Following trends has never been an option for power metal act 7th Reign who have just released their sophomore release Fallen Empires. Majestic is the first thing that comes to mind in trying to describe the scope of the album and the depth of the music on display. Deeply rooted within the Euro-metal school of thought; the end result is not the kind of album you would expect from a Canadian metal band. Metallus Maximus caught up with guitarist Marios Panayiotis and singer Brian Soulard to discuss Fallen Empires and the road ahead...
MM: Fallen Empires is a huge step ahead from your first album, both musically and production wise. The band sounds much more mature and focused, while more prog elements have been incorporated this time around. Was that the plan right from the start or did it just evolved in the studio?
Marios: I would have to say that as far as the production goes , it was a plan from the start. We always talk about how we want to make the next album sound better, and what we need to do in order to achieve that. The music on the other hand is written naturally without really any plan. Although there is a vision pre writing the song, it is more about what the story of the song calls for, and not about the technical elements that will go into it.
Brian: We definitely wanted a stronger production and we also had a vision of the album concept and message. The title track of the album really encompasses the core theme of the album and the rest of the songs fit into the picture as well. Yet, each song can stand alone and have there own unique story.
MM: The album flows amazingly well; the memorable song writing makes each track stand on it's own, yet the end result feels like a concept album. Stylistically, there's definitely a strong musical connection to the European Power Metal sound. Was there a conscious effort to incorporate those influences in the 7Th Reign sound?
Brian: I agree, I think that because of the focused lyric writing the album does have a concept feel. We really didn't try to write a concept album but instead focused on a theme of sorts. As far as musically, there is a connection to the Euro sound but it is not done on purpose. Marios writing is very diverse and steams from classical structure so that automatically ties into a European Metal sound. Of course we have keyboards that add to that feel as well. We consider ourselves a band that was founded on the roots of Metal with a connection to Classical while utilizing Theatrical elements as well.
MM: The song '7th Reign', which appeared on your 2005 demo, finally got the royal treatment it truly deserved. How did it feel to re-record it with such an epic feel and bigger production?
Marios: It felt great to have finalized this song. This was the first song that Brian and I demoed to start the band 7th Reign. We knew after finishing the demo back then that we would have to get the best sounds we could find. So after a few studio upgrades we were able to achieve this.
Brian: For me I could not be more pumped about this song. To have it recorded properly was a good indicator to us that we were improving our presentation of the music and stylistically the song fit on this album really well. Once you know your music will be presented at this level you can then start to really explore your writing ability and not hold back which in some cases can happen.
MM: Speaking of production, you guys self-produced the album, but hired legendary producer Beau Hill to mix and master the
album, how was it to work with him?
Marios: Well first off I would like to say that Beau Hill is a great guy. Very enthusiastic and into the project. I must say for the amount of work there was in mixing the songs, he really did a great job.
MM: The themes and lyrics explored on Fallen Empires are somewhat dark and foreboding, but there's also a sense of hope amongst the clouds. Is it all fictitious or are the lyrics based on personal experiences?
Marios: In some songs the lyrics are based on personal experiences, and in other ones personal beliefs. I love philosophy, and reading the Bible. The inspiration I draw from these sources feed the creativity. Especially during these dark times in the world.
Brian: There are lots of personal feelings and experiences contained in these lyrics but they are also a comment on society and what we are seeing around us. I think that in order to see the light you need to fight through the darkness and confusion that is in the world. It really can be a struggle each and everyday to hold to your value system and not get off track.
MM: What are your thoughts on the current north american metal scene for bands playing progressive power metal?
Brian: It seems to me that it is really tough out there. Traditionally North America has not had a huge following for Progressive Power Metal. But, we do love our Metal and I have noticed that younger and younger people are starting to get into the prog power or Euro based music. We need a band to really take off over here which would help all the other great bands that are writing and performing great music. The thing is though as an artist and entertainer you just have to focus on the people that are into the music and give them the best show that you can.
MM: With Fallen Empires, 7Th Reign proved they have a lot to offer; the band seem determined to forge ahead, what's in-store for the foreseeable future?
Marios: Well we plan to get the music out there as much as possible. Play a lot of shows , and prep for another recording.
Fore More info on 7th Reign, make sure to visit their official website:
7threign.com
Official 7th Reign MySpace:
myspace.com/7threign
