Doomed Confessionary: Chris “Cián” Simon (Caged Wolves)
“Alternative stoner with a doomy afterglow. Howling since 2017.”
The Vienna-based quartet Caged Wolves has firmly established itself in the Austrian stoner rock scene since its inception in 2017. With over twenty live performances, including shows with Cone, Pyramid, and Cadû, they have refined their soundscapes.
Their first full-length LP »A Deserts Tale« is set to be released on November 8th, 2024 via Tape Capitol Music. Get ready to traverse the desert in a journey of self discovery.
With their latest album and more upcoming shows, the wolves from Austria remain an exciting force to be reckoned with live. Don’t miss the chance to step inside the cage and experience the unexpected.
Can you say a few words about your band?
We’re Caged Wolves from Vienna, Austria. We’ve been together since 2017 and play alternative stoner rock with some fuzzed-out heavy doom influences. Our last EP »Act Of Nature Beyond Control« came out back in 2021 with our first full-length LP, »A Deserts Tale«, now being released this year, on November 8th, 2024 via Tape Capitol Music.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Navigating the last few years was a challenge for many bands, including us. Although it never threatened our existence, it tested our ability to stay positive and motivated. Now, after almost 7 years and two released EPs, with the new album on the horizon, we can confidently say we’re here to stay and in it for the long run.
What can you be most proud of so far?
Our new album is definitely what we’re most proud of. We’ve learned a lot from earlier releases and our DIY approach. This time, we knew we needed to elevate our sound, so we recorded live with sound engineer and producer Tom Zwanzger at Stress Studio in Graz, Austria. Capturing the energy of our songs in a live setting was crucial, and we’re really proud of the outcome.
What was your biggest regret?
Luckily, there haven’t been many regrets. We always try to make the most of what’s possible at the time. Going forward, the challenge will be finding time for shows and tours, and not regretting missing certain opportunities. But we trust that doing the best we can when we can will attract the right chances.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
We haven’t played live in a while, so we’re really looking forward to what’s coming. Our album release show in November will be our most ambitious yet. Highlights from previous years include headlining the Arena Beisl Open Air in Vienna and our festival debut at Blackdoor Music Festival in Germany.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
While it’s not a surprise since I’ve been part of this scene for a long time, I’m always impressed by the passion of music lovers in our niche. Playing in the heavy underground means less mainstream exposure or radio play, and in a world that often prioritizes polished appearances, it’s refreshing that our scene focuses on the sound and its emotional impact. Fans here take the time to dive into the stories and themes, appreciating concept albums like ours. There’s still a genuine love for discovering new music and supporting bands as they find their voice, and that means a lot to us.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Our musical tastes are quite varied, from punk rock to doom metal. Personally, I’m currently into Night Verses, Kardashev, Cult Of Luna, Birds In Row, Russian Circles, ATW, Elder, Agriculture, EER… We each have our own diverse rotations, which influences our sound.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
“Play for the song, not the instrument.” As a drummer, that means sometimes simplifying a beat or leaving out a fill I might enjoy, focusing on the overall feel and leaving space for other instruments. Jamming with different musicians and styles has taught me when to dial it up or dial it back, sharpening my listening skills and expanding my musical vocabulary. A fun piece of advice from my drum teacher was, “Never complain about carrying your gear!” Embrace the whole process, from setup to breakdown. More recently, I remind myself: be in it for the music, not the business. Keeping the passion and fun alive is key, even when the business side gets tough.
What are your guilty pleasures?
I really enjoy dance battles and some street dance movies – I can’t resist the energy and choreography. I also have a soft spot for a teen drama like “The OC” and the occasional romance or musical – I guess I’m a romantic at heart. A black heart though, gotta keep appearances! 😀 And, of course, indulging in some fast food for comfort now and then really hits the spot. It’s all about enjoying things outside of the usual grind and just having fun with it! A little rest for the brain I suppose.
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Vienna?
Vienna’s underground scene might not be the biggest, but it’s full of passion and dedication. We’ve always tried to contribute by bringing bands to the city and organizing shows. Key venues and organizers like “Roadtrip to Outta Space”, “Dazed And Confused”, and “Echoes Of Erebos” are vital in keeping the scene vibrant. Indie labels like StoneFree Records and Tape Capitol Music are also doing great work in connecting and pushing the local scene forward.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Our main show this year is our album release concert for »A Deserts Tale« at Flex Café in Vienna on November 15th, 2024.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Playing live is our main focus. We’re talking to bookers and venues to organize small tours and festival dates next year to play the new album and some older tracks as much as possible. We aim to connect with new audiences and make lasting connections along the way.
How can people best support your band?
The best way to support us is to listen to and share our new single, »Call Of The Void«, released on August 27th. It’s available on all streaming platforms. If you want to go further, you can preorder our LP »A Deserts Tale« on vinyl via our label site Tape Capitol Music, Bandcamp, or Linktree.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
A big thank you to everyone who supports us, listens, and comes to our shows. We appreciate it and are excited to meet new listeners. The journey is just beginning; the sands are shifting. Trapped in the vast expanse where reality and dreams intertwine – will you walk with us through the desert?
Links:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | YouTube
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well