Self-described as, “very emotional and very philosophic with dark and gloomy music”, Helevorn is exactly that with their latest release, Espectres, out September 13th, 2024 through Meuse Music Records. A melodic and melancholic journey of human topics we all have experienced, this band takes us through the metaphorical muck in the most beautiful way while expressing thought-provoking ideas. This album has created a multitude of feelings and range of emotions you might not even realize you have within you. I encourage you to close your eyes, take a deep breath, and hit play with the purpose and intention to listening to it in its entirety.
Helevorn began in 1999 in Spain and presently consists of members: Josep Brunet (vocals), Sandro Vizcaino (guitar), Alex Correa (guitar), Pedro Sanchez Bonnin (keyboard), and Jose Rubio Rodriguez (bass). They have been able to share the stage with some heavy hitters in the metal world; Draconian, Swallow the Sun, and this writer’s personal favorite. Katatonia.
The album begins with, “Inherit the Stars”, a piano melody and breathy soundscape. It eases into a cascading guitar and slips right into the harsh doom vocals of Brunet. It is such an alluring beginning, it is difficult to not immediately capture your attention and heart. Moving forward, Espectres continues a moody approach with most lyrics in English, but some also in their native tongue, which enriches the experience that much more. It ends with, “Children of the Sunrise”, with an angelic piano and spoken word, turned to softer singing, of children coming into the world and making it a better place. There is a bit of Spanish-style guitar in the middle of this track, then ends with the harsh vocals returning to drive the message home. Absolutely enchanting.
Alex and Sandro were kind enough to sit down with Metal Nation to discuss this release. (If you are viewing from your phone, please scroll to the bottom of the page. and click “View Desktop Version” to gain interview and video access).