Days of Rona: Leif Herland of Bismarck
The ongoing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the varied responses of publics and governments worldwide, and the disruption to lives and livelihoods has reached a scale that is unprecedented. Whatever the month or the month after or the future itself brings, more than one generation will bear the mark of having lived through this time, and art, artists, and those who provide the support system to help uphold them have all been affected.
In continuing the Days of Rona feature, it remains pivotal to give a varied human perspective on these events and these responses. It is important to remind ourselves that whether someone is devastated or untouched, sick or well, we are all thinking, feeling people with lives we want to live again, whatever renewed shape they might take from this point onward. We all have to embrace a new normal. What will that be and how will we get there?
Thanks to all who participate. To read all the Days of Rona coverage, click here. — JJ Koczan
Days of Rona: Leif Herland of Bismarck (Bergen, Norway)
—
How are you dealing with this crisis as a band? Have you had to rework plans at all? How is everyone’s health so far?
Well, it’s a challenge to release an album right now, that’s for sure. Not being able to play live is weird, and we’ve moved and cancelled all planned shows. Everyone in the band is in good health, and none of us have caught the virus yet.
What are the quarantine/isolation rules where you are?
In Norway it has been quite strict. Now the country is opening up slowly. Bars, restaurants and shops are opening with restrictions. Events are now allowed with up to 50 people as long as they respect the one-meter rule. If you’ve been out of the country and returning you have to be in quarantine for 10 days.
How have you seen the virus affecting the community around you and in music?
People are keeping their distance to each other. The culture business is suffering. Musicians, technicians, event companies and so on are having a hard time surviving due to the restrictions. A lot of people are temporarily laid off too.
What is the one thing you want people to know about your situation, either as a band, or personally, or anything?
We’re healthy, we just released our sophomore album Oneiromancer, and it has been very well received! We’re meeting up and we’re rehearsing, and when things are turning back to normal we’re ready to get on the road and play shows for you! Stay safe and stay doom!
http://www.bismarck.no
http://bismarck.bandcamp.com
http://www.facebook.com/bismarckdoom
http://www.instagram.com/bismarckdoom
