All Hails, Lauren!
Citadelians! We present to you one of the first Valkyries to grace the formidable halls of the Heavy Metal Citadel. Known as Lauren, but more famously as Loronskii, she embodies the essence of a true metal aficionado. Her journey into the depths of Metal began at a young age, and she quickly immersed herself in the dark arts, forging a taste that is both unique and diverse. Engaging in conversation with Loronskii, it became apparent that she is a Valkyrie who proudly carries the black flag of metal and wholeheartedly supports the underground. But don't just take our word for it—delve into her words and witness the passion that burns within her soul.
Introduce yourself to our readers, Valkyrie
Hello, my name is Lauren Stokes; some people like to call me Loronskii, ha! I was born and bred in England, Shropshire and I've lived in a town called Telford all of my 20 years on Earth so far. I'm found on Instagram @loronskii and always welcome for a chat.
Does your hometown have a active metal scene?
No, not really. Which is an utter shame because it used to thrive back In the day from what I've been told. A lot of the metal pubs have now since been demolished, and there isn't enough money/demand for small gigs and shows anymore… you know what's to blame for that? COVID-19!! Before COVID-19, around age 14-15, I used to catch the bus and have a good ol' head bang down the pub called the Hole In the Wall in Shrewsbury; that was when the scene was thriving thanks to Born To Lose Productions.
What was your first Metal album?
I've had a very back-to-front introduction to Metal, let's put it. My very first Metal album/albums I remember was from my dad's band, Cancer and his discography, especially his debut album To The Glory End. This was what I was used to and all I’d ever known. The cover means a lot to me personally, and it really set me on the path from a young age to discover more OSDM.
Could you share some of your favourite sub-genres of Metal, and why you enjoy them?
Yes, I can gladly. There are too many to choose from, but I absolutely love atmospheric black metal, especially lyrical themes of pagan, viking, and folk. I love melodic death metal, blackened death metal, symphonic DM, technical death metal, old-school stuff, depressive BM, and a little bit of prog BM here and there. I have many favourites, its hard to choose from; I've got a proper soft spot for grindcore as well.
Who are your top three favourite metal bands/artists at the moment, and what makes them stand out to you?
At the moment, the bands that stand out to me the most is Blut Aus Nord as it is hauntingly unique, and the disturbing guitars make your skin crawl. It gives me feelings of oceanic movement, which ties into the Lovecraft-inspired aesthetic. I feel this draws you into the deep unknown. Another band is Ultha, I love their blend of raw blackness that also kind of resembles Darkspace. I also love Ulcerate; good death metal great to put on.
As a woman in the metal scene, how do you navigate and overcome any challenges or stereotypes you may encounter?
As a woman in the metal scene, I actually haven't encountered much stereotypical hate, so I consider myself lucky as I know it is a genuine problem with acceptance of female metal enjoyers. I am just excepted as a metalhead, let's say. I think people don't bother me because they know I'm serious and not here for the attention; Metal is my life. It has always been part of me. Sometimes I get the odd nasty sexist comment here and there, but it's been relatively smooth sailing, and I've gained many friends in the metal scene.
Tell us about a memorable live metal performance you attended and what made it special for you
Seeing Judas Priest at Bloodstock open air, absolutely adore Rob Halford and overall had such a fun night and a laugh.
Best vocalist…aaaand go!
Richard Hugh Blackmore.
How do you connect with other metalheads and the metal community?
I normally use my socials like Instagram etc., or generally chat with people at gigs and festivals with a pint and some pub snacks!
Are there any local bands that you would recommend for our heathen readers?
Not necessarily local for all, but some near me are death collector, The Wolf Garden, Slimelord, Cryptic Shift, Fyrdsman, Basement Torture Killings, Venomous Concept, Dark Sky Burial, Absolute Power.
What's your favourite band shirt?
Most likely my Sigh long sleeve Scorn Defeat.
What’s your poison?
In terms of a fizzy drink, I'm obsessed with cherry Coke, ha and I love a good Hobgoblin or a good ale in general.
Finally, Rapid Fire Round. Go!!!
Satanism or Paganism
Paganism.
Slayer or Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath.
Corpse paint or leather jackets?
Corpse paint
Blast beats or guitar solos?
Blast beats.
Metal festival or intimate underground show?
Intimate underground shows.
We at The Citadel want to thank Lauren, aka Loronskii for taking the time to answer our questions, and give us some insight into her favourite bands, and metal experiences. Welcome into the folds of the Valkyries. RIDE INTO THE FRAY!
