Denis: We were booking studio time and the producer when Piggy got sick. We were pretty much ready to go and set to record these new songs. Obviously at a certain point we had to put a hold on everything.

I can imagine that the recording process for Katorz was extremely emotional for the band. How did everyone cope with it?

The room was empty. Piggy used to take a lot of space, especially while recording. He used to supervise every aspect of it. It wasn't easy, but we supported each other. The key saying was 'do your best Man!' That's all we can do! It was a sort of therapy.

As for the new album, how would you compare Katorz to the band's previous albums-albeit musically, lyrically, etc.?

It's more pure, more natural. It is from jam sessions so there are definitely specific tones, sounds, references from previous VOIVOD albums. We had no pressure of any kind so the music breathes and flows well. Lyrically, the words are more direct, less poetry and sci-fi stories. I scream about the emergency of the situation regarding the planet. I want people to wake up and do something.

Would you say that "The X-Stream" is a good indication of what the new album is about and sounds like or are there many different sounds and ideas on the album?

The X-stream is a good straight forward rockin'song. The album has a lot of variety from one song to another. It's a good indication but it's still just 1/10 of the album.

When it's all said and done, what does Katorz best represent?

For us, it means surviving a tragedy. The ultimate effort to continue throughout adversity. And much much more.

Something that's on the mind of many Voivod fans is what happens from here? You guys have just released your 14 Th album and during that time saw the untimely passing of your brother in arms and one of the founding members, Denis. Are there any plans to release any other material? Find a new guitarist?

There are 13 other songs from the period of Katorz that we want to release in 2007. Also in 2007 the D-VOD 2 and D-VOD 3 and a documentary about Piggy's life and the making of Katorz. As for a replacement for Piggy, we don't know yet, it's possible but his loss is still fresh in our minds.

Has the band had any thought of going on the road in support of the new album?

No, we won't be touring for Katorz. The only thing we want to do is a tribute show for Piggy with guest guitarists in November

Onto some different subjects-

Outside of the new Voivod tracks, what has been spinning in your CD player? What album(s) are you most looking forward to this year?

Mastodon-Mastodon-Mastodon! Also old stuff from Motorhead, Discharge, and The Ramones. Can't live without them. I only heard a few songs from the new Celtic Frost. I got to hear the whole thing. Hey new Slayer is coming out.

I often refer to the drummer as the "spinal column" of the band and without it you can't operate. How important to you do you believe good drumming is to a band's overall sound and success?

I think a drummer is like the foundation of a building. Everything relies on it.

With so many new bands being thrown together here and there, it's hard to keep track of everything. Are there any drummers from 'newer' bands that you think have the potential to make an impact on the music world?

Mastodon drummer. Strapping Young Lad drummer.

Finally, is there anything that you would like to say or express to the fans that have continuously devoted themselves to Voivod?

I would like to thank all the people who gave and expressed condolence messages to us when Piggy passed away. For band members… fan support is everything!

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