Interview with RISHLOO

RISHLOO – "a state of uncontrolled inspiration" – by Mel in Toronto

Deliciously complex music creates beautiful and unparalleled musical landscapes that are made to indulge in. Progressive rock at its finest is created by RISHLOO, "the name came about when attempting to describe a state of uncontrolled inspiration," lead guitarist David says.

Seattle's RISHLOO is comprised of Andrew (lead vocals), David (lead guitar), Sean (bass), and Jesse (drums). The band members are not only inspired by bands like Dredg, The Mars Volta, David Bowie, and Pink Floyd, but also by visual artists. Including painters Zdzislaw Beksinski, and Odd Nerdum, as well as by whiplash contour drawing. All of these influences are evident in the band's current masterpiece 'Eidolon' which is a visual, aural, and emotional treat.

Especially in times of iTunes and mp3s, where mostly songs and not albums are king, it is great to experience a young band taking the time and the effort to develop albums that create such powerful aural landscapes in each song and also in the composition of their albums. RISHLOO's first album, ‘Terras Fames' was released in 2004. The title means "the world's poverty of expression," David says. It is a beautifully composed album which set the bar high for RISHLOO's music right from the start. Their 2007 release ‘Eidolon' shows the band's progression and evolution in sound and being artists as a whole. Eidolon means "a spectre of an idea," David says. "Eidolon is much less reliant on our previous influences," he continues. David and Sean did the album's cover art: "it was inspired by a polish artist who appears on the back of the CD," David says.

RISHLOO's lyrics are written by Andrew and David, who says that as for their inspiration "life experience is a minable resource as well as other art." It is important for the band that their music is open for interpretation. David comments on the content of their songs: FREAKS & ANIMALS is about "a character study of flawed perceptions," about ALCHEMY ALICE he says "we are only here to inspire," ROMANCE OF A DEAD KINGDOM is about the "loss of immediate ideas of false reality," THE WATER IS FINE about "Evian," and NARCISSIST CODE is about "what lurks behind the mirror." About ZDZISLAW, David says with a smile "try google-ing this one and see what you find."

When RISHLOO performs live, David likes best "our common emotion joined into one element. The feelings are unparalleled." Make sure to check out the video on RISHLOO's profile to see them on stage and in an interview.

"In your own words" – ONE on ONE with Mel and David

Mel: What does it mean to you to be an indie artist?

David: It basically just means we don't have the support of a label. Being independent isn't always a state of mind it's mainly a necessity until you get corporate interest.

Mel: What would you like to achieve with your music?

David: We're achieving it. People are feeling it.

Mel: Which artist would you like to record a song with and why?

David: David Bowie, simply brilliant and artistic from the beginning.

Mel: Which opportunities do you see with indieSolo?

David: Independent promotions are very important to indie artists, opportunities so far has been exposure on a new level. We'll see (smiles).

Mel: What is it like to be an indie band in Seattle?

David: (laughs) Not too shabby for us but other bands seem to be scrapping the barrel to get signed by anyone.

Mel: If you could choose any venue, where would you like to perform and why?

David: Well, we have a place called the Gorge. It's a massive amphitheatre that overlooks a cliff. The sound is amazing. That would be a good time.

Mel: Where do you see Rishloo in five years?

David: In yours, and everyone else's, town causing anarchy and mayhem.

Mel: Is there anything you would like to add?

David: We greatly appreciate everyone's support. Independent music and bands rely on fans to get the word out about their projects. If you enjoy their music in any fashion tell people about them because the only way they can continue to create the music you enjoy, is if they get fan support. Anyhow, thank you to our fans who happen to be the most amazing and thoughtful people that we individually have come in contact with. And think for yourself. - RISHLOO

-end

November 29, 2007 by Mel in Toronto [Melanie Schade]

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