www.facebook.com/remaininlightband
From: Thessaloniki, Greece
Sounds like: Gothic Rock/Post Punk
1. How did you get started with music and how did you develop your sound? Who thought of the name “Remain In Light” and is there any meaning behind it?
All former and actual members have been in a variety of earlier bands of various styles since our early teen age. Our common ground is at this point a relentless passion for music tested through time. From the start we easily felt that this dark and old-school but melodic and flexible style fitted everyone’s tastes. As for the name... it was difficult picking among a plethora of others and was proposed by our former guitarist and long time friend, Snow. We think it reflects so well in the feeling that in a world so bizaare and dark, light is so precious and necessary. No relation with the Talking Heads "Fabulous" LP...
2. What do you want listeners to take away from your music? Two bassist’s in the band is unique. Why is that?
Whatever their ears and mind may dictate. If we try to be more precise... introspection, deliverance from angst, enjoyment per say. As for the two basses... we couldn’t find a suitable guitarist but there was at a certain moment a second available bassist... We tried and thought he fit.
3. How would you describe your music to the average listener?
Melodic, powerful, distortion & chorus drenched, inner feelings' music accompanied by a baritone voice, suitable for nocturnal dreaming and musing...
4. What can people expect from your live show?
Our gigs are quite dynamic but also balanced and melodic. As time goes by –permitting our finances- we aim to incorporate theatrical elements too. We want the audience to drink, dance, chat and escape their reality. Go home fulfilled and pleased with the experience.
5. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?
Iggy Pop, New Model Army, and Fields of the Nephilim.
6. What’s your take on the current state of gothic rock?
Most of us know the scene since the 80’s. Through the years it has splintered into so many subgenres and hybrids. It’s normal and reflects an evolution. Also it has become significantly more commercial. That’s not necessarily bad but many bands base their sound on very specific stereotypes and lack originality. On the other hand the internet has given the opportunity to bands from countries that you wouldn’t expect to display their skills and shine.
7. What’s the current music scene like there in the Greece both locally and state wide?
We were formed in the midst of a never before seen economic crisis. Things are hard here for artists of all styles. Venues book only what seems or is financially secure for them. It’s quite hard to book gigs, let alone be paid... And people attend gigs less carefree than they used to. In our genre there are several bands and a few clubs in Athens but here up north, only 3-4 similar bands and one club only... Quite suffocating...
8. What’s your take on legal/illegal music downloading?
Everything related to making and distributing music has changed. Legal or not downloading has killed the total experience of buying music on a physical format. The sleeve and artwork, the smell, the touch, owning a real copy. That had a certain psychological impact on the way you felt towards what you heard... That’s why it’s partly coming back. Downloading is way too neutral.
9. What’s next for Remain In Light?
A new mini-LP (our favorite format) and hopefully European genre festivals.
10. Any shout outs?
A band or artist is nothing without the people who make things possible through their assistance, support and faith.
