Doomed Confessionary: Andre Drage Haraldsen (Draken)
Photo credits: Frida Roland
Formed in Oslo, Norway by bassist Hallvard Gaardløs (Spidergawd, WIZRD) and drummer Andre Drage Haraldsen, Draken is a rock band with an appetite for reinvention. Becoming a fully-fledged power triumvirate with the addition of guitar virtuoso, Even Hermansen (Bushman’s Revenge, Shining) on guitar, the trio dig on the metals and hard rocks of old, and in doing so channel the inspiration they unearth into something truly unique.
In 2021 they released their self-titled debut album on Swedish label Majestic Mountain Records. In January 2023 they followed up with their sophomore album, »Book Of Black«.
Can you say a few words about your band?
Sure! Draken is a Norwegian hard rock band, with a touch of mystique from the Norwegian mountains and fjords.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
To stay at the worst hotel we’ve probably ever seen while on tour in France. There was no way to stay there sober, so well, we were not exactly sober. That night was rough… but we got out alive!
What can you be most proud of so far?
Definitely the recording of our third album, and the development of the songs going forward. Also we did a hell of a tour with Spidergawd all across Europe.
What was your biggest regret?
To drink Absinthe all night the day before a big important show. NOT a great idea!
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
When we played the very nice venue Gebäude 9 in Cologne the entire show was televised by legendary German rock n roll TV-show Rockpalast. That was a great one!
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
How different the crowds in different countries across Europe are. All are great, but different!
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
High On Fire and Thin Lizzy.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
To keep an open mind to all kinds of music, never give up, and to separate your ideas into different creative boxes.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Carrot cake! And Disney music.
Can you say something more about current music scene in Oslo?
Lots of great jazzcats in Oslo. Also, there’s lots of cool underground metalbands in ice cold hidden basements.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
We are keeping a low profile touring wise in 2025, concentrating on finalizing our third studio album. But some shows in Norway are bound to happen, and other than that… let’s see!
What are your plans for the future as a band?
We are working on our third album, and we are looking forward to sharing it with you all. This will be heavier than ever from us! Expect some sneek peeks sometime in 2025…
How can people best support your band?
Buy physical products, merchandise and recommend us to festivals.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Rock out hard, have a good time and treat each other better.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well