Rock Monsters Romania

On the 24th of September, Metallica announced their return to Europe in a huge tour with Ghost and the new sensation of Norway, Bokassa.

The trio (Jørn Kaarstad – vocals and guitar, Olav Dowkes – drums, Eirik Angård – bass and backing vocals) became popular all over the world in December 2017, when their debut album “Divide & Conquer” was nominated many times for “Best Album of 2017”. Metal Hammer UK also included the album in their Top 100 albums of 2017 and called it one of the best debut album. 

After just a month, Lars Ulrich said in an interview that Bokassa is his “new favorite band” and it was probably time for the whole world to get to know their amazing talent and start listening to their songs.

But what is the secret to their ascension? Are they living the dream? We’ve tried to find out in an interview with Jørn.

RM: “Divide & Conquer” was included in 2017 in Top 100 albums by Metal Hammer UK. What inspired you to release the album?

Jørn: We just wanted to make a rifftastic record that we loved ourselves. And that we did!

RM: What is your favourite song from the album and why?

Jørn: My favourite song from the album changes by the day, but at the moment it’s “Last Night (Was A Real Massacre)”

RM: Lars Ulrich said that Bokassa is his “new favourite band”. What was your reaction when you first heard this?

Jørn: When he said that, I think we all couldn’t believe that this was happening. It was totally unreal and I think that i shouted “What the fuck” when I heard it, because it was so insanely cool.

RM: What was your reaction when you found out that you’ll be touring with Metallica and Ghost around the Europe?

Jørn: First we thought it was a prank, then when we finally understood that it was real, we got drunk and celebrated!

RM: In Romania all the tickets sold out in less than 20 minutes. What are you expecting from this show?

Jørn: That’s really cool! As we have never played such a big venue before we don’t really know what to expect, but I expect it will be really wild, cool and a great show!

RM: Do you have any message for your fans and people who already bought tickets for the WorldWired Tour?

Jørn: We are really eager to play for you guys! And hopefully some of you will come out early to check out the stonerpunk reneagades from Norway!

In our opinion, Bokassa’s ascension won’t stop soon, as more and more people will start listening to their songs after the WorldWired Tour. You just can’t resist headbanging to their songs!