Avantasia prepares for a night to remember in new performance in Norway.

During a recent interview, Tobias Sammet, the frontman of the German supergroup metal opera project Avantasia, discussed the band’s 10th studio album titled “Here Be Dragons.” Sammet shared that the album title was inspired by the idea of embarking on an adventurous journey into the world of Avantasia, using his imagination to create stories and explore uncharted territories. The phrase “Here Be Dragons” was historically used on maps to signify potential danger, but Sammet saw it as an invitation to embrace the unknown and unexpected in his music.

When asked about the choice of the first single, “Creepshow,” Sammet explained that it was selected for its accessibility and potential for airplay on rock and hard rock radio. Despite the song’s departure from traditional power metal, Sammet welcomed the controversy it stirred among some fans, acknowledging that not everyone would appreciate the track. He emphasized that the goal was not to please everyone but to generate a reaction, as indifference would be the worst outcome.

Sammet expressed his creative process as spontaneous and driven by the desire to enjoy the moment of songwriting without preconceived intentions. He mentioned that each song on the album was crafted with genuine enjoyment and commitment, as he believed that if he did not enjoy the process, he would not pursue it. Reflecting on the recording of “Bring On The Night” with Bob Catley, Sammet recalled the excitement of writing during a football game and the satisfaction of the collaborative process.

Throughout the interview, Sammet highlighted the importance of being true to his creative instincts and allowing the music to guide him. He mentioned that while some critics may act like “nasty bastards” on social media, he remained unfazed by their opinions, viewing them as challenges to his artistic integrity. Sammet concluded by emphasizing the value of following one’s passion and embracing the unpredictable journey of creativity, where one might encounter metaphorical dragons along the way.