Vurilanda Interview

 

1. For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the musical project?

Hello. First and foremost, I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Occult Black Metal Zine for granting Vurilanda the opportunity to be featured in this interview.

Vurilanda, the name of our band, consists of two members, Ang and Zul, and we perform Raw Black/Doom Metal with elements of Noise and Ambience. The band's inception was born out of personal frustration with the music scene in my home region of Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, where people were primarily closed off to musical diversity and stuck to mainstream music. Vurilanda emerged, initially playing Raw Black Metal, and has evolved to its current sound. Vurilanda will continue to exist, always remaining unique and challenging the status quo.

2. You have a demo coming out towards the end of September, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

Our recently released Rehearsal Demo 2023 represents our latest output. It's somewhat challenging to label this as a "work" because we view each release as a form of protest or resistance. The recording process was done in a traditional manner, typical of "Raw" rehearsal recordings. We combined tools like smartphones and laptops to achieve a distinct recording, and then handled vocal and mixing processes manually. This recording process also serves as proof that you don't need top-tier equipment to release something. In Rehearsal Demo 2023, we present a different sound and style from our previous releases. You can define it in your own words, but in general, we play Raw Black Metal, Funeral Doom Metal, and Noise.

3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music?

The theme we explored for this release is despair. We observed many individuals and creative souls confined by various factors, limiting their ability to create. This sense of despair is also depicted in the artwork we chose.

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Vurilanda'?

The name "Vurilanda" is derived from the local language, or traditional language of my region in Central Sulawesi, which is the Kaili language. Vurilanda consists of two words, "Vuri," meaning black, and "Landa," meaning dark. These two words can be straightforwardly interpreted as "dark black" or "very dark." However, the essence of the name signifies that darkness has different degrees, and Vurilanda feels like the most appropriate name to describe its darkest level.

5. Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the demo cover?

The artwork used in Rehearsal Demo 2023 incorporates several elements: a logo, an antique photo frame, and a hanging noose. The logo we used this time is different from the previous one, appearing more rooted but still readable. The antique photo frame represents a past memory, a past era that people find it hard to move on from. Additionally, it signifies a restraint on the creativity of those experiencing desperation or similar feelings. The hanging noose can be interpreted literally or metaphorically. It also represents the deepest form of despair. While some may see it as a solution, personally, we don't view it that way. The release scheduled for the end of September also serves as a reminder of World Mental Health Month and World Suicide Prevention Day.

6. Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding the line up or do you prefer to remain a duo?

For now, we're quite comfortable with just two members. Both of us share similar tastes and, most importantly, a shared artistic spirit. Additionally, our vision and idealism align. Although our musical preferences in our daily lives are quite different, sharing the same musical spirit is something very solid for us. However, we don't rule out the possibility of welcoming like-minded individuals in the future.

7. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?

The best performance by Vurilanda so far was at Distorted Holocaust. It not only marked our debut but also represented the beginning of Black Metal and Doom Metal music in Palu, where people have been conservative about embracing new music styles. It was a challenge for us to introduce this music to them.

8. Do you have any touring or show plans for the future?

Yes, at the end of October 2023, in Makassar. More information on this will follow!

9. The demo is coming out on 'Anonim Noise Records', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

Anonim Noise Records, where we released Rehearsal Demo 2023, is a label I run myself. The label's focus is on all things related to Experimental Music, Noise, and Grind. We did reach out to a few other labels before, but we didn't receive any responses. So, we went back to Anonim Noise Records as it was initially established to embrace what was rejected.

10. On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black, doom metal and noise?

So far, we haven't gained much visibility, but that wasn't our initial goal. Among our closest friends, our releases have garnered attention.

11. Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

In the future, we will continue to evolve within our chosen genre. There will be various experiments in terms of musical composition, always with the idealistic goal of creating music as a form of resistance.

12. What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

Some of our influences include Wormphlegm, Bell Witch, Hellish Form, Oak, and Fórn. Additionally, there are other Raw Black Metal bands that have influenced us, but it's challenging to list them all.

13. Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?  

The phenomenon of resistance against mainstream norms is a universal and timeless narrative that transcends geographical boundaries. It represents a collective yearning for authenticity and a willingness to challenge established norms. We fervently hope that this spirit of resistance continues to thrive, offering a platform for individuals to raise their voices against the forces that seek to silence them. It's a testament to the enduring power of music and art in the pursuit of change and transformation.

May there always be individuals willing to speak up for those who have been silenced.

https://anonim-noise.com/
https://www.instagram.com/anonim.gore/