INTERVIEW: Alternative Rock from AURORA BY NOON

AURORA BY NOON is an Austrian rock project formed last year by bass player and songwriter Markus Sumereder, who have recently released their debut album, a true masterpiece featuring twelve unforgettable tracks. With their impeccable musicianship and visionary approach, AURORA BY NOON blends classic and modern rock elements, paying homage to the genre’s roots while pushing the boundaries of what rock music can achieve.

Now, the ensemble unveils their latest masterpiece, “Black Crosses in the Sun,” the title track of their new record. This emotionally charged anthem dives into the profound impact of war on individuals and communities, presenting a haunting and thought-provoking narrative that transcends borders.

Drawing inspiration from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, “Black Crosses in the Sun” offers a poignant exploration of the harrowing experiences faced by those caught in the midst of war. As the song unfolds, listeners are immersed in the stark contrast between the abstract concept of war and its devastating reality.

“Black Crosses in the Sun” is destined to win over listeners that appreciate thought-provoking and socially conscious alternative rock music. The song not only showcases AURORA BY NOON’s remarkable songwriting and performance abilities but also highlights their commitment to addressing critical global issues through their art.

With its compelling modern rock anthem structure, brimming with passion and propelled by compelling vocal leads that soar above a driving arrangement of powerful drums and storming guitar tones, “Black Crosses in the Sun” is a catchy and energising song. Yet, it also possesses a profound depth of meaning that moves the listener. It’s impossible not to become fully immersed in this astonishing alternative rock outing and be deeply moved by its powerful context.

AURORA BY NOON has firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the rock music scene, and “Black Crosses in the Sun” further confirms their position as an act who not only create exceptional music but also use their platform to shed light on crucial issues. Keep an eye out for the project as they continue to captivate audiences with their extraordinary talent and socially conscious artistic vision.

We caught up with the mastermind behind AURORA BY NOON Markus Sumereder to find out more about his inspirations, the new AURORA BY NOON single “Black Crosses in the Sun” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Markus Sumereder below.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?

While it’s difficult to choose from the abundance of talented artists today, Porcupine Tree, Biffy Clyro, and Pearl Jam have had a profound impact on my creative process.

Their diverse styles, from atmospheric soundscapes to powerful performances and introspective storytelling, have inspired me to experiment and infuse raw energy into my own compositions.

However, I draw inspiration from a wide range of genres and eras, constantly seeking out new talents to expand my artistic vision.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with musicians who bring their unique individual styles into the songwriting process, which has greatly influenced and shaped my music.

The diverse backgrounds of these collaborators, such as “Adam Hayman”, an American guitarist with roots in modern country music, “Alexandre Emidio”, a Portuguese drummer from the metal scene, and “Björn Mehler”, a phenomenal singer and songwriter from Germany, have not only broadened my musical style but also added new dimensions to the songs.

Their contributions have been instrumental in inspiring and enriching my music, and I credit them for their invaluable influence.

What do you love about the Vienna music scene?

What I appreciate about the music scene in Austria, not limited to Vienna, is the emergence of numerous talented Austrian bands that have gained recognition on an international level in recent years.

However, one aspect that still has untapped potential is the support for independent artists through radio stations, where there is room to provide them with a platform and a voice to reach a broader audience.

Despite this, the vibrancy and talent within the Austrian music scene continue to shine through, showcasing the diverse and captivating artistry of the country’s musicians.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

The perfect setting for listeners to enjoy my sound is subjective and varies from person to person. Each individual has their own unique way of experiencing music, whether it’s in the car, during a workout, or simply wherever they find it most fitting.

I believe that the beauty of music lies in its ability to be enjoyed in diverse settings, allowing listeners to create their own personal connection and immersive experience with the music.

How did you find making your new single “Black Crosses in the Sun”?

Creating the new single “Black Crosses in the Sun” was a thought-provoking experience. The lyrics were deeply influenced by the ongoing devastating events in Ukraine. We aimed to address this subject matter while avoiding any explicit political statements, allowing the song to resonate with listeners on a more emotional and introspective level.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

Actually, “Black Crosses in the Sun” is a fictional narrative that revolves around the concept of a person recalling their childhood experiences of playing war games. However, the story takes a dramatic turn when this individual suddenly finds themselves thrust into the realities of warfare.

The song serves as a poignant reminder of the unsettling and disorienting nature of transitioning from imaginary battles to the harshness of real-life conflicts.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Apart from the many talented yet undiscovered artists out there, I’ve been particularly drawn to the music of Jessica Wolff, a Finnish singer and actor whose captivating sound has made a strong impact on me.

Thanks to Spotify’s algorithm, I’ve also stumbled upon talented acts like “Hollows”, “The Rolling People” or the Austrian Band “Young Nails”, whose music has inspired and influenced my own creative process.

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

The main goal we have in mind when creating our music is to craft captivating melodies that stay with the listeners and lyrics that either tell a story or carry a meaningful message.

However, we want to leave it up to the listeners to interpret and experience our music in their own unique way. We hope that our music resonates with them on a personal level, evoking emotions, sparking inspiration, or simply providing an enjoyable listening experience.

Ultimately, the way people engage with our music is entirely up to them, and we embrace the diverse ways in which it can be appreciated and interpreted.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

One of the most memorable live performances I’ve experienced was Rammstein’s show last year, which left me in awe with their mesmerising stage production and spectacular pyrotechnic effects.

From a musical perspective, concerts by Pearl Jam and Neil Young have also been personal favourites, as their captivating performances and powerful delivery resonated deeply with me.

Each of these live experiences has left a lasting impression, showcasing the incredible artistry and energy that can be found in live music.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

In my dream festival, I would love to have Ghost, Pearl Jam, and Foo Fighters as the main headliners. It would be a dream come true to perform at renowned festivals like Glastonbury, Rock am Ring, or Wacken Festival, where music fans from around the world gather to celebrate the power of live music.

The exact location would ideally be a picturesque outdoor venue, adding to the magical atmosphere of the event.

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

My advice for a new artist aspiring to follow a similar path is to embrace your unique identity and avoid copying other artists. Be authentic and true to yourself, as originality is key in standing out.

Additionally, actively engage with bloggers and utilize social media platforms to connect with your audience and build a strong online presence.

It’s crucial to recognise that the music industry has evolved, and in today’s landscape, releasing music more frequently, such as every 3-4 months, rather than focusing solely on full albums, can help you maintain momentum and keep your listeners engaged.

Adaptation to the changing industry trends is essential for success.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?

For the rest of 2023, my focus will be on growing our fan base and engaging with listeners. I also have an exciting collaboration in the works, where we’ll be releasing a track from a new perspective.

Additionally, I’ll be converting a bunch of demos into new songs, exploring different musical directions. It’s an exciting journey ahead, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.

Listen to Black Crosses in the Sun below