Introduction: Due to time constraints as regular individuals running Witching Buzz and focusing primarily on writing reviews, we are limited to publishing only one (occasionally two) review(s) per day. However, we strongly believe in providing greater exposure to deserving bands and musicians who have put in immense effort. As a result, we have launched a new section called “Witching Riffs: Behind the Sound.” In this section, we have crafted a series of intriguing questions that we pose to every band or musician who wishes to share more about their unique projects. While the questions remain the same for each participant, the diversity among bands ensures that the answers will be fascinating and diverse. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this captivating journey as we delve into the minds and stories of these talented artists.
LARES / International
What drew you to the immersive and hypnotic sounds of doom black metal? How do you aim to captivate your listeners with this genre?
We got hooked on the trippy sounds and weird vibes. It’s all about breaking out of the usual musical rut and mixing in all sorts of influences— from the psychedelic to the downright bizarre. We love crafting those long, hypnotic riffs that make you feel like you’re floating through space, far from this world. Our goal? To take our listeners on a wild ride to a dark, cosmic dimension.
Can you share the story behind your band name? How does it reflect the essence of your music?
“Lares” is a name with some serious ancient vibes, like a Roman god that can morph into any shape—part hero, part demon. It’s perfect for us because our music is just as fluid and unpredictable. We’re not tied down to any one genre; we’re always evolving, always shifting. It’s like a soundtrack for the unexpected.
What are some unconventional or unexpected influences that have shaped your unique blend?
Honestly, depression and addiction have played big roles in our music. Our rehearsal space has doubled as a kind of therapy room where we can pour all that raw emotion into our jams. Our latest album, “Et in Arcadia Ego,” is like a long, twisted journey through the apocalypse, with all the ups and downs you’d expect from such a trip.
How do you approach creating expansive and atmospheric soundscapes? What techniques or methods do you employ to achieve that signature vibe?
We’re all about the jam sessions—hours of messing around with loud tube amps, heaps of distortion, and a mountain of pedals. Sometimes we even fog up the room to get that perfect atmosphere. It’s like cooking up a psychedelic stew; you just keep adding layers until it’s just right.
Are there specific themes or emotions you seek to convey through your music? How does alternative music help you express those concepts effectively?
We’re going for that ultimate bad acid trip vibe—dark, gloomy, and a bit unsettling. Alternative music gives us the freedom to really explore those dark corners and push the boundaries. It’s all about creating a mood that makes you feel like you’re teetering on the edge of reality.
Share a remarkable moment or incident from your journey as a band that exemplifies the spirit of your music.
The pandemic was like a forced hiatus from hell. We couldn’t play together, and it was driving us nuts. But when we finally got back together, it was like uncorking a bottle of pent-up energy. The new tracks we laid down were raw and full of that bottled-up frustration—pure catharsis.
In what ways do you envision your music progressing or evolving in the future? Are there any new elements or experimental approaches you’d like to incorporate?
We’re always looking for new ways to trip people out. Maybe some electronic elements, shorter and more aggressive tracks. Who knows? We might even ditch the concept albums for a bit and just go for pure, unfiltered chaos. It’s all about keeping things fresh and unexpected.
Is there a particular song in your discography that perfectly encapsulates the essence of your music? Please elaborate on its creation and significance.
“Et in Arcadia Ego” is like the manifesto of our sound—raw, extreme, and dripping with psychedelic energy. It just kind of happened during our first post-pandemic jam, and we recorded it live to keep that raw, unpolished feel. If you’re looking for something a bit more radio- friendly, “It Burns” from our second album “Towards Nothingness” might be your jam. It’s like a gateway drug to our heavier stuff.
Are there any emerging or lesser-known artists within your genre that you find inspiring or deserving of more recognition? Feel free to share their names and what you appreciate about their work.
Oh man, there are so many! Oranssi Pazuzu, Thou, Eyehategod, Sum of R, Osees, Black Angels, Viagra Boys, Powerplant, She Past Away, Author & Punisher, Inter Arma—they’re all killing it. These bands aren’t afraid to push boundaries and play around with their sound. They’re like kindred spirits, refusing to be boxed into one genre.
What do you hope listeners experience or feel when they immerse themselves in your compositions? Is there a specific mood or sensation you aim to evoke?
Lares: We want to be the soundtrack to your ego death trip. It’s all about deep introspection, breaking down barriers, and coming out the other side with a heightened sense of awareness—or at least a good story to tell.
Turbo Regime:
– Fuzz or distortion? – Distortion first, then fuzz—gotta keep it dirty.
– Analog or digital effects? – Mostly analog, but some old-school digital stuff sneaks in there.
– Sabbath or Zeppelin? – Both! Sabbath for the doom, Zeppelin for the groove.
– Heavy riff or mind-bending solo? – Heavy, mind-bending riffs all the way.
– Vintage gear or modern equipment? – Vintage, because nothing beats that classic sound.
https://www.facebook.com/laresband
Label: Argonauta Records
PR: Grand Sounds Promotion
