For the first question, which was already asked to you many times, I guess, how and why did you choose the name of Soulspell for the band?Heleno - It is a personal matter very important to me. Also, it sounds really good to me and it has two beautiful, powerful and magic words: Soul and Spell. If you are a dreamer like me you should understand it well :)
You're the instigator of this project. How did you get the idea?
Heleno – I always loved to write stories and, as a musician, to start composing was just a matter of time. I have so many inspiration sources that it would be impossible to cite all of them here. In general my idea came from the big number of Brazilian talents we have here, which should be enough to create 50 metal opera albums and from Disney soundtracks and from the other projects/bands which have used this kind of idea so far.
The list of musicians who played on the last album is very impressive. Was it a difficult thing to convince them to join you in this adventure?
Heleno – No, I just present the project to them with all the details I can and they decide if they will join us or not. I do not insist. It is pretty simple but sometimes it is not so easy to get their contacts.
How would you describe your music to people who do not know Soulspell?
Heleno – Soulspell is a very honest, humble but ambitious project from which you can get some positive feeling to your life. Besides being a fairytale, Soulspell’s lyrics address human emotions so you can see yourself in some of our characters. We intend to write songs which work well alone and also as part of a general concept which is our story. It should work somewhat like some Disney soundtracks or Lord of The Rings soundtrack. We have just one story for all the albums. Regarding the songs, we compose them not to be “mathematical” songs or if you prefer, call it progressive songs. Our songs should
be very deep feeling depicting the emotions involved in some part of Soulspell’s story.What are your main influences?
Heleno – I am influenced by many music styles from Tears for Fears, Maná, Roupa Nova (Brazil) and Alanis Morissette to Slayer and Sepultura, through my favorites Heavy Metal Bands: Iron Maiden, Blind Guardian and Sonata Arctica.
How does the songwriting process?
Heleno - First I write a general context, then I write the characters main characteristics and then I detail the story and write some lyrics. I decide who will be invited to record the characters studying their previous works so I can write adequate vocal lines to each singer/character. Also, of course, based on their timbre I offer them some adequate character.
What are the subjects you covered with your lyrics?
Heleno – All of them are placed somewhere in Soulspell’s story, but all of them have also advice for young hearts :) Our lyrics address all the human emotions which certainly concern you somehow. Doesn’t it?
In which studio did you record the album? and who is the producer?
Heleno – Tito Falaschi is the producer. We have recorded all the albums at Genesis Hi Tech Studios in Lençóis Paulista-SP/Brazil.
Who made the cover and what is its meaning for you?
Heleno – Felipe Machado (Blind Guardian, Rhapsody of Fire) made our last cover artwork. We always counted on great artists for the covers, like J.P. Fournier and Jon Avon and I think it is very important for a project like Soulspell. Felipe did a great job which synthesizes the third act of Soulspell’s story where Hollow, the “dragon”, who symbolizes a supreme being who leads the dark part of the universes, tries to find out what happened in the labyrinth of truths (sse the last part of the story at our website). I’m not a professional but I think Felipe w
orked really well with the colors and concept of this cover.What are the reactions about "Hollow's Gathering"?
Heleno – They are the best we had so far. I think it shows Soulspell has a promising future.
How did you manage to be on Inner Wounds Records?
Heleno – I personally got their manager’s contact and sent him all the Soulspell stuff. Today Soulspell and Inner Wound have a good and promising relationship.
Will you tour to promote the album?
Heleno – Yes. I intend to promote this album the best I can.
Do you know some French bands, and if yes, what do you think of the current French scene?
Heleno – Yes, of course. I like some French bands like Adagio and Gojira. Regarding the French scene it is always on the schedule of great metal bands, so it must be really nice. I love the France history and I want to know it really soon. You have a great country.
Are there any concrete plans for a new album already?
Heleno – Yes. I am making contacts and writing the new songs right now :) It will be a big/great album.
Regarding the Internet, what is your overall opinion of this media? Do you think that peer to peer is really damaging for bands? Is it a good promotional tool?
Heleno – I have no doubt it is damaging for bands. There’s no excuse. I think that kind of promotion could be handled by the bands which could allow the fans to listen to parts of the new songs. Unfortunately we have to deal with it the best we can ‘til this “age” is gone.
Any last words for the readers of Spirit Of Metal?
Heleno – Yes. Dear Soulspell fans, please ask for a Soulspell concert at your country! :) I thank you for all the support through these years of hard work. Thanks a lot and hope you like the new album!
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Interview done by Hellsheimer
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