Rock Monsters Romania

The quarantine was a really hard period for bands and artist. We talked to some bands from all over the world to see the real effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in music.

Today we talk to Next Door To Heaven, an amazing band from Russia!

How can you describe the changes generated by the pandemic in the band’s activity?

On the one hand, it’s creativity because of emotions we’ve got during this period of time. On the other hand, it’s a quite depressive period because of everything that’s happening in the music industry now.

What daily activity did you miss the most during quarantine?

Lockdown in Russia lasted about 3 weeks or so. The rest of the time most places were open (except for concert halls etc) but the borders are mostly closed. Most of all we miss playing live, contacting listeners personally, traveling, ability to breath freely and without masks of course.

Were there any pluses for this period without concerts?

I wouldn’t say so. I imagine people that are not good in time management have found more pluses in this situation but I’m not one of them. I’m always very active and able to plan my day very well so I’ve always been able to find a compromise between ordinary life and career.

How does it feel to hear the idea of returning to some normalcy?

Well, as I said, there was no long lockdown in Russia so ordinary activities have been accessible almost all the time. Except for concerts and traveling abroad.
This idea gives hope. I’m not the one saying “let’s leave lockdowns for 5 years”. I love freedom.

What plans have you got for 2021?

It’s very hard to plan anything in 2020 or 2021. Let’s see what happens next and then we’ll be able to tell more.

Do you have any message for the bands or artists who are still in lockdown/quarantine?

Hold on and find something that will let your creativity find it’s way. Do some exercises both musically and physically and try thinking positive. In the end, our thoughts are very important. Remember: it can’t last forever.

What message do you have for the people who are going to read this interview?

Check out our EP “Inside” coming out on March,25. Watch our latest video and a single “Dance with me”. Most importantly, don’t give up!

Interview by Radu Mihai