Category Archives: Interviews

Crafting Sonic Alchemy: CZARINA’s Mystical Journey through Music and Magic

CZARINA, is more than a musician; she’s a multifaceted artist who paints her sonic and visual landscapes with unmatched creativity. Born in the Philippines and now based in Spain, her music defies easy categorization, blending symphonic dark electro, neo-pagan mysticism, gothic prog rock, darkwave, synthpop, and more. CZARINA’s work is a tapestry woven from animist mysticism, folklore, mythology, metaphysics, and gothic themes, creating a sound and visual experience that transcends genres.

Her journey into music wasn’t a typical one. She began as a young performer and Broadway enthusiast, but her passion later shifted towards dark alternative rock and industrial music. However, she temporarily paused her musical pursuits to build a successful career in fashion, leading her own company. Yet, the relentless ambition and eventual burnout made her realize that something vital was missing – her music. CZARINA made a life-altering decision to reignite her musical path five years ago, drawing from the rich tapestry of life experiences and perspectives she had accumulated.

The name “CZARINA” echoes her past endeavors in building “empires” and her transformative journey towards higher principles and grounded pursuits. It’s a name that carries a sense of regality, much like her shared birthday with the legendary artist Prince.

What sets CZARINA apart is her refusal to fit neatly into any musical box. Her latest record, “Arcana,” defies categorization, blending electronic and organic elements with ancient and modern sounds. Her compositions incorporate intricate rhythms, harmonic layering between orchestral and electronic instruments, and her powerful vocals. CZARINA’s music captivates with its authenticity and complexity, defying easy classification.

Her creative process is deeply influenced by her surroundings. Moving from the bustling New York City to the mystical landscapes of Galicia, Spain, profoundly impacted her sound. The ethereal beauty of the Costa Da Morte, where her house sits by the water, seeped into her music, especially on her album “Arcana.” Her music became a vessel for capturing the magic of her newfound home.

CZARINA’s artistic journey has had its challenges, but she’s learned that success in music doesn’t always follow a predictable path. It’s not a matter of being the best; it’s about finding the right audience and developing a dedicated following. Authenticity doesn’t need to compete; it resonates with those who connect with it.

Beyond her music, CZARINA believes in the metaphysical power of sound. Music is a healer, and she views her favorite artists as magicians and alchemists who know how to harness sound for profound experiences and healing. Frequencies and vibrations can dismantle the walls we build within ourselves and bring about transformation.

CZARINA is not just a vocalist; she’s a multi-instrumentalist, playing the piano/keys, synths, and guitars. Each instrument contributes uniquely to her music, whether it’s the piano as her primary composing tool or the guitar adding a distinct voice to her compositions.

She draws inspiration from artists like Tool, whose intricate rhythms and sound designs have influenced her approach. Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails and Bjork also inspire her to push creative boundaries while staying true to her own vision.

Her songs are open to interpretation, often holding multiple meanings and layers. For instance, “Wonderland” celebrates the magic of Galicia but also serves as a metaphor for the sacred wonder within all our lives, a reminder of the healing power of music.

Despite the challenges of a music career, CZARINA finds the most rewarding aspect in creating art that aligns with her vision and values. It’s about making something deeply personal and genuine. However, the music industry’s landscape is challenging, and artists often struggle to make a living. CZARINA believes in the power of authenticity and hopes for solutions to help independent artists thrive.

She actively supports causes that protect nature, the ocean, and wildlife, such as the Sea Shepherds. Nature and the environment hold a special place in her heart, and she advocates for their preservation.

Looking ahead, CZARINA aspires to tour the world and continue pushing her creative boundaries. Her music will evolve and progress, reaching more listeners and hearts.

In the coming months, she has exciting projects, including a cover song and music video, an epic music film for “The Fox’s Wedding,” and work on her third record, slated for release in 2024.

To stay updated and connected with CZARINA and her latest work, you can follow her C Z A R I N A | Bandcamp or sign up for her newsletter at The CZARINA Official Website.

