Behind The Scenes: HellPass - Light In The Dark (Official Video)

In 2021, after a 12-year journey in the vibrant music scenes of Vienna and Salzburg, I returned to Greece, where a new chapter awaited me. Angelos Mouratidis, along with our former drummer and a guitarist, was searching for a singer and bassist to complete their band, then known as ‘Wylde’. My experience with various European bands made me hesitant to engage with the local scene again. However, Angelos's determination, talent, and unwavering love for metal music convinced me to join. This marked the beginning of our adventure as HellPass.

The Evolution to HellPass

As the band evolved, changes were inevitable. The guitarist left, our musical direction shifted, and we rebranded as ‘HellPass’. This name blends the Scandinavian word ‘Hell’, representing an afterlife world in Viking mythology, with ‘Passage’—essentially “The Passage to Hell.” While many humorously connect it to “Help Us,” we see it as a playful nod to our fans’ eagerness to support our journey.

This name also reflects our experiences, often feeling like a “personal hell.” The rich history of Rock N’ Roll and Metal has influenced us greatly. Throughout the ages, complex music has faced scrutiny, being labeled as ‘The Devil’s Music’. In 1984, during a pivotal Senate Hearing, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister defended Metal against claims of inciting violence, helping establish a legacy that continues to thrive today. Our track “Oath to the Metal Gods” pays homage to this spirit.

Crafting “Light in the Dark”

As we began working on our first album, *Gates of War* (October 2022 - February 2023), the creative process was both intense and rewarding. “Light in the Dark” emerged from a vivid dream: a child lost in a dense forest at night, desperately seeking safety as a pack of wolves howls above. This imagery set the stage for a track that speaks to hope and the struggle between light and darkness.

The song captures the tension of the night, with fire symbolizing salvation—a concept that resonates deeply with our human experience. In our music, we wanted to create a Yin-Yang dynamic between Fire and Darkness, reflecting the journey we all undergo. This thematic depth is something we strive for throughout our album.

The Collaborative Process

Within just two months of rehearsals, we generated a wealth of compositions, and the challenge was selecting the tracks that would make it onto the album. The process felt organic and fluid, allowing us to harness the live concert aesthetic we wanted to capture. We aimed for our listeners to feel as though they were experiencing one of our shows, complete with audience interactions and an atmosphere of excitement.

The chemistry among our founding members—Angelos Mouratidis, Alexandros Koliousis, and Vasilis Hyacinth—was pivotal in shaping our sound. Each member contributes unique elements, allowing us to create interconnected pieces that reflect our collective spirit. Once the music’s structure was established, I infused the lyrics with personal reflections and dreams that resonate with our family, HellPass.

A Live Concert Experience

To evoke the feeling of a live concert, we included talking parts, shouts, and singalong moments in “Light in the Dark.” Our fans are our fifth member, and we wanted them to feel integrated into the experience. The energy of our concerts, where audience participation is a key element, informed our recording process.

The final product was a true team effort, involving not only the band but also producers, sound engineers, and technicians, all working collaboratively to bring our vision to life. The result is a track that invites listeners into our world, capturing the essence of what makes HellPass unique.

Looking Ahead

Recently, we had the incredible opportunity to perform at the *Masters of Rock Open Air 2024*, sharing the stage with legendary acts like Judas Priest and Bruce Dickinson. The experience was surreal, as the crowd sang along with us, creating an emotional connection that lingered long after our performance. The festival was a whirlwind of energy, and we can’t wait to take the stage again next year.

“Light in the Dark” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to our journey, our struggles, and our hopes. We invite you to join us on this path as we continue to explore the depths of metal music and the stories that inspire us. Together, let’s embrace the light amidst the darkness!