Interview with Angelwings

    Angelwings were formed in April 2013, making them the first symphonic metal band from Gibraltar. Initially they planned to be a Nightwish cover band, but they discovered very early that their own, original music has just as much potential. In October 2014 the band started to write their first demo called ‘’Wonderland’’, and they released their full length album called ‘’The Edge Of Innocence’’ last year.

     

    ‘’How are you all doing?’’

    ‘’The band is very excited, with a very busy agenda ahead.’’

     

    ‘’Let’s start with a little presentation. Who is Angelwings and how was the band formed?’’

    ‘’The band was formed in 2013 when Paul contacted Davinia to explore the possibility forming a band based on Rock and Metal. Originally we played covers to gel as a band but quickly had the need and the ideas to come up with our own music.’’

    ‘’How did you come up with the name?’’

    ‘’We all have our own individual preferences musically, but equally we all have a passion for Symphonic Metal. “Angelwings” seemed to fit the essence of the music we wanted to play, it had that gothic feel to it we were looking for, and we kept it.’’

     

    ‘’What band(s) / artist(s) have inspired you to become musicians?’’

    ‘’Many musicians and bands been an inspiration to us. Paul has been influenced by guitarists such as Blackmore, Vinnie Moore, Malmsteen and Adrian Vandenberg to mention but a few.’’

     

    ‘’How would you describe your music to someone who doesn’t know the band?’’

    ‘’We would say our music is far from mainstream trends. We try to make our songs as melodic as possible but keeping our own sound and musical identity. Yes, of course we are a Symphonic Metal band, but original in our compositions within the parameters of the genre.’’

     

    ‘’What is the main inspiration behind the music?’’

    ‘'We had many people tell us our style would not attract any attention because we are not mainstream. This never dissuaded us from doing what we do. Our aim was always to be happy with every composition and not adulterate music for commercial purposes, if people then liked it, it was a bonus to us, but we would never compromise. The inspiration comes from doing the music we like and how we like it. It is not calculated for radio play on National radio stations. It is the music we would go out and buy.’’

    ‘’What is your favorite song from The Edge Of Innocence, and why?’’

    ‘’We don’t have a favorite song to which we all agree. We give everything we have in every song. It really depends on the mood one could find oneself in. That said, there was consensus that the album should be titled “The Edge of Innocence” for more than one reason, it is a track with mood changes and quite a roller coaster track which we all enjoy performing an extended version of in our live performances.’’

     

    ‘’Who is the main writer in the band, or are you all equally involved in the creative process?’’

    ‘’All do contribute to the writing process in some measure. Glenn is very creative on keyboards and much of the time the spark will come from a keyboard idea, Nile Goddess and Memories are good examples.’’

     

    ‘’What do you think about the way music affects people’s lives, even changing them?’’

    ‘’Music has an effect on everyone, musicians and listeners alike. It can be a powerful motivator and a positive influence to most people. In our view, it is the most expressive form of art. Music is capable of influencing one’s mood and state of mind. It can be a “healer” if it reaches you. Where words end, music continues to communicate. People who feel music will be changed for the better.’’

     

    ‘’Outside of the business aspect, how has music affected you, personally?’’

    ‘’We never have considered the business aspect of music, so that has never been an influencing factor. We all share the same passion for music and do not think we will ever stop writing. There is much creativity in us and we feed of each other. It is true to say that Angelwings takes up all our time and effort, that’s probably the best example of how it affects us personally.’’

    ‘’What type of music do you generally listen to? Name some of your favorite bands / albums / songs.’’

    ‘’We all have our personal musical preferences. These vary from Rush to Iron Maiden, but Symphonic Metal is the liked by all band members.’’

     

    ‘’What is your opinion on the term ''Female Fronted Metal'' and the critique on it lately?’’

    ‘’The term “Female Fronted Metal” is just a label in our view. Our perception is that it is mainly used to make reference to Symphonic Metal bands with female vocalists, not so much to Rock bands. Hmmmmm...... well, if there is critique surrounding this description it is no different to the critique that every genre of music is subjected to at some point. It is normal and inevitable in our view.The term “Female Fronted Metal” is just a label in our view. Our perception is that it is mainly used to make reference to Symphonic Metal bands with female vocalists, not so much to Rock bands. Hmmmmm...... well, if there is critique surrounding this description it is no different to the critique that every genre of music is subjected to at some point. It is normal and inevitable in our view.’’

     

    ‘’Is there anything else you would like to add? Something I might have missed?’’

    ‘’Many thanks from all band members!’’

     

    For More Info Visit:

    www.angelwings-band.com/band.html

    facebook.com/angelwingsgib/

     

    Read the review of ‘’The Edge Of Innocence’’ here!

     

    By Tamar

    29/4/2018