Interviews: Illuminated Minerva

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the  Progressive Metal band, Illuminated Minerva, from Canada. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that?

Our name comes from the Bavarian Illuminati Handbook, whereas one advances through the ranks, they become ILLUMINATED, then MINERVAL, and finally ILLUMINATED MINERVAL. I just thought of this as a collective idea, us as society obliviously advancing through these ranks… becoming ILLUMINATED MINERVA.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

We didn't specifically set out to play instrumental metal, we just all like playing music together and we all have similar musical tastes, but we also all enjoy our own things. I think that's what makes us a little different, we as a band just let the music happen how it naturally forms.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

Well, Jordon (Drummer) and I (Nathan, Guitar) are brothers, we started writing some songs around some riffs I had written, and eventually, Jordon brought in Matt (Bass) from their band at the time, VERBAL DECEPTION. We eventually found Pat (Guitar), and he joined after that.

4. Each band member favorite band?

Well, I think we all say that we each don't have a singular band, because there's just too much quality music out there! I think all the music we have consumed over the years is what has led us to who we are as musicians today…

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

I think inspiration can emerge from anywhere, and anything. Sometimes it’s a new piece of gear that unlocks many-a-door, or just randomly hitting some notes that work has led to some inspiration. All I know is that you don’t need to really look for inspiration, it’ll find you.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was in January of 2020, at a pub called BorderCrossing. It was a cold Canadian night, but a great time was had by all. Too bad it was the last show probably ever.

7. Where would you like to act?

Hopefully, when live music happens again, I’m sure we’ll be grateful to play anywhere!

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

I think there are many bands we would love to share the stage with… Animals as Leaders, BTBAM, Intronaut… But also to get back out there with our fave local acts too would be great!

9. Whom not?

No one really. We’ll shred the stage with anyone.

10. Any of you has ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

No, not really. We are all pretty outgoing people and we definitely enjoy being on stage. That comes from being confident in our abilities. As for tips, practice makes perfect, the more you face what makes you uncomfortable, the easier it becomes.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Well if we REALLY have to break it down, probably Tool, Deftones, Sikth, YES.. but that's just the TIP of the musical Iceberg.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

No weird ones yet!!! Maybe just a few stoked drunk bro’s but that’s about it! 13. What do you think of your fans? I think our fans are awesome! We really appreciate everyone who comes out to shows and rocks our albums and merch! It means a lot to us that people would give their time and energy for us.

14. What do you think of our site?

I think your site is baller! I enjoy the breadth of metal that is covered and as an artist myself, I particularly enjoy the ARTWORK EXPLANATION part of the site! 

15. Something add?

Thanks for the interview, if you like the prog follow us on all media, and ENIGMA ADAMANTINE will be out on September 25th, 2020! It'll probably be the best part!!!