GODIVA – Hubris

By starrymag | September 29, 2023

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) Godiva’s sound is an intricate synthesis of diverse musical elements, converging to produce a sonic experience that’s both fresh and reminiscent of classic metal. At its core, our music is a harmonious blend of traditional metal aggression and symphonic undertones. This unique combination is influenced by our collective musical history, spanning a wide range of genres, from classical to death metal. As artists, we’re continually evolving, pushing boundaries, and challenging the norms of our genre. Our aim isn’t just to produce tracks, but to craft auditory journeys that elicit deep emotional responses. By interweaving powerful riffs, haunting orchestrations, and thought-provoking lyrics, we strive to create music that not only entertains but also challenges listeners to reflect on the themes we explore. In essence, Godiva’s sound is a musical reflection of our shared experiences, aspirations and thoughts, offering listeners a unique blend of the familiar and the novel.

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) The musical landscape that has influenced Godiva is vast, drawing inspiration from a myriad of bands and genres. From the dark, brooding tones of Samael and Obituary to the theatrical grandiosity of Dimmu Borgir, our sound is a testament to our diverse musical roots. Yet while these bands have provided a foundational influence, it’s our shared experiences and mutual respect as band members that truly shape our music. Every song we produce is a collaborative effort, a confluence of our individual tastes and preferences. This ensures that our sound, while reminiscent of the bands that have inspired us, remains uniquely Godiva. Moreover, as avid consumers of music, we’re constantly discovering new artists and sounds, ensuring our music evolves while staying true to our core identity.

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Media God.”

A) “Media God” is more than a track; it’s a powerful commentary on the complexities of our modern, media-saturated world. In an age where information is abundant yet often misleading, the song serves as a clarion call for discernment. It underscores the immense power that media, both traditional and digital, wields over public perception and belief. This influence, often unchecked, can shape societal values, priorities, and even realities. With “Media God,” we aim to provoke thought, urging listeners to critically assess the media they consume and to recognize the potential dangers of blind belief. Delving deeper, the track also touches upon the broader theme of societal values, contrasting the revered ‘gods’ of the past with the ‘deities’ of today. This juxtaposition serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-shifting sands of societal priorities and the need for constant introspection.

Q) What was it about “Media God” that made it the perfect first single off your album Hubris?

A) In fact, it’s not the first, it’s the third of the album, and the second released this year. While “Media God” is the third single from Hubris, it embodies the essence of the entire album. The track’s thematic depth and sonic richness make it a fitting representation of the broader narrative woven throughout Hubris. Beyond its thematic alignment with the album, the track’s intricate blend of aggressive riffs and melodic nuances makes it a standout piece, showcasing the breadth and depth of Godiva’s musical prowess. Its resonance with fans and its relevance in today’s digital age further solidified its position as a key single. Furthermore, “Media God” serves as a bridge, linking the diverse themes explored on Hubris and setting the stage for the listener’s journey through the album.

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) The visual narrative of the “Media God” video is meticulously crafted to complement and enhance the song’s lyrical message. By juxtaposing religious iconography with modern media symbols, the video paints a vivid tableau of the song’s central theme: the changing face of reverence and belief. While the religious motifs serve as a nod to traditional forms of worship, the media imagery underscores the emerging “deities” of the digital age. Yet it’s essential to note that the religious and political imagery is allegorical, used to drive home the song’s message without promoting any specific belief or ideology. The video is a reflection on societal shifts, emphasizing the changing paradigms of reverence and belief. Each frame, carefully curated, seeks to provoke thought, challenging viewers to reflect on the evolving landscape of belief and the entities that command our reverence in the modern world.

Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) Godiva’s songwriting process is a testament to the power of collaboration. Rooted in mutual respect and a shared vision, our approach to crafting tracks is organic and iterative. Typically, the process begins with embryonic ideas, often in the form of riffs or melodies, introduced by Ricardo Ribeiro or André Matos. These initial ideas set the mood, laying the groundwork for the track’s evolution. As the song takes shape, each member brings their unique flair, ensuring that the final product is a harmonious blend of our individual musical identities. Our vocalist, Pedro Faria, often pens the lyrics, weaving a narrative that aligns with the song’s thematic and sonic landscape. This collaborative approach ensures that each song is a true reflection of Godiva, capturing the essence of our collective experiences, beliefs, and aspirations.

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

A) Being an independent band affords us a luxury that’s increasingly rare in today’s music industry: complete creative control. Every beat, every note and every lyric is a product of our collective vision, untainted by external influences or commercial pressures. This independence ensures our music remains authentic, a true reflection of who we are as artists. Yet our independence isn’t dogmatic. We remain open to collaborations and partnerships that align with our ethos, recognizing the potential benefits of external input. As we navigate the ever-evolving musical landscape, our primary goal remains unchanged: to produce music that resonates with our audience, staying true to our roots while pushing creative boundaries.

