Below is a chat with Milad Tangshir (guitar)
How long has the band been in existence?
We’ve been around since late 2001, and like many bands, after a year or so we found our main path.
How has the response been from your latest album “All In Blood With You”?
There have been only feedbacks from aboard. We couldn’t release it inside Iran, so there were almost no
responses from inside Iran. But I have to tell you that some of the foreign reviews have been really great
and hopeful. Till now there have been 15 reviews upon “All in Blood with You” and they’re still coming. In
our case the political situation has been an interesting subject for the media, but also music-wise, there’
ve been some real aspects. Personally I’m happy about the responses.
When in your life did you get exposed to metal?
I guess it was within the high school days when I first got involved with Sabbath stuff.
Being that you live in a country with Islamic laws, is it difficult
to rehearse or record?
Yes indeed. There’re not lots of proper studios. And if so, they’re not capable to do a metal album, both
technically and legally. Rehearsing also could be such a drag! It could lead to several problems.
What sort of trouble would you be in if you were discovered by the authorities?
What would be the penalty?
I really don’t know exactly! They could seize your instruments…or even they’d arrest you in cases like
underground gigs or gatherings.
Are other things such as horror movies banned in Iran?
No. there’s no certain genre of film banned here. But censorship deals with everything and every genre!
There is no freedom of speech. They do not tolerate this. And it involves everything; Such as art, press, life…
Do you think AHOORA will ever go on tour?
I don’t know when it could be possible. But we want to immigrate, work hard and try to be able to tour. I know it
seems too dreamy, but nothing is impossible. And who knows maybe someday Ahoora kicks off its tour!
What are some of your personal favorite bands?
There’re lots of them. But to mention a few, I could name; Iced Earth, Black Sabbath, Nevermore, Coroner,
Death, Pink Floyd, Porcupine Tree, Riverside…
Where do you draw inspiration from when writing lyrics?
The music itself and my personal life. It could be a reflection of a feeling, or a scène, or just a story.
What things do you like to do in your spare time?
Movies, Games and new music!
What does the future hold for AHOORA?
I really don’t know man! I hope it holds peace and all the great things! I hope we manage this immigration thing,
so we could open doors to new real chances. And that’s when you can look forward to the future.
Interview by Renée Maxwell June 2008