Belle Morte (Vocals/compositions): ’When COVID hit in 2020, it made it so hard to travel and visit other places. That overwhelming sense of isolation inspired us to use music to fix it. We came up with the idea of creating a series of songs in collaboration with musicians from different countries, each featuring at least one ethnic instrument. Through this, we allowed our minds to travel when it was not possible ‘’physically.
‘’The album took four years to complete, because involving so many people without the possibility to gather in the same studio is not an easy task. Despite the challenges, it was an incredibly rewarding and fascinating journey.
Pearl Hunting is the result of a transformative experience that tastes the flavors and traditions of the world’s musicians. An album that is as beautiful as it is powerful and dramatic drawing on the inspirations of indigenous cultures and mythos whilst evolving its symphonic metal heritage. A truly world music record.
‘’Yes! This album is like a musical journey across the world. We were lucky to collaborate with musicians from 12 different countries, each bringing their own unique knowledge.
‘’Our goal was to merge the rich traditions of world music with our symphonic metal roots, creating a fusion that feels both unique and immersive. On top of that, the process was an incredible learning experience. We discovered dozens of fantastic bands and musicians from all over the world and enriched our Spotify playlists :)
The confidence to share your music with so many other musicians?
‘’We relied heavily on the expertise of the musicians we worked with. While writing the songs, we immersed ourselves in regional musical traditions, listened to a lot of local folk bands, and studied how others incorporated these instruments into metal music when examples existed, which was not always the case. However, since we don’t play these instruments ourselves, we knew there were nuances we might not fully grasp.
‘’Whenever we collaborated with guest musicians, we provided some references to show them what we wanted, but we also gave them the freedom to adapt or change their parts if they felt it would sound more organic. Each time, it was a euphoric experience for us: seeing how their knowledge, skills, and personal touch elevated the music. Everyone involved brought their own magic to the record.
‘’Our confidence stemmed from a simple but powerful belief: music is a shared language that transcends boundaries.
Pearl Hunting is proof that music is universal and knows no boundaries?
‘’Absolutely. The album is proof that music transcends all boundaries: whether cultural, geographical, or even personal. That music connects us all, no matter where we come from and what backgrounds we have. It’s a reminder that, despite our differences, we can all come together to create something beautiful.
Part fantastical escape and laced with history?
‘’Compared to our first album, Pearl Hunting feels much more personal, as several songs are inspired by deep personal feelings and experiences. In a way, it could even be seen as a musical diary, capturing moments and emotions in time.
‘’At the same time, the album is more diverse in its storytelling, as some tracks draw inspiration from fairytales and mythological creatures.
A truly diverse collection also includes the subject matter throughout the album?
‘’Lyrically, the songs on Pearl Hunting are not interconnected, not like we had it on our previous album, Crime of Passion, where there was an overarching story. This time, each song stands on its own, representing its own distinct project.
‘’However, we couldn’t resist incorporating a common thread, which in this case was the use of ethnic instruments. These instruments tie the songs together conceptually.
Was it a conscious decision to create such a varied release? Organic evolution or careful design?
‘’It was definitely an organic evolution. Initially, we planned to create a few songs with folk elements. However, as we got deeper into the process, we realized we had enough material for at least an EP. The more we recorded, the more ideas came to life, and the more instruments we wanted to include. Before we knew it, we had the material for a full-length album in our hands.
The balance between the symphonic and traditional instrumentation?
‘’Our primary goal was to honour the authenticity of the ethnic instruments, allowing their unique voices to shine while integrating them into the symphonic metal framework to create a richer, more layered sound. Often, the song itself guided us. In some cases, we chose an instrument and explored what would happen if we built a symphonic arrangement around it. Where would it take us? How could we complement it?
Yet it’s also wildly experimental and unconventional?
‘’Absolutely! We definitely challenged ourselves with this album. While some tracks feature more traditional combinations of symphonic metal and folk influences, like Northern and Celtic sounds, others push the boundaries with more experimental and unconventional fusions. Instruments like the Armenian duduk, Indonesian suling, and gamelan bring a completely unconventional texture to the music. For us, this exploration was incredibly exciting, and we’re eager to see how listeners will react to these unique blends.
The passion of Black Waters and its raging current?
‘’When creating Black Waters, we were drawn to the idea that passion isn’t always a burning flame as it’s often described. To us, passion feels more like deep, dark, and mysterious water, a slow, tender immersion into something that holds an unfathomable depth beneath its surface. It’s warm and inviting, yet it conceals something unknown and potentially dangerous. Surrendering completely to it can be just as consuming and perilous as the fiercest fire. This duality was the core inspiration behind the song.
The addition of vampiric mythology?
‘’Given that our band’s name, Belle Morte, is inspired by a book series cantered around vampires, we’ve always felt drawn to incorporating elements of vampiric mythology into our music. So, when the opportunity arose to create a song around it, Willow, we were excited to bring that dark and mysterious energy into the album.
The twin versions of Exorcism and their dichotomy?
‘’The two versions of Exorcism represent different emotional states and perspectives on the same theme. The original version, with its powerful, symphonic metal energy, embodies the struggle and intensity of trying to rid oneself of inner demons. The piano version, on the other hand, is more introspective and intimate, reflecting the vulnerability that comes with facing those demons. The dichotomy between the two versions highlights the dual nature of human experience: strength and fragility, light and darkness.
Are you always composing? Is it too early to start contemplating the next release?
‘’Yes, we’re always composing. In fact, we already have a vague idea for our next album. Let’s just say that there will be more vampiric mythology in future.
‘’However, for now, our main focus is promoting Pearl Hunting and giving it the attention it truly deserves. We're excited to see how this album will resonate with people before going forward.
Plans to promote Pearl Hunting?
‘’We’re currently working on music videos for Pearl Hunting. But the big focus right now is planning live shows for 2025. We’re thrilled about getting on stage and are looking forward to performing the new material in front of live audiences.
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