Interview with Xilla
Tell us about your latest release: the main concept; what fans should expect; what were/are your goals with it:
‘Distant Minds’ is a collection of 10 songs that take the listener on a journey that demands you to strap in and be part of the experience –this really isn’t elevator music!
We wanted to write a collection of tracks that really connect with the listener and hook them in. The main concepts running through the album is the human condition – we like the listener to come to their own conclusions on things.
The album presents a unique combination of shifting time signatures, melodic textures and massive vocal hooks, Xilla have created a collection of complex, ambitious songs to engage with audiences everywhere.
Main goal with ‘Distant Minds’ was to present the band in the best way we could – to really show people what Xilla was all about!
Did you have a specific sound in mind when you formed the band, or did that grow and evolve as you played together?
We didn’t have a specific sound in mind, just to make something memorable that other people would enjoy and that we would buy as fans of music! Every band has influences which is healthy but the Xilla sound just grew and evolved with experience – playing together live and honing our songwriting skills.
How does your writing process normally work out?
Its a combination of jamming in the rehearsal room and then taking the best bits and honing the parts in the studio. Every member contributes to the writing process which usually starts with a riff or vocal melody idea.
What are your ambitions and how far do you want to push your band?
We really believe in what we do so we want to do more of it! Ultimately it would be great to grow the size of the band to a big headline act in as many countries as possible!
What are your influences/musical references and the impact those same influences had in your sound?
We have a ton of influences, everything from Pink Floyd to Alice in Chains to Radiohead – it all has some influence in our sound but we’re constantly trying to put our own spin on things to stand out as something different.
What’s next for you?
Pushing the album ‘Distant Minds’ by getting out on the road – see you down the front!