Interviews: Stranger Vision

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Progressive Metal/Power Metal band Stranger Vision from Italy. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

Riccardo (Guitar/Keyboards): The name Stranger Vision was chosen intentionally to reflect the idea of seeing the world from a unique and unconventional perspective. We wanted a name that would capture our vision of combining strong musical themes with deep, thought-provoking lyrics. It wasn’t random but carefully aligned with our concept of a powerful, progressive, and lyrical sound​.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Ivan (vocals): Power and progressive metal allow us to blend technical precision with emotional depth. We’ve always been influenced by bands like Savatage, Blind Guardian, Dream Theater, and Symphony X, who balance melody with complex, intellectual themes. This genre gives us the freedom to explore deeper philosophical concepts through heavy riffs and epic vocals​.

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

Riccardo: Yes, most of us knew each other through the local music scene or previous collaborations. We had a shared passion for creating something special, which eventually led to the formation of Stranger Vision in 2019. The band came together naturally, combining our individual influences and experiences​.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Ivan: We each have slightly different influences. I’m a huge fan of Symphonix, loving their mix of power and prog and Russell Allen’s voice. Riccardo prefers the progressive sounds of Dream Theater. Our bassist enjoys modern, groovy vibes like Muse, while our drummer is a big fan of Blind Guardian’s classic Teutonic power metal. Together, we blend elements of Teutonic power and American prog.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Riccardo: Our songwriting is heavily influenced by literature, philosophy, and human nature. With albums like Wasteland, inspired by T.S. Eliot’s poem, and our new project Faust, based on Goethe’s work, we explore themes like existentialism, the struggle for meaning, and the complexity of human emotions. The stories we love become a huge part of our music​.

6. Where was your last gig?

Ivan: Our last gig was at the Evoken Festival in Tokyo. It was an incredible experience and an honor to play alongside some great bands. The audience’s reception was amazing, making it a truly memorable event.

7. Where would you like to act?

Riccardo: We’d love to play more in Europe, especially in countries like Germany, where metal has a huge following. We’ve already had some success there with Wasteland, and we’re eager to bring our music to new audiences. We’re also excited about the possibility of performing in North America and the UK​.

8. Whom would you like to feature with? 

Ivan: Collaborating with Zachary Stevens of Savatage on Poetica, Hansi Kürsch of Blind Guardian and Tom S. Englund of Evergrey on Wasteland, and James LaBrie of Dream Theater on our latest album FAUST was a dream come true. In the future, we’d love to work with more iconic voices and musicians from the prog and power metal scenes. Bands like Symphony X and Kamelot would be amazing to collaborate with.

9. Whom not?

Riccardo: There’s no one we would outright reject collaborating with, as long as they align with our musical direction. However, we prefer to work with artists who share our passion for storytelling, emotion, and musical depth. We wouldn’t want to force a collaboration that doesn’t feel natural or connected to what we do​.

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

Ivan: Yes, it happens to most musicians at some point. For me, the key is preparation and staying connected to the music. If you believe in what you're performing and stay focused on delivering the story behind the song, the nerves usually fade away. Practice helps, but so does remembering that the audience is there to share in the music with you​.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Riccardo: Our biggest influences are bands like Blind Guardian, Symphony X, and Dream Theater. We also take inspiration from thrash bands like Metallica and Megadeth for the power in our riffs, and from classical literature and philosophy to craft meaningful lyrics​.

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

Ivan: One of the strangest requests I’ve ever had was from a fan who asked for my autograph. A week later, they sent me a photo of my autograph tattooed on their back. Honestly, I didn’t expect that, but it was quite flattering!

13. What do you think of your fans?

Riccardo: We’re incredibly grateful for our fans. They’ve been amazing in supporting us, especially with Wasteland and now Faust. Their passion for our music and their connection to the lyrical themes inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of what we do​.

14. What do you think of our site?

Ivan: Your site is fantastic! We appreciate the platform you give to bands like us and the work you put into promoting metal music. It’s always great to see passionate people supporting the metal community​.

15. Something to add?

Riccardo: Thank you for having us! We’re excited about the release of Faust and look forward to bringing this music to life on stage. Stay tuned for more live shows, and keep an eye on our socials for updates! We can’t wait to connect with more fans around the world​​.