Interview: Exilia (Written)
Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life brings you an interview with Italian alternative metal band, Exilia.
1. Hello! Thank you for taking the time to chat to us. First things first, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got started.
Hey, we are EXILIA, a distinctive female alternative metal band hailing from the dynamic heart of Milan, Italy. Our music is an amalgamation of diverse influences, infused with profound lyrics, resulting in a truly unique sonic experience.
2. Someone comes to you and asks you to sum up what kind of music you play – what do you tell them?
We’d describe it as a powerful fusion of metal, punk, and poetry. It’s an energetic, hard-hitting sound, fast beat, poetry, catchy melodies …. that delves deep into emotions.
3. What’s currently going on in your camp? New releases? Tours? Etc.
We’re continuously working on new music and evolving our sound. Our 20th-anniversary celebrations of our mastrerpiece “Unleashed” are on the horizon, featuring special collaborations and exciting live dates. A Couple of big shows to promote the new album are right here in front us, and we’re thrilled to be gearing up for an exclusive live show at the legendary ‘The Pitcher’ in Dusseldorf.
4. What has been the most positive experience of making music to date for you?
Oh yeah, there’s no doubt about it! Our extensive tour in the USA with Drowning Pool was an incredible experience for us. The connection with the audience and the friendship we established with Drowning Pool made it truly unforgettable. Music goes beyond just songs; it’s about passion and forging human connections.
5. Likewise, what has been some of the more challenging aspects and how have you overcome them?
Coming from Italy, it’s not an easy situation. Italy doesn’t have a large metal scene, so we made the decision to relocate to Germany in the early stages. However, we never viewed it as a sacrifice; rather, it was an exciting opportunity to achieve something remarkable and to evolve.
6. How do you handle the modern expectations of being in a band? Always online, having to put out content constantly, your success measured in likes and follows?
Managing the modern expectations of constant online presence and content creation is indeed demanding. We approach it with authenticity, focusing on connecting with our fans in genuine ways and sharing what truly resonates with us.
7. What’s something that really ‘grinds your gears’ about the industry/business these days and what would you propose is done to combat it?
The music industry’s overwhelming saturation can feel overwhelming. We often notice many imitations, with identical sounds and voices. Moreover, a few record labels nowadays seem to favor specific music genres, leaving little room for those who embrace a unique identity. To counter this, we strongly advocate for fostering genuine artistry and prioritizing quality over quantity. True talent and creativity should always be at the forefront.
8. Speaking directly to listeners – what would you ask they do to help support your music?
They can listen our music on Spotify, buy our official merchandise.. and keep following us on our socials and official website.
9. Outside of the music, what’s do you do to relax?
Outside of music, we find relaxation in different ways. Some of us enjoy exploring nature, while others delve into literature, art, and various creative endeavours.
10. Where can people find you?
You can find us on various platforms: our official website, social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, as well as streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Join us and stay tuned!
Thanks for having us!