Claudia Blackstar: Unmasking the Musician Behind the Mystique

In the world of music, there are artists, and then there are visionaries who take their craft to a whole new level. Claudia Blackstar, a singer and music producer hailing from Birmingham, UK, undoubtedly falls into the latter category. Born into a world steeped in musical influences, Claudia’s journey has been one of transformation, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

Claudia’s enigmatic Stage Persona “Claudia Blackstar” draws inspiration from the world of scene arts, where performers take on distinct roles masked in mystery. Influenced by bands like Slipknot and Ghost, Claudia weaves a visual tapestry that transcends the conventional boundaries of music. It’s a unique blend of music and theater, a testament to her artistic depth. Claudia’s music isn’t just about the visuals; it carries a profound message. Her lyrics delve into the realms of wiccan beliefs, nature, and personal reflections, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Each song is a poetic exploration, leaving room for interpretation and connection.

The journey to becoming Claudia Blackstar wasn’t a straight path. Claudia’s initial foray into music was through songwriting and demos. Still, her true understanding of music expanded when she ventured into the world of music production. It was a pivotal moment that allowed her to transform her ideas into tangible musical expressions.The name “Blackstar” itself holds a captivating allure. It’s a nod to Claudia’s fascination with the dark and mysterious, drawing from influences like Lucifer Morningstar. It’s a name that’s both evocative and concise, a perfect fit for her solo work.Claudia’s musical influences are a testament to her eclectic taste. Her playlist spans from goth legends like Bauhaus and The Sisters Of Mercy to contemporary artists like Evanescence and Linkin Park. It’s a rich tapestry of sounds that she effortlessly weaves into her music, creating a unique and authentic sonic experience.

When it comes to creativity, Claudia’s process is all about letting ideas flow. She thrives in a quiet environment, fully focused on the task at hand. It’s a moment of connection with her inner self, where inspiration takes shape. Joining electro-goth project Drop Beat Empire and alternative metal outfit After Dark was a turning point in Claudia’s career. These collaborations widened her artistic horizons, allowing her to explore different musical dimensions while staying rooted in her influences.

Collaboration in the music industry can be tricky, but Claudia approaches it with professionalism and alignment of tastes. She believes in maintaining a consistent line of work while embracing diversity in styles. Balancing creativity across various projects requires clear roles and boundaries. Claudia ensures that her solo work encompasses her full creative spectrum, while collaborations allow her to focus on specific aspects, depending on the project’s needs. Yet, the path of a musician isn’t without its challenges. Burnout, a common hurdle, is something Claudia grapples with. Her valuable lesson is the importance of giving time to oneself, a reminder that self-care is paramount.

Music, for Claudia, is a powerful tool for change. It has the ability to impact lives, but its effect depends on the willingness of the audience to embrace the message. While smaller artists like Claudia may have a more localized impact, they still inspire change within their communities. Instruments like the keyboard and guitar play a significant role in Claudia’s music. They serve as tools to translate her ideas into melodies and arrangements, enhancing the emotional depth of her compositions.

Influence is a two-way street. Claudia’s singing approach, inspired by artists like Amy Lee, is characterized by a passionate delivery. It’s a passion that resonates throughout her music, an embodiment of her artistic individuality. Claudia’s lyrics, often poetic and rooted in her dark insights, carry stories waiting to be discovered. While there may not be hidden meanings, there are tales to be told, some abstract, others direct, all wrapped in her unique perspective.

The most rewarding aspect of being a musician, according to Claudia, is knowing that her work connects with someone out there. It’s the joy of making that emotional bond, even if it’s with just one person. However, the challenges of dealing with burnout are real, as time becomes the most precious resource. Claudia doesn’t just create music; she fosters a community of fellow artists. Her platform encourages and inspires others to pursue their creative endeavors, fostering a sense of togetherness.

Looking to the future, Claudia remains rooted in the present. She can’t predict what lies ahead, but as long as inspiration flows and people believe in her work, she’ll continue to evolve as an artist and as a person. As for upcoming releases, Claudia keeps her projects close to her chest, but she has announced her debut album, “Visions Of The Moon,” which promises to be a mesmerizing journey into her artistic world.

