Mortress was formed in 2022 through the meeting of guitarist Carlo Desimone and bassist/synth artist Federica Ansanelli, both coming from very different solo projects. Federica had a one-woman black metal band, while Carlo was working on a solo project that blended heavy metal, death metal, and neoclassical influences. The fusion of these elements gave birth to a powerful and original sound that combines the brutality of black metal with the complexity and technique of neoclassical metal.
Later, in 2023, Lorenzo Aimo joined the band as the drummer, completing the lineup. His contribution enriched the sound with a variety that deviates from classic black metal, bringing more dynamism and versatility.
After months of hard work and dedication, Mortress is finally ready to present their first self-produced single. "Silent Screams, Infernal Dreams" was then mixed and mastered at MK2 Recording Studio by Davide Billia.
This song marks the beginning of a musical journey and a key milestone for the band, who have recently completed writing their debut album, which is currently being recorded. By collaborating with various artists to further enrich their sound, Mortress promises a unique and intense listening experience, capable of capturing the attention of metal fans and beyond.
"Silent Screams, Infernal Dreams" is available on all digital platforms, and we invite you to add it to your playlists to immerse yourself in the dark and fascinating world of Mortress.
-Interview- (11/6/24)
1. How did you get started with music and how did you develop your sound? How did the name "Mortress" come about and is there any meaning to it?
Mortress was born from the meeting of guitarist Carlo Desimone and bassist/synth artist Federica Ansanelli, both coming from very different solo projects. Federica had a one-woman band black metal, while Carlo was working on a solo project blending heavy metal, death metal, and neoclassical influences. The fusion of these elements resulted in a powerful and original sound, combining the brutality of black metal with the complexity and technique of neoclassical metal.
Later, Lorenzo Aimo joined the band as the drummer, completing the lineup. His contribution enriched our sound with a variety that moves away from classic black metal, bringing more dynamics and versatility.
The name 'Mortress' comes from our shared passion for Death, a band that had a huge influence on us. 'Morte' is the Italian translation of 'Death,' and we wanted our name to somehow pay homage to that great band. At the same time, we were looking for a concept that evoked resistance and survival, much like a fortress. The fusion of these two concepts – 'death' and 'fortress' – gave life to the name 'Mortress,' which represents our musical vision: an unstoppable force that resists and survives in a difficult world.
2. What do you want people to take away from your music?
Many of our riffs were born from dark and challenging moments in our lives. The songs reflect the emotions and sensations we've experienced, which are part of the human condition. Through our music, we aim to take the listener on a sonic journey, one that invites introspection and reflection on the connection between what exists within us and the world around us. We want our music to be a mirror of those raw, real feelings, and to create an experience that encourages people to explore their own inner landscapes, as well as the way they relate to the external world.
3. How would you describe your sound to the average listener?
Atmospheric, melancholic, and melodic, yet still charged with metal!
4. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?
Immortal, Nocturnal Depression, Gojira.
5. What's your thoughts on AI generated music?
We think it can perfectly reproduce something that has already been done, but it certainly cannot create something innovative and original.
6. What’s your take on the current state of Black Metal?
We think it's currently a very vibrant scene, both in terms of fans and artists. Over the years, we've had the chance to see many black metal concerts.
7. What’s the current music scene like there in Italy?
Honestly, we don't follow the Italian music scene. However, we do recognize that there are many great bands in the underground.
8. What’s your take on the royalties that streaming services pay out to artists?
For emerging bands, it's impossible to be supported by this system.
9. What’s next for Mortress?
We are currently finishing the recordings for our first album. Collaborations and definitely some very interesting live shows are coming up.
10. Any shoutouts?
We'd like to thank Davide Billia, who took care of our mix and mastering, doing a great job at his MK2 Recording Studio. Thanks also to everyone who follows us on social media and makes our work so motivating. Lastly, we thank you for this interview!
