Interviews: Alizarin

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Cinematic Rock/Progressive Rock/Rock band Alzarin, from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that?

The name Alizarin refers to a particular color of red, alizarin crimson, commonly used among painters. I’ve been into drawing and painting as far back as I can remember, and the way humans perceive and interpret color is fascinating to me. Red is my favorite color and it is a powerful visual in many cultures worldwide. The specific shade and term “alizarin” sounds peculiar. I knew I wanted this to be the name of the band before it actually formed.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Each of us come from different musical backgrounds but we all share a love for melodic metal music, especially the interesting sounds of progressive rock/metal. The word “progressive” has come to define a whole genre, with certain genre expectations, and we try not to subscribe to that label too often. We just enjoy playing and writing compelling heavy music, influenced by many styles, that challenges both us and the listener.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

We actually didn’t know any of each other before Alizarin. I placed an ad online in an attempt to form this group and our drummer Jon signed up early. We encountered small lineup changes before bringing onboard Terran on bass and Avelino on keyboard. Essentially, the power of networking on social media brought us together.

4. Each band member favorite band?

Never a bad time to discuss favorite bands! Jon and Avelino are big fans of Dream Theater. Terran’s favorites are Animals As Leaders, Intronaut, and The Safety Fire. I myself love Nevermore and Opeth, among countless other groups.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

I get inspired by great music I hear, the melodies, interesting chord progressions, and amazing musicians. For me, it’s typically auditory influences. Our new record ‘The Last Semblance’ contains vocals, a first for the band, so writing lyrics made us consider more conceptual ideas as well. Most of the lyrics are inspired by personal considerations and conflicts. A way of expressing thoughts, not necessarily an attempt to create “deep meaning”. Other songs take influence from media, such as books and films.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was at Chain Reaction in Anaheim, CA. We opened up for Intronaut, which was a major honor, along with our friends in Karas. Not long after this show the Covid-19 pandemic began to take the world by storm, but it ended up being a perfect time to finish this album.

7. Where would you like to act?

We haven’t toured yet, so playing across the US is a must. But it would be fantastic to get over to Europe and do a long tour over there. There are several progressive music festivals we’re keen on as well, both here in the States and over the pond. Japan is another country we would love to spread our music to. 

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

There are so many groups we would love to have a chance to play with. One of the biggest influences on Alizarin is Opeth. Supporting a tour with them would be an absolute dream. Playing with Haken, Nick Johnston, Steven Wilson, and The Contortionist would be amazing as well.

9. Whom not?

I’m not sure if there are any bands we wouldn’t want to play with. I try to be pretty open- minded.

10. Any of you has ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

Interesting question. It’s not something we’ve really discussed as a group but we certainly get a bit anxious prior to a show. Some of it is just inevitable and can actually help give us an extra edge. Personally, I think I have more stage fright now than ever before, partially because I’m singing lead vocals in addition to playing guitar. I’ve never done that in any previous band and it’s something I’m still polishing up every day. I think lots of practice helps to calm the nerves, partly just because it instills a certain confidence that you arrived at the gig prepared. 

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Opeth, Nevermore, Haken, Portishead, Animals As Leaders, Dream Theater, Alice in Chains, XTC, Porcupine Tree/Steven Wilson

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

I’m not sure what the weirdest thing we’ve been asked for is, but we are constantly asked about the pronunciation of the band name. In fact, either people aren’t sure and have to ask or they definitely pronounce it incorrectly. For the record, the correct pronunciation is “uh-liz-uh- rin”, haha.

13. What do you think of your fans?

We are absolutely grateful for all of our fans. Anyone and everyone who listens to an artist’s music and enjoys it plays a crucial role in the growth of said artist. This isn’t the most popular style of music and we go into it realizing that. But those who truly enjoy the music we create will forever be part of the art itself. We hope we can keep influencing the ears of many more people with this new album.

14. What do you think of our site?

You guys seem to have a great thing going with your site! You cover the full gamut of rock music and you feature many obscure groups, which is vital to the DIY music world. I’ve already discovered some interesting groups while cruising your site.I’ll definitely keep checking in on it.

15. Something add?

We hope the Breathing The Core audience (and every audience) enjoys what we do and our new album. It’s been an immense undertaking and we really agonized over the details, with no note left unturned. It offers something for everyone, from the more casual music listener, to the most scrutinizing audiophile. Check out our single new “Elegy Simulacra” and follow us online as the rest of the album unfolds.