Huntress is one of the leading exponents of the whole current occult rock and metal movement. They recently released Starbound Beast, their latest album. Ghost Cult caught up with the ever charming singer Jill Janus to discuss the new album, being on the road and their steady march on the proverbial metal ladder..
Hi there, thank you for doing this interview. Huntress is currently on tour in Europe. How are things going so far?
We just stepped off stage at Sweden Rock Festival, it was an honor to be part of such a killer line-up — KISS is playing tonight, it’s unreal. We’re jetlagged and a bit overwhelmed with touring expenses, but opportunities like Sweden Rock are a cosmic high five from the universe. Huntress understands it’s going to be a long haul and that’s part of the adventure.
Lemmy from Motorhead co-wrote one of the songs on the new album. How was it to work with him and how does it feel to his blessing in a way?
Lemmy has raised our credibility, I’d be a snob to deny that. He’s generous and quite psychic, he tapped into my persona and wrote lyrics that completely blew my mind. I mean, the Godfather of Heavy Metal handed me two sheets of notebook paper with lyrics to a song called ‘I Want to Fuck You to Death’…my first reaction was that this is the most romantic song of all time. I’m not his type, but damn that boy knows how to charm a girl!
While writing and recording the album what were you guys striving for/set out to achieve?
We all had the same vision, this is the only way we could take on a second album within one year of releasing our debut. We all agreed to focus on songwriting and recording Starbound Beast within a very limited window of time. Having Zeuss as producer was the only way it could be accomplished without sacrificing our integrity.
Huntress draws heavily from (classic) metal, which is a tried and tested formula. How do you try to give that style your own spin?
We stay true to the roots of heavy metal always, while keeping our sound modern and crushing. We ain’t a throwback band, we understand technology. I’m not looking to replicate anyone. Huntress is unique and will remain this way.
There’s seems to be quite a revival going on as far as occult rock and metal is going. Do you feel Huntress is a part of that movement? What are your thoughts on this?
I don’t feel part of any movement, but I know humanity is on the verge of a profound shift. Exciting times indeed.
Occultism is an important source of inspiration. What do you find so enthralling about the subject and where does it stem from?
I’ve always been guided by witchcraft and Paganism. I’ve known of the secret sight since birth and this was encouraged by my eccentric family. My inspiration is pure and organic, never forced. It thrives all around me.
Huntress will also be a part of the Mayhem festival tour package. What are your expectations?
Besides the extreme costs, which are customary with a massive festival, we are expecting Mayhem Fest to be an incredible learning experience. You see, Huntress is not claiming to be an established act, we are five focused, talented musicians who have gained an incredible amount of media exposure, yet understand it will be a painful climb to the top — which is where we’d like to be seated, among the legendary heavy metal bands. Mayhem is another nod from the universe that Huntress is on the right path, but we have many years ahead of us to establish longevity. The hard work never ends.
You had quite a rough and unconventional upbringing. How did it shape you as a person and how to deal with the rigours of being in a band?
My work ethic is insane. Mostly because I was raised to be self-reliant and not depend on others. I’m learning now that I do need others to help lift me to next level, I can’t walk this journey alone. I need my band, I need my fans, record label, management, and booking agents. I had to shed a little ego to gain a little more victory. I’ve always known my purpose, and I truly feel like it is my time at last.
The metal world is a very male orientated world and some males can be outright hostile to anything female in a band setting. How do you cope with that?
I am quite content to exist in a male dominated world. There will always be misconceptions about Huntress and that is fine. I’m not here to change the world. I am here to wail.
Finally, besides a lot of touring, what does the future hold for the band?
More bong rips. I miss California weed!
Raymond Westland