Doomed Confessionary: Sandro Vizcaino (Helevorn)
Photo credits: Tuco Martin
Helevorn just dropped their fifth studio album »Espectres« on September 13th, 2024 via Meuse Music Records, which promises to deliver a gloomy, gothic, and doomy metal listening experience. Following significant line-up changes over the past three years, Helevorn has emerged stronger and more creative than ever. The band enlisted the talents of Sebastià Barceló (Trallery) for drum recordings, adding a new dynamic to their sound.
While still rooted in their self-coined “Mediterranean Doom” style, this album leans more heavily into pure doom and metal elements. The band promises a less epic, less folk-influenced sound, focusing instead on the core essence of doom metal. Helevorn thinks it can be an intense experience for those who want to connect something very emotional and very philosophic with dark and gloomy music.
Helevorn are Josep Brunet (vocals), Sandro Vizcaino (guitars), Alex Correa (guitars), JM Rubio (bass) and Pedro S Bonnin (keyboards).
Can you say a few words about your band?
Formed in 1999 in Mallorca (Spain). Same band members until 2020. Replacing four of them and now we are celebrating the release of our fifth album »Espectres«.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
The big challenge was to find the right replacement for four new members four years ago. Then start composing altogether and have the same goal. And we did it!
What can you be most proud of so far?
The effort the newbies did to be able to create the new album. It’s great to see them working so much for the band.
What was your biggest regret?
We never regret of anything, but if I have to name one… rejecting a Japan tour some years ago!
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Uhhhh! That’s a difficult one. Touring Canada with Majestic Downfall in 2019 was awesome.
Our last tour supporting Saturnus and Esoteric over Europe was incredible. It was our first tour with the new band members and it was a very good opportunity to test the new lineup.
Both a lifetime experience.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
I think there has not been anything interesting since the end of 90’s. There is no “generation change” in today’s music. We are like the rest of the metal bands: we make 90’s music in the present time.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
It is very random, I listen to Pink Floyd, The Cure, Ahab, Evergrey, Madrugada, Katatonia, Paradise Lost, God Is An Astronaut…
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Hahaha, the one I’ve never followed, “Practice” (too boring).
What are your guilty pleasures?
I have to admit that I enjoy to play the guitar naked when I rehearsal the songs at home.
Can you say something more about current music scene in Mallorca?
Here in Mallorca the music scene is very limited, so many talented bands of all the genres but with not enough venues to play.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Our booking agency is dealing with some interesting festivals for 2025 and the next European show it will be the Doom Over Viena, in November 2024.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
With the settled lineup we will start composing new material entering 2025, hoping not to take/wait another 5 years for a new album.
How can people best support your band?
For us always the best way to support the band is by attending the shows, if possible, and of course, buying the band merch from the bands webstore.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Please, enjoy listening our music, be happy and we look forward to see you somewhere, hopefully playing live.
Links:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | YouTube
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well