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1. For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the solo project?
Vesseles was created to be an outlet for coping with my demon identity. The music is meant to convey how that feels through the progressions, instrument choices and overall atmosphere. The core feeling is existential dread, dysphoria and hatred both of oneself and the world around.
2. In May you have an EP coming out, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?
Black metal felt the most appropriate for the subject matter. So, I started with that as the main direction and influence but not as a rule. I tend to add strings, keys, horns, etc into my work because I enjoy the atmosphere it adds. Adding eerie chords and piano lines became the signature sound for this EP and project going forward.
3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects that you have explored so far with the music?
The project is based around my identity so all of the lyrics relate to my experiences with that. Some relate to self hatred and others to hating what’s outside of my control. Since this EP has a storyline, the lyrics lean more into transformation of self but fall back into internal struggles.
4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Vesseles'?
The name is a play on vessel/vessels. “Vesseles” is meant to have a Latin feel. My body feels like nothing but a vessel that contains my true self. It’s not really “me”. This is where the plural version comes in. I like to think that my true vessel is out there somewhere. For now, I live through two different vessels. The reason I didn’t pick vessel or vessels is because these are two very commonly used names for projects and I always like to think of something that’s easy to remember yet is not taken.
5. Can you tell us a little bit about the artwork that is presented on the new ep cover?
Since the EP title is “I Am a Demon”, it felt most applicable to just have myself on the cover. I, at first, was thinking I’d get artwork made of this but the more I thought about it, the more it felt like having just a picture of myself was best.
6. The band is considered a solo project while you have a line up on the ep, are there any plans to expand into a full band?
I’d say “solo project” should be used loosely here. So far, there’s a live lineup and studio lineup. I’d like to expand the live lineup so the live experience is “fuller” but I don’t plan to include members in the writing process. I want to maintain the original purpose of this project which is to use it as an outlet for my own experiences with my identity.
7. What are some of the best shows that the live line up has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
We have only played one show so far but it’s certainly a great first one. We opened for Uada, Abigail Williams and Vile Rites in San Francisco. I want to invest more into our stage performance but it’s nice to have a baseline based on this show. The plan is to add more props and/backdrops as well as coordinate the piano breaks so everything feels more thematically accurate.
8. Do you have any touring or show plans once the new EP releases?
There’s an EP release show in the works but nothing has been announced yet.
9. Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
Not looking for a label currently.
10. When can we expect a full length and also where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?
I am currently writing the 2nd release. I’m not sure if it will be another EP or an album. I can’t promise either one. The musical direction is certainly faster and more inspired by my previous band, Arcane Existence. So, for anyone who was a fan of that material, they should find more to enjoy in this material.
11. What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Evanescence will always be my core influence. They have a lot to do with why I love adding orchestrations and piano in my music. Otherwise, Cradle of Filth, Dark Funeral, and Dimmu Borgir are a few other indirect influences. I say indirect because I don’t really listen to them actively but since I listened to them early on, they certainly planted some influences.
I don’t listen to the extreme stuff as much as I used to. I’ll always come back to it but right now I’m listening to Spiritbox, PVRIS, Syncatto, and Greyhaven
12. Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
This project is easily the most personal music I’ve ever written. Releasing the first single was extremely anxiety driven and I have a strong feeling the rest of this material will be the same. I hope to inspire anyone who’s struggling with their identity or sense of belonging. This music isn’t just about me, it’s about the importance of self discovery and sticking true to yourself.
Bandcamp: https://vesseles.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vesseles/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuDHPK1_w08uh6eL27gW6fg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vesseles666/
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