Stephanie Luzie ¡V Lead Vocalist
1. For new listeners, how would you describe the Atargatis sound?
You can describe our music as a mixture of atmospheric sounds and orchestral lines completed by powerful guitars. We have groovy as well as aggressive, though mostly very melodic parts, alternating with gentle, solemn passages, to achieve a mystical touch. Last year w e started to complete our sound by using more classical instruments like the violin, piano and celli.
2. There is a new album in the works, what can you tell us about it?
Well, after our latest release ¡§Wasteland¡¨ last year we're now in studio again. It's actually a new full-length concept album that we work on. The record is being produced in the ¡§Helion Studios¡¨ in Munich again, as we have been very content with their work on our previous releases . On the new album we continue to follow our line concerning sound and songwriting, and we also think that we have improved our work.
3. What will be the biggest differences between the new album and your last record "Wasteland" ?
Well, the biggest difference might be that we are going to put more attention to the orchestral and symphonic sound by recording more real violins and violas, but also uncommon, oriental instruments. And you can look forward to find new guest musicians on our new release. Oh, and it will be the first time that we do a cover version.
4. What do you think is the most unique thing about Atargatis?
The well balanced combination of orchestra and synths with heavy and aggressive metal riffs and with the various soprano and alto vocals are the main elements of the unique sound of Atargatis . Each song has its catchy elements and is based on this recipe, and of course our heart for playing and singing completes our music.
5. Describe the song writing process for the band.
First, a band member comes up with the initial basic ideas or a structural draft. Then in our rehearsal room we work out a coherent concept to bring the song into its right shape. Afterwards we take time to complete the details and choose various sound examples and the application of different instruments.
6. For fans coming to see you live, what can we expect from your show?
Well, our stage performance might resemble a colourful ceremony in a darkened atmosphere of light and fog, powerful and energetic as well as mystical and haunting. In my eyes it's a unique event you should watch by yourself! As an additional highlight, violinist Tialupa joins us on stage from time to time to perform selected songs with us.
7. What do you feel is most important when performing live?
To have fun and to rock!
8. Is there any certain show you enjoyed the most?
The festival shows (for example German Wave Gothic Festival (WGT), Female Metal Voices Festival in Belgium) are our faves ¡¥cause it's always a great experience. We all enjoy the special atmosphere of a festival - especially the open air shows!
9. What is the overall goal for Atargatis this year?
To release our new CD in October 2007 and promote the new album with an European tour afterwards. We're looking forward to having our release distributed more widely and thoroughly, also in America and Asia. We will be trying to enter rotation on different airplay and internet radio stations. Additionally, we're planning to make a video.
10. What do you hope fans get from your music?
We hope they will be entertained, rocked, that they feel inspired by us carrying them into worlds in their imagination they never thought they existed!
11. Is there any particular Atargatis song you feel best defines the band?
For instance ¡§Selina ¡V Widow of the Moon¡¨ is a good example for our sound. The song introduces the most important classical elements an Atargatis song is made of. ¡§Selina¡¨ consists of orchestral figures and also catchy melodies. It's one of the songs our listeners like the most.
Furthermore, the song ¡§Angels Cying¡¨ seems to be an ¡§Evergreen¡¨ for the fans. It shows our wide range from slow balladesque to fast and heavy parts, has imaginative melodies and features powerful dialogues of the singers in the band.
12. What does being in the band mean to you?
Next to our families it's the main thing for all of us. We enjoy to live out creativity and express ourselves by writing our own music. For me it means expressing myself by making new melodies and writing down the lyrics or to create a new concept. Yet when we enter studio to record our ongoing CD, we already have plans in mind for a next album and start thinking of new concepts. Music seems to be an elixir ¡V as well as for the songwriter as for the listener.
Combined with keeping contact to our listeners and playing many gigs, and it's a perfect combination!