Interview: Grieving

Recently, DutchMetalManiac’s Tim van Velthuysen interviewed Grieving.

Hey, how are you?

I’m great, happy that Songs for the Weary is finally out and so far it seems everybody enjoys our record so that makes us even happier.

Can you tell us something about the history of Grieving?

Sure thing. Grieving started out as sort of a side-project hailing from another band where three of us are playing – Mentor. That band is more about hardcore, black metal, thrash and more extreme stuff like that but on our second album, Cults, Crypts and Corpses, we recorded a song that was more doom-oriented and it was the first time I’ve tried out this kind of clean singing. Artur (guitars/bass/synths) was so happy with the outcome, he suggested we should form a new project to explore this genre even further. And that turned into Grieving.

For people not knowing Grieving (yet), how would you describe your music yourself?

In a nutshell, it’s doom metal worship. We wear our influences on our sleeves and don’t shy away from paying our respects to the forefathers of the genre. At the same time we like to think we’re putting our own little spin on this style as well.

When someone doesn’t know Grieving yet and you can choose one of your songs to present yourself, which song would that be?

I think A Crow Funeral is a pretty good introduction to our band. It’s a mid-tempo track with a lot going on and it displays pretty much what we’re trying to achieve with our music – scare and entertain you at the same time.

What makes Grieving unique?

I think it’s all about the chemistry between people, between their abilities. You can be totally different people when it comes to opinions or views but in certain circumstances you can create absolutely unique and fascinating music together. Then again, a band is a lot like a relationship, it has its ups and downs and constantly requires work to be functional.

Any future plans you can already tell us something about?

We’re in the middle of forming a live line-up and we hope to hit the road with Songs for the Weary in early 2022. I know that Artur is already working on some new music as well so I’m sure there will be another album in store.

Any upcoming gigs for Grieving? Maybe coming to The Netherlands?

We will go where the road takes us. Netherlands would be swell, I never played there yet so it’s definitely on my bucketlist.

How do you think your life would be without music?

Empty, dull and perhaps even non-existent.

What advice would you give to young and starting bands?

Believe in yourself but don’t be immune to crticism – a lot of good things can come from people who may have some harsh opinions for you. If they’re presented in good faith, learn from them. And never stop evolving – remember, you can always be better in anything you do.

Thanks for your answers! Is there anything you want to say to DutchMetalManiac’s readers?

Stay safe, stay happy, enjoy life. And check out Songs for the Weary, even if it’s not the most optimistic record out there 😉

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