Interview: Siren’s Rain

Recently, DutchMetalManiac’s Tim van Velthuysen interviewed Siren’s Rain.

Hey, how are you?

We are great! Living in weird times, and still here! 

Can you tell us something about the history of Siren’s Rain?

Rena and Will (vox and bass) formed the band in 2014. We did not play live until the very end of 2015, and took off in 2016. The band has seen a variety of different instrumentation over the years and we take pride in our ability to adapt. You will find key elements with each album, and you will also hear the evolution of the band’s sound. 

For people not knowing Siren’s Rain (yet), how would you describe your music yourself?

We are folk metal! This means that we have a very layered, almost orchestral sound, and instrument placement is very key. We compose in a way that honours and features the folk instruments and vocal lines, but in a way that is clearly at its core metal. Folk metal combines traditional folk instruments such as harp, violin, hurdy gurdy, mandolin, etc, and nestles them into it.

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

That changes album to album. If you asked this about our last album, we would say Nightmare. For the new album, Rise Forth, we think that Keepers is a good first impression. 

What makes Siren’s Rain unique?

Folk metal is such a huge umbrella term and there is a lot of diversity under that label. There are bands that use more jigs and reels then there are the bands that have a more Viking feel to it. We pay attention to craft each song with care so that each song is its own different experience. If you listen closely, you can hear that our bassist is a prog bassist, and that one of our guitar players is very much inspired by Iron Maiden. We have an interesting blend of influences that on paper may not go together, but in composition they fit well. 

Any future plans you can already tell us something about?

Our main goal is to tour Europe. We have been planning for a year and then COVID occurred. We have not given up on that goal yet. 

Any upcoming gigs for Siren’s Rain? Maybe coming to The Netherlands?

We have a few shows planned in the US for Fall 2021. Although things are opening up, it is still challenging with the shifting variants and rising COVID cases. Large tours have been booked and cancelled. 

How do you think your life would be without music?

It would be not worth living. Music gives life meaning. Without art and music, life is pointless and unbearable. 

What advice would you give to young and starting bands?

There is so much to do and so much to learn in terms of social media, video, recording, etc. Assess what skills and talents you have in the band, and delegate tasks. Figure out what you can do in house, and then what you need to pay professionals for, and/or learn new skills. Ask for help. Listen to podcasts. Evaluate the sources of your information and trust your gut. 

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

Thank you so much for checking us out! Please listen to us on your favourite platform and follow us on social media! Keep it metal, keep it folky! XOXO Siren’s Rain 

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