LOUDNEZZ November 2013 Issue 1 Volume 1 | Page 37

Do you prefer digital files, or the physical copy? I've got no more space for physical copies, I've got way too many! So now I'm getting more choosy, it has to be really good (and cool artwork!) for me to get the physical copy. Who are some of the artists / bands that you are really liking at the moment? Devin Townsend, Katatonia, Toehider Who haven't you worked with, that you still wish to in the future? The musicians I listened to when I grew up, back in the 70's. Like David Gilmour, Robert Plant, Alice Cooper, Ritchie Blackmore etc. The trailer for "The Theory of Everything" looks amazing. Can you tell us a little bit about the music, story, and the making of the album? Glad you like the trailer. Wow.. there's no way to answer that question in a few lines, I would need three pages for that! I guess you can 'steal' it from the biography? :-) With so many amazing guest musicians, does it get a bit hectic behind the scenes? Indeed it's quite hard to arrange all the guest musicians logistically speaking. But they all come one at the time, so it's never really hectic. Do you think that social media has been a positive influence in your music career? Yes, it has been so far. More and more people get to hear and discover my music. And I'm still selling plenty of copies to the loyal fans. And I love to stay in contact with the fans. and share our thoughts. Will there be any sort of live performances in support of "The Theory of Everything"? No, sorry, Ayreon is not a live project. Any words of advice for someone who is thinking of putting together a progressive rock act? Try to make timeless music, don't follow fashions. Be inspired by other acts, but don't try to copy them. And don't ever expect to earn a living from playing progressive music, or impress the chicks :-) Are you excited for the Doctor Who 50th celebrations? Tom Baker is the man! Jelly baby anyone? :-) “The Theory of Everything” is out now on Inside Out Records. Please visit Arjen online at: http://www.arjenlucassen.com/ - Rob Mallory 37