To stay updated and connected with Claudia Blackstar’s latest work,
visit
The Claudia Blackstar Official Instagram.
or
The Claudia Blackstar Official LinkTree
You’ll find links to her YouTube, Bandcamp, and Spotify, among others. Join her on this enigmatic musical voyage, and discover the depths of Claudia Blackstar’s artistry.

Igniting Transformation Through Aggrotech and Industrial Sounds

In 2006, an electrifying moment took place when our interviewee witnessed Hocico perform live in Tijuana. From that moment on, Her passion for the aggressive and angst-ridden sounds of Aggrotech and Industrial music was ignited. It was a turning point that set them on a path towards Her musical career.

Her name is inspired by Kentaro Miura’s dark horror comic, “Berserk,” and as such, her project carries a unique essence;
A manifestation of the suppressed aggression and anguish that exists within the world, providing an outlet for expression and release.

The creative process for Barbieserk involves a constant evolution, with a cognizance on frequencies, she has honed her skills and been inspired by fellow DJs.
Encouraged to master the art of beat matching, she has grown in passion and experience.
Through this creative process, Barbieserk channels emotions, environments, and personal moments into the music, creating an immersive experience for dancers.

Her journey has not been without challenges though;
Public scrutiny and the need to address inexcusable public behavior from a former member of the collective presented a difficult hurdle. Yet, our Barbieserk stood firm, recognizing the importance of integrity and maintaining a respectful approach.
Lessons were learned, and the commitment to upholding moral values remained steadfast.

Music possesses a transformative power that extends beyond mere entertainment.
Barbieserk recognizes this and believes in the potential for music to lead to societal changes, by addressing important issues. She personally understands the impact of music on the world and actively participates in activism as it regards empowering a positive societal difference.

Influenced by iconic acts such as Hocico, God Module, Alien Vampires, and Noisuf-X, Barbieserk weaves together the raw sounds of industrial dance music, incorporating snippets of sound bites from movies or political speeches, in order to create a distinct and stylistic playlist, which dancers can’t help but activate to.

Within her repertoire lies a soundscape of emotions, with hidden meanings and subtexts waiting to be discovered by attentive listeners. Each song carries a message, a theme, or a feeling that transcends the surface and invites deeper reflection and interpretation.

For Barbieserk, the ultimate reward lies in seeing even a single person actively enjoying her music. The joy of connecting with an audience of individuals, creating an atmosphere where emotions can be freely expressed outweighs the challenges and sacrifices that come with a career in music. The path she has traveled to arrive at this mindset, taught her resilience and the ability to navigate rejection, while cherishing every opportunity to perform to a packed crowd of energetic individuals.

As to the future, Barbieserk’s goals remain focused on evolving her artistic style, and introducing original music to the scene.
She aspires to host live musical performances by artists within the genre, into the collective social consciousness, whereby reigniting the passion for the Aggrotech and Industrial styles.

With residencies at Til Two Club in San Diego, California, and through Rapture, Barbieserk continues to evolve and captivate audiences.
Her vision for the future is bright, and she is eager to connect with fans and listeners who share Her passion through Her social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.

Barbieserk’s journey as a DJ is one of relentless dedication, overcoming obstacles, and embracing the transformative power of music.

“Remember through music, we can find solace, connect with others, and strive for empowering positive social change.”

From The Vault: A Darkside Interview with Angelspit

To celebrate the upcoming album release “The Star”
from Angelspit, 07.24.23
we decided to dig into the vaults, and bring out a interview we featured on
Evol Radio LIVE

(Original Air Date: 12.17.20)

KICKSTARTING NOW, but only a few days left to back the Kickstarter.
http://kck.st/3WvQ9nk

Bandcamp Digital Release:
July 24, 2023

CD/USB/T-Shirts Release: August 21, 2023 

VINYL/TAPE Release: November 2023

The Bastard Gods, by Angelspit


Deals are limited, so get it before July 3.
Free US shipping.