Q) What are some themes you explore on your album Hubris?

A) Hubris is a profound exploration of the human psyche, delving deep into the complexities and contradictions of modern society. Through its tracks, the album critiques contemporary values, drawing sharp contrasts with the beliefs of yesteryears. Songs like “Media God” and “The All-Seeing Eye” offer insights into pressing societal issues like media influence and personal privacy. Others like “Faceless” and “Black Mirror” shed light on the challenges of preserving individual identity in a globalized world and the mental health crises plaguing modern society. Each track, while a standalone narrative, is a piece of a larger puzzle, contributing to the album’s overarching theme. With Hubris, we aim to hold a mirror to society, challenging listeners to reflect on the world around them and their place in it.

Q) Which song(s) hold a special significance for you and why?

A) While every track on Hubris holds a special place in our hearts, songs like “Media God,” “The All-Seeing Eye,” “Faceless,” “Black Mirror” and the titular “Hubris” to refer just a few. These tracks, in many ways, encapsulate the essence of the album, touching upon themes that are both timeless and incredibly relevant in today’s world. Whether it’s the power dynamics explored in “Media God,” the introspection invoked by “Black Mirror” or the societal critique offered by “Hubris,” these songs resonate deeply with us as artists. They are a reflection of our shared experiences, concerns, and hopes for the future, making them particularly significant in the broader narrative of

Q) Are there specific songs from the album that you’ve been enjoying playing live or get the best response from fans live?

A) Performing live is an electrifying experience, a chance to connect with our fans and share the energy and passion that drives us as artists. While every song from Hubris has been well-received, tracks like “Godspell” and “Dawn” have elicited particularly enthusiastic responses. The palpable energy, the crowd’s involvement and the shared passion make these tracks truly come alive on stage. It’s a surreal experience, watching fans resonate with the music, singing along and immersing themselves in the experience. These moments, where the line between the band and the audience blurs, are what make live performances truly special, and all songs from Hubris consistently deliver such moments.

Q) What do you hope lingers with audiences that explore this album as a whole?

A) With Hubris, we aim to offer more than just music; we seek to provide a sonic experience that challenges, provokes and inspires. We hope listeners, as they delve into the album, embark on a journey of introspection, reflecting on the themes we explore and their relevance in today’s world. Beyond the melodies and rhythms, we hope our music sparks conversations, encouraging listeners to discuss, debate and delve deeper into the issues we touch upon. In essence, our aspiration for Hubris” is to be a catalyst, sparking thought and conversation, leaving listeners with lingering reflections long after the last note fades.

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

A) Our journey as a band has taken us to numerous cities, each offering its own unique charm and energy. Whether it’s the historical richness of Porto, the vibe of Lisbon, the bustling energy of Ostrava, or the serene beauty of Lyon, and many others, every city adds a unique chapter to our story. Yet, beyond the locations themselves, it’s the fans that truly make these places special. Their passion, their energy and their unwavering support transform every performance into a magical experience. While it’s hard to pick favorites, cities where the crowd’s energy is particularly palpable, where every note is met with roaring applause, and where the connection between us and the audience is especially strong, hold a special place in our hearts.

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) While our primary focus remains on producing music that resonates with our audience, we’re always open to collaborations that align with our ethos and vision. Music, at its core, is about connection and collaborations offer a unique opportunity to explore new sounds, styles, and perspectives. Over the years we’ve been inspired by numerous artists, and the prospect of collaborating with some of them is incredibly exciting. Whether it’s a legendary figure from the world of metal or an emerging talent with a fresh sound, we’re always on the lookout for synergies that can amplify our message and enrich our music.

Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

A) Our musical tastes are diverse, spanning genres, eras and styles. Currently, we’ve been exploring a mix of classic metal legends and emerging talents, drawing inspiration from their unique sounds and stories. Artists like Septic Flesh, with their intricate compositions and orchestral undertones, and bands like Dimmu Borgir, with their fresh take on metal, have been on heavy rotation. These artists, with their commitment to pushing boundaries and their unwavering passion for music, resonate deeply with us, offering both inspiration and entertainment.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) To all our fans, old and new, near and far: You are the driving force behind our music, and the reason we continue to push boundaries and challenge conventions. As we journey forward, we promise to keep delivering music that resonates with you, hoping to share countless more memories, melodies and moments together. And a special word to our American friends, we hope to see you very soon on the road! Thank you all for the support!!!

All Questions Answered By Vocalist Pedro Faria