Epic atmospheric soundscapes combined with the sadness that is inherit in the heaviest of Doom subgenres Veil of Conspiracy are an act that that captivates the listener. The stunning new release Shape Of grief is an album that pursues unheralded depths of heaviness and melancholy with the dramatic interplay between the duality of vocalists Carmelo Orlando and Nicola Belotti reflecting the power and turmoil of grief. It is complex, emotional, and profoundly moving reflecting a continual evolution.
Luca Gagnoni (Guitars): The evolution of the band has definitely been a journey (and continues to be). Our new album Shape of Grief is way more cohesive and tightly bound thematically compared to the previous Echoes of Winter, which was more exploratory. While both albums delve into darkness and introspection, Shape of Grief is a bit more focused, drawing on personal experiences and the nuances of grief itself. The progression reflects a maturation of our sound, where we're exploring deeper emotional territories and creating a more refined atmosphere.
How do you describe grief? There are many facets to it, not all tinged with sadness.
‘’Grief is not a simple emotion but a complex web of feelings. It's not just about sadness, it also includes anger, confusion, guilt and sometimes even moments of peace. It’s an evolving process, and each person experiences it differently. Through the album, we wanted to explore how grief can manifest in different ways, with some moments of reflection and others of overwhelming sorrow.
It is very personal, much like your record. Is it up to the listener to interpret the music and emotions within?
‘’ Of course, yes. We want the listeners to interpret our songs through their own lens. The emotions behind the music are universal, even if they come from a very personal place. It's important to us that people can connect with our music on their own terms, using their own experiences to find meanings.
The ability to combine beauty amongst the darkness? Is it a subconscious creation?
‘’The balance of beauty and darkness is something that comes naturally within the process. It's not necessarily conscious but more of a reflection of the emotional and thematic content we're exploring. The contrast between beauty and darkness creates a tension that’s essential to express the complexity of the human experience, grief, struggle, and even moments of clarity and peace can coexist in a very organic way.
The personal struggle to overcome? And its effect of a tidal rhythm that feels overwhelming?
‘’The personal struggle to overcome is a central theme in the album. Grief and hardship often feel like waves, sometimes they're subtle but at other times they crash down with an overwhelming force. The tidal rhythm you’re referring to is an embodiment of that emotional storm: the constant ebb and flow of despair and hope, of feeling overwhelmed and then finding strength to move forward.
To stand in the light than take solace in the shadows?
‘’We think the album asks that very question: whether we choose to confront the light or take comfort in the shadows. Both have their place. Standing in the light can bring clarity and healing, but sometimes we find solace in the shadows, in the quiet moments where we can process our emotions without external pressures. It’s about finding your own balance, your own path through the darkness.
Does it represent more than just a sound but a personal perspective on a subject that is seldom explored or discussed?
‘’Yes, absolutely. Extreme music often deals with heavy topics but grief, in particular, is something that isn't always openly discussed. By addressing it in this way, Shape of Grief offers a personal perspective on something that touches everyone but is often avoided or left unspoken. It's about shedding light on a difficult subject and offering a space for listeners to explore it through the music.
Your varied releases prove extreme music is timeless. Where can it go and progress?
‘’ Extreme music has always had the ability to evolve and push boundaries. As for where it can go, we think it’s limitless. It’s a genre that allows for constant experimentation, whether it’s through blending genres, exploring new emotional depths or incorporating new technologies and techniques. The beauty of extreme music is that it can always challenge conventions and continue to expand what’s possible.
Is extreme music something that could be defined as how much you put yourself and emotions into?
‘’We believe so. Extreme music is very much about expressing raw, unfiltered emotions. It's about pushing yourself to explore your limits. The more you pour yourself into it, the more genuine and intense the result will be. It's about being vulnerable and allowing the music to carry that emotional weight.
What inspired you to pursue extreme music and its importance to you?
‘’Extreme music allows the emotions to be expressed without restraint, and that’s something that resonates deeply within us. It's also a way to connect with others who may be going through similar struggles or experiences. Extreme music has always felt like a safe space for us, a place where we can express things that are hard to put into words.
Final thoughts?
‘’ Shape of Grief is a reflection of a very personal journey, but it’s also something that we hope can resonates with anyone who has experienced loss or hardship. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this together, navigating the complexities of life and emotions. Extreme music has a unique ability to bring people together through shared experiences, and we hope this record can provide that connection. Thank you for listening and for allowing this music to find its place in your life.
12. Top 6 albums of all time?
Katatonia, “The Great Cold Distance.”
Opeth, “Blackwater Park.”
Swallow The Sun, “New Moon.”
The Cure, “Disintegration.”
Alcest, “Écailles de Lune.”
Anathema, “The Silent Enigma.”
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