In a new interview with RapidMetalFire, former Kreator and current Sodom guitarist Frank “Blackfire” Gosdzik spoke candidly about the band’s current status following the release of their latest album, The Arsonist, and expressed frustration over the lack of live activity.
Sodom’s longtime leader Tom “Angelripper” Such announced earlier this year that the band would be entering a touring hiatus leading up to and following the release of their 17th studio album, which arrived this past summer.
Blackfire did not mince words when discussing the situation: “With Sodom, we released The Arsonist recently — was it July? — and nothing happens with Sodom. It’s a pity. If you bring out a new album, I think you want to go and play live… festivals at least.”
From Blackfire‘s perspective, shelving live activity undermines the impact of the record: “Why bring out a new album and don’t play live? This is kind of a waste of the album, I think.”
While acknowledging that the decision is ultimately out of his control, Blackfire said he has chosen to stay active rather than wait indefinitely. With Sodom sidelined, Blackfire has doubled down on his solo band Frank Blackfire, writing new material and booking shows wherever possible: “I’m working hard right now — trying to get shows, festivals, writing new material for a new album. I hope I can bring it out next year.”
Blackfire‘s comments contrast with statements made by Tom Angelripper in a May interview with Blabbermouth, where Angelripper explained that the hiatus was motivated by health, workload, and the realities of managing the band himself: “My doctor said, ‘You have to slow down. We want to keep you this way.’ I’m still healthy and capable of touring, but now I need more time for other things.”
While acknowledging that fans are disappointed they won’t hear The Arsonist performed live, Angelripper described the decision as difficult but necessary: “I know I will miss the stage. I’ll miss the band. Standing onstage, doing records, rehearsing—it’s something I really enjoy. It’s not only this thing. People just see the band on the stage. They just get a new record and listen.
“They don’t know how much work it takes to get it finished or touring. It’s what a lot of people don’t realize—how much work it is. I work really hard to get it finished. We have to release the master for the record company. We have to release the album. I’m putting everything together. I’m always that guy. I’m also the manager of the band. I’m not the booking agent, but I’m the manager. I think the time will never get boring after that show.””
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