AYREON mastermind Arjen Lucassen recently spoke with Sea Of Tranquility about his new STAR ONE album, Victims Of The Modern Age. An excerpt is available below.

Q: The first album had lyrics and inspiration drawn from fantasy and especially science fiction films. This is a theme you have returned to again this time. What is it about this genre you find so inspirational?

Arjen: "For me it's pure escapism. I don't like this world much and I don't really feel a part of it. Luckily I don't have to be, making my dreams come true has become my profession. Also I've always been very interested in science, and I love turning science fact into science fiction."

Q: If Victims Of The Modern Age was to be hugely successful, would there be a temptation to stick with Star One and release a follow up album next, or do you always need to "move on" after every album?

Arjen: "I always move on, success or no success. I hate repeating myself, or competing with myself. And if I wouldn't put my heart in it, it wouldn't turn out very well I guess and I think people would really notice that."

Q: After Space Metal was released, you released a Star One live CD/DVD. Is there any chance of something similar happening this time?

Arjen: "It is definitely an option, but it will be very hard, expensive and time-consuming to get these 10 musicians together at the same time in the same place for rehearsals and a tour. So I'm not making any promises!"

Go to this location for the complete interview. Click here for BW&BK;'s new interview with Lucassen.