Hi! Can you tell me about SPLENDIDULA? Why did you choose that name for the band?
The band name is derived from Lamprohiza splendidula, the Latin name for firefly. With our music we want to represent the mysterious and peaceful feeling that these insects express when they fly around trees or float over water at night.
Can you tell me more about ‘Behind My Semblance’? What were the ideas behind the track?
The lyrics of "Behind My Semblance" were born from deeply personal experiences we've endured over the past few years, including several painful losses. Often, when people ask, "Are you okay?", there's a strong urge to be truthful and say, "No." But when you’re asked that question repeatedly throughout the day, it somehow becomes easier to respond with a simple "Yes." There's also an unspoken expectation that "yes" should be the answer; otherwise, you risk creating awkward silences or opening up a conversation you may not be ready to have.
The song reflects that while someone might appear happy on the outside, their inner struggles often remain hidden. A smile doesn’t necessarily mean someone is genuinely happy. It might just be a fleeting moment where they’re trying to forget their burdens, but once that moment fades, they might be pulled back into darkness, a reality we rarely see.
Wearing a mask, in that sense, can make it easier to shield oneself from constant reminders of personal demons. This theme of concealing emotions evolved organically as we reflected on the emotional weight many carry while showing a different face to the world.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
Our inspiration comes from a variety of sources, but much of it is drawn from personal experiences and emotions. We reflect on the struggles and darker moments in life, like grief, loss, and the complexities of human emotion, and channel these into our music. Nature also plays a significant role, as its vastness and unpredictability mirror the emotional landscapes we aim to explore.
Beyond that, we find inspiration in art, mythology, which often provide metaphors for the feelings and themes we wish to convey. Ultimately, it’s the rawness of life and the world around us that sparks our creativity. I don’t know if our music would sound the same if life was all about happiness
How would you best define SPLENDIDULA's sound?
Our sound is a blend of heavy and atmospheric elements, combining doom and black metal influences. It’s important to us that the audience truly feels the emotions behind the music.
Who are your main musical influences? How much of an impact have they had on your sound?
Our biggest influences include bands like Rotting Christ, Alcest, Wardruna, Wiegedood, Anathema, Austere, My Dying Bride, and Amenra. They all have, to some extent, influenced our sound, but we always strive to do our own thing and create an original sound.
Is there a particular well-known musician that you would like to collaborate with on one of your upcoming albums?
For our next full album, we were fortunate enough to cross paths with a musician we deeply admire, and the opportunity arose to invite him as a guest vocalist. It felt like it was meant to be, especially since the album is dedicated to a late friend who was also a big fan of this artist. There are many musicians we look up to and would love to collaborate with, but it’s essential that it brings an emotional depth to the music.
What is your personal strategy for getting your music heard by a larger audience?
Through our label, Argonauta Records, we have a collaboration with a promo agency, and we also reached out to an agency from our own country. Besides that we are very active on social media and sell exclusive merchandise on Bandcamp.
Do you have any hobbies besides music?
We don’t have much time for other hobbies. When we do, we enjoy going for walks, watching TV to clear our minds, dining out (with friends). Kristien used to be very into urban exploration, but unfortunately she had to give up that hobby due to a lack of time.
Are you all supported by your families in your dedication to music?
Our families are all very supportive and often come to watch our performances. Kristien and I live together, which makes it easier to still spend a lot of time with each other.
How is the metal scene in East Flanders right now?
Where we live, in Temse, there isn’t a metal scene. Elsewhere, mainly in the larger cities. However, the biggest metal scene is more in West Flanders.