your notion of Homo Galactica refer merely to a more highly evolved individual; or do you think that Homo Galactica is actually possible on some collective level, that man might overcome his seemingly inherent capacity for self-destruction and the inevitable problems and fucked-up state of things resulting from this? My understandings of the world is that our civilization's destiny is that of impending ruin; its no longer a question if, merely when. There is an epidemic situation of intellectual and spiritual decay permeating the world making the possibility of improvement and salvation seemingly impossible. Mankind's spiritual deficiency has caused humanity to engage itself in a quest for peace and spiritual fulfillment through the utilization of materialism, which consequently has rendered a situation of terrestrial exploitation for the sake of short term monitory motives. The mass is ignorant
and evolutionary barren. It is soulless and intellectually numb; susceptible
to any sort of propaganda and promises pledging to bear salvage to its
spiritual and emotional deficiency. One man is a hunter,
several establish an army. I have no confidence
in the leaders of today and tomorrow. And I have no confidence in the
betterment of mankind. I believe we bear witness to a theatre where the
blind and leading the blind. Part 3. 28. Do you consider yourself more a sadist or a masochist? Despite its contradiction I am capable of comprehending with both situations; I am neither, whilst being both. The situation is such that I have not yet had to face the requirement of resolving which side is intrinsically me, but more appropriately effectuating the gratification of both, relative to each individual situation and setting. 29. Now that you no longer use pornographic sequences as a background when you perform live, what new ideas do you have to create the suitable aesthetic for an ORE performance? It is not that we
don't utilize pornographic video sequences and imagery when we perform,
but more appropriately that we have decided not employ the very same pornographic
video sequences as we use to any more. 30. When I saw you perform live in Sweden you had tied a topless woman, Jacqueline, on a pole on the center of the stage; and you have also her along with you and Chelsea on a photo on the sleeve for "Love, Conquest...". What is the role of Jacqueline in ORE? I asked Jacqueline
via email prior to her and her husband Ares's visit to Sweden in November
1998 whether she wanted to assist ORE on stage in relation to our performance
with Blood Axis, which she willingly accepted. Part 4. 31. I read a quite positive review of "Make Love, And War" in, of all places, Terrorizer (an English mainstream metal magazine). Aside from that, how has the new CD been received? I had no idea Terrorizer
either appreciated or reviewed Make Love, And War; The Wedlock of Roses;
that's news to me indeed, especially as they weren't too appreciative
of Conquest, Love & Self Perseverance which seemed to please everyone
else. But regardless of what the contemporary situation may appear to be, we'll just have to wait and see what the future holds and whether Make Love, And War, the Wedlock of Roses and the even more recent Make Love, And War; The Wedlock of Equilibrium are the rising of a new and sparkling dawn, or possibly the setting of a formerly glistening star once shining brightly. 32. Marquis de Sade has been an influence on Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio. How did you discover his writings, and in what way has he inspired you? I sincerely wonder
to which extent I have ever exclaimed that Marquis de Sade has influenced
the works and operations of ORE beyond the juncture of being an indirect
catalyst by virtue of spiritually and intellectually materializing the
concept of Sadism, but which is likewise the situation with Sacher Maso
through his materialization of the concept and essence of masochism. Although I had always sensed the affection for fetishism and sadomasochism surging within my body for as long as I can recall the existence of any inherent sexuality, I did not acknowledge my requirement to utilize these desires until first encountered the practical workings of the fetishistic, sadomasochism community back in 1992/93. From there they have since evolved, my fetish affinities and my sadomasochistic engagements, to become a familiar constituent throughout my natural surroundings, intrinsically and inadvertently affecting everything that incarnates propensities of sexuality. 33. There is often violence present in your lyrics and imagery. How does this aspect of Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio relate to your life? Are you a violent person? When conversation has lost its meaning and words are no longer enough, I certainly believe violence is an underestimated resolution to conflicts. So am I a violent
person? Not especially, to say the least. |