GMA Interview Interrogation: Ilenkus (Ireland)

Ilenkus are a Progressive Post-Metal quintet from Ireland, the lads have recently released their latest album "The Crossing" (15/09/14) and have also unveiled their latest music video "Over The Fire, Under The Smoke" which in total honesty is a rather special video, no visual effects, no gimmicky tricks or fancy stuff, just one lad by the name of Chris Brennan strolling through the streets of Galway, singing to the song to bemused onlookers.

You can watch the video further down.

GMA managed to catch up with the lads and talk to them about both the new album, their music video, what they think the Irish Metal scene should have and whether or not they should ditch the euro.


Hi guys, a lot has happened in the Ilenkus camp, can you give us the background behind your new album?

We recorded the album in different locations in Ireland but we wanted to go with an engineer who understood our goals and the sonic real estate in which the album would sit in. We spoke with many engineers about making the album and eventually Chris Common (Chelsea Wolfe, These Arms Are Snakes, Pelican, Chelsea Wolfe) agreed to take the reins, he does not mix music as heavy as ours for the most part but we knew we needed a unique approach.


What inspired you to opt for a Progressive / Post-Metal approach? Do you feel it lacks representation as a genre?

That is the style of music that we play as a group, and there was no conscious thought about it when it came to style on this record. I don't feel that this genre lacks representation but it is a hard style to pigeon hole, and some people are scared of doing that.


Focusing on the Irish Metal scene, what do you feel lacks in the scene? What could be improved?

Wild West themed metal festivals. (Ed: are there even any Wild West metal bands?)


How nervous was Chris Brennan when recording the music video? What did the public think of the production? Who came up with the idea and do you feel this is a great way to promote Galway, Irish culture and connect yourself with the city?

Chris is the only person i know with the right temperament and bottle to have done this, he was cool as a cucumber and there was a very mixed reaction from the public. We chat a lot of s*** in the van and on the road and come up with all sorts of crazy ideas. Josh came up with that idea while we were recording the drums and bass for "The Crossing" in Limerick. The video does promote Galway I guess, but that wasn't our intention - we just felt that it was most appropriate to shoot the concept in our home town.

What plans does Ilenkus have for the rest of the year and into 2015 besides the tour?

We have plans to write some new music.


Since joining the Euro, do you feel Ireland has gotten worse or better off? What are your thoughts on the euro and E.U.?

It's convenient with the money but Ireland has plunged into recession since joining the Euro. Probably would have happened anyway, who knows?


How do the three vocals differ? Could you explain why you have three musicians covering vocal duties?

They were all arguing about who should do the singing and then the voices in the argument turned from speech into singing and even further into screaming, I was scared but the melodies were soothing.


Individually, what song off of 'The Crossing' is your favorite and could you explain your choice of song?

I don't have a favorite song because i have not heard the record, the lads wont let me hear it.


Finally are there any hello's, greetings etc you wish to send out to friends, family, etc?

No.


https://www.facebook.com/ilenkus
http://ilenkus.bandcamp.com/