Brisbane symphonic metal outfit Seraphic have just released their new single 'The Monster Within'. In this brand new single, Seraphic build upon their core, quintessential instrumentation - soaring soprano vocals, lightning guitar solos, memorable melodies and keyboards as a driving melodic force - but the addition of more prominent rhythm guitar grooves and harsh vocals cements the framework for a stronger, darker and more modern take on traditional symphonic metal.
Tomatrax caught up with Raouf from the band to ask a few questions.
You've just released your latest release, how does it feel to have it out?It feels great! We released our debut album just over a year ago, and we couldn't wait to release more music. We feel that 'Monster Within' helps usher us into the next phase of our songwriting. We're pretty happy with the response to it so far.
What made you pick 'The monster within' as your latest single?It was the first song we wrote after releasing our debut album, and it was quite a collaborative effort. Honestly, it was one of those songs where everyone just clicked, and as a result I think we have a refined and tight song. We got so excited that we just wanted everyone to hear it as soon as possible!
You said that 'The monster within' was written while going through a dark time, is it hard to have something that personal on show for everyone?Sam, our vocalist, wrote the lyrics, but I think for me, it's a song that has themes a lot of people can relate to. I see no harm in exposing yourself to the world through music, and if anything, I think it shows everyone that it's ok to be honest. Everyone experiences difficult moments in life, and writing music this personal is a way to express yourself and connect with people who might be going through a similar thing.
You've received a fair amount of acclaim for your previous work, does that make you feel any pressure going forward?Not really. For me, I always want to improve. The next song must be better than the last, so I think if there is any pressure it's mostly self-inflicted. I'm just incredibly happy that our music is appreciated, and I can't ask for more than that. Over time our music will naturally evolve, so I'm hoping that our listeners will keep the same appreciated.
Are there any plans for another album release?Yep, for sure. We're currently working on album 2, which 'Monster Within' will feature on as well. We've completed 3 songs already, and have a full album's worth of material to polish yet. Hopefully a mid-late 2019 release is on the cards.
You'll be playing a few shows next month, what can fans expect from your show?We'll be throwing a lot of energy, as we usually do! But we'll also be playing another new song at our single launch on October 12, and most likely have another song premiere before the end of the year.
Where did the name Seraphic come from?The name is derived from a "Seraph", and is essentially considered an angelic or celestial being. We feel the name represents the style of music we try to create.
Do you ever listen to your own music?Quite often! I especially listen to our music after we've just recorded it, then I listen to it so much I leave it for a few months before going back.
What other music do you listen to?Quite a variety. I love prog metal and melodic metal in general, but my metal upbringing was handled by bands such as Slayer, Megadeth, Cannibal Corpse, Arch Enemy. These days I enjoy bands such as Leprous, Karnivool, and other similar prog rock/metal acts.
What do you have planned after your upcoming shows?We'll be continuing songwriting. We hope to begin recording the album early next year. Aside from that, more shows!
Seraphic's new single "The Monster Within" is available online now for streaming and purchase at Spotify, iTunes/Apple Music, Amazon, Google Music, Deezer and Pandora and tickets for their single launch are on sale now at Woolly Mammoth's site, Tickets for Halloween Hysteria are available at Oztix and tickets for Kamelot's show are available at Oztix as well.
SERAPHIC - MONSTER WITHIN SINGLE LAUNCH SHOW FRIDAY OCTOBER 12 - WOOLLY MAMMOTH ALEHOUSE
WITH SUPPORTS AMICABLE TREASON, ELKENWOOD & DARKLORE
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SERAPHIC APPEARING AT HALLOWEEN HYSTERIA ALONGSIDE THE BENNIES, KING PARROT, DROWN THIS CITY & MORE
SATURDAY OCTOBER 27 - JUBILEE HOTEL
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SERAPHIC SUPPORTING KAMELOT MONDAY 3 DECEMBER - THE TRIFFID, BRISBANE
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