1. For those who have never heard of you, can you tell us a little about the band?
The band started in 2018 with Enzo Velásquez on guitar and bass, Hermes Leiva on drums, and J.V. on vocals. In 2019 we released the Demo Rehearsal and the EP El advenimiento de las pesadillas perpetuas. In 2025 we released our first full-length album, Onírica evocación de las auras condenadas, under the label Oratorivm Records. For this album, the band experienced a lineup change: J.V. left the group and B. Barrantes joined as a session musician on bass and vocals.
2. You recently released your first full-length; how does it differ musically from your previous EP and demo?
The songs on the full-length were more thoroughly developed compared to the previous ones. In fact, there was a process of at least three years in which we worked on each track individually.
3. This is also your first release in 6 years, can you tell us a bit more about what was happening during that time?
We were mainly composing and rehearsing. On the other hand, there was a break due to the pandemic. The mixing and mastering process was also slow, since B. Barrantes lives in Santiago, and we (Enzo and Hermes) are from Punta Arenas.
4. Some of the new lyrics deal with necromancy and astral travel. Are you interested in these practices?
The lyrics revolve around the dream realm, with nightmares as the central theme. We also explore astral and spiritual elements, as well as the mysteries that lie between reality and the unconscious. There is obviously an interest, and we feel that it is a deeply compelling subject—the world of dreams is an immeasurable mystery.
5. What are some other lyrical themes and concepts the band has explored so far?
Nightmares, the unconscious, oneiric experiences, and astral-spiritual aspects are recurring topics in our lyrics.
6. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name "Somnvs Mortis"?
Somnvs Mortis means “The Dream of Death” in Latin. It is the central and overall idea of the band.
7. Can you tell us a bit more about the artwork featured on the new album cover?
The cover was created by our friend Mauricio Bonacic. It is titled Parálisis del sueño III, and he describes it as the desperation of a mind lost with no return in an eternal nightmare. It directly relates to songs from the album such as "Funesta evocación del ensueño astral", "Parasomnia", "Desarmonías de los Sueños Muertos", among others.
8. Has the band played live or are you open to the idea?
Yes. Our live show is characterized by being dark, contemplative, and hypnotic. So far, we have been satisfied with our performances.
9. On a global level, how has the response been from black metal fans to your music?
The response has been favorable. We are grateful for the support of zines like yours—it is what allows the underground to keep growing.
10. Are any of the band members currently involved in other musical projects?
Yes, Enzo is the founding member of the Death Metal band Exanimatvm, and Hermes played for years in the Death Metal band Infernal Doom. Both bands are from Punta Arenas, Chile.
11. Where do you see the band going musically in the future?
We are about to begin composing new material. We let the process flow naturally and in tune with the essence of the band.
12. What are some of the bands or musical styles that have influenced your music, and what are you currently listening to?
Our main influences come from specific works such as:
Mayhem – De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas
Grand Belial's Key – Mocking the Philanthropist
Grand Belial's Key – Judeobeast Assassination
Mare – Ebony Tower
Celestial Bloodshed – Cursed, Scarred and Forever Possessed
Rotting Christ – Thy Mighty Contract
Dissection – Storm of the Light's Bane
Bethlehem – Dark Metal
Darkthrone – Transilvanian Hunger
Emperor – In the Nightside Eclipse
One work that has particularly caught our attention is Atavismo by Invunche.
13. To wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Thank you for your interest in our band. A dark greeting from the coldest and southernmost corner of the world.
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