Michael Ghezzo:
Cover and design of your new album look very "conceptional" - what is the idea behind "Pepper's Ghost"?

Arena:
It's not a concept album... we just wanted to take this 'comic strip superhero' theme.... and set it in the Victorian era. The songs all deal with perception... and misconception!

Michael Ghezzo:
How would you describe the development of Arena's music since your first album "Songs from the Lion's Cage"?

Arena:
We have evolved as a band.... but there are always consistencies in our music... things that make Arena identifiable. We try and develop with every album we make... there's no point in making the same album twice. Perhaps we have a more powerful sound now.

Michael Ghezzo:
There were several line-up changes - How does Arena 2005 work together and how is the spirit in the band right now?

Arena:
Well, this line up has lasted the longest.... that must be a good sign...;) It's going well.

Michael Ghezzo:
Can you describe the British Progressive Rock scene? How intense are the links between you and other bands?

Arena:
We tend to be aware of the other bands, as they are with us, but there isn't a great deal of interconnection. I guess we are in touch with Pendragon, IQ, Pallas.. bands from that set.

Michael Ghezzo:
Bands like Dream Theater, Pain Of Salvation or Spock's Beard are quite successful in the moment - What do you expect of the music market and what are the perspectives for Progressive Rock music?

Arena:
Progressive Rock will always be a cult thing... an 'underground'.... but it's still and ever developing scene.... The real trick is to make the band name the important thing.... not the genre.

Michael Ghezzo:
What is it that keeps Arena going and what are your next plans?

Arena:
Belief in what we do keeps us going. More albums.... more tours...