Issue Ten- February 2021:

By Mercedes Barreto

Dream Aria is an eclectic Progressive Rock band that blends elements of Rock, World Music, Ambient, Textural, Gothic, genres, and more without restrictive boundaries or rules. 

They’re a bit ‘old-school’ and write within the moment without the use of computers or ProTools. 

Their new song “Valhalla” is about the Danish Viking’s belief in a heavenly realm called Valhalla where brave warriors were slain in battle gather to revel in a glorious afterlife while awaiting the final battle against the forces of evil, Ragnarok. Dying bravely in battle is the only way to gain entrance to Valhalla. 

What do you feel, regarding your music and its meaning, will truly resonate with fans and followers, in this new song?

“I think the song “Valhalla” may resonate with some fans due to a few very popular shows about the Danish Vikings on NetFlix called VIKINGS and THE LAST KINGDOM. I personally drew some inspiration from both concerning their values of honor and bravery. I can see how some fans might also feel those values may ring true for them as well. I think many of us are also intrigued about eras of the past and how people lived back then but also there’s a fascination with anything mythical such as represented in the song. The music is driving, upbeat, almost tribal, and overall, powerful, as well as some of the imagery portrayed in the lyrics. So far the feedback from fans has been positive, remarking on those points I just mentioned. Many have also said they love the retro keyboards mixed in with the more modern instrumentation. There’s even a bit of funk guitar in some sections which keeps things unpredictable and intriguing.” 

 Is there a feeling of complete relief when you hear the absolute remarks of appraisal and gratification from listeners? Or is there a sense of loyalty between fans of Dream Aria, where every song is an instant success and a hit amongst fans? How do fans react?

“As far as the question of “sense of relief” to positive feedback on the song, for us it’s more about just being grateful and appreciative of our fans enjoy the music. And yes although our fans are loyal, they are also honest and will tell us what they like right away or what might take more than just one listen to grow on them. I have noticed time and time again that the fans’ reactions are always that of excitement when we release new material which is always very encouraging and wonderful. We’ve really had no major complaints from them over the last nearly 20 years which is very humbling for us.”

 What describes the ultimate factor or feature of this song, which will most convince a listener to stay tuned on all things Dream Aria?

“I feel there isn’t just one factor about the song that keeps our listeners coming back for more and what may draw in new fans. People have been telling us it’s a mixture of the elements I referred to in the first question. But mainly we’re told it’s the fresh ingenuity and creativity that pulls them in.”

 What do you truly believe is the ideal key part of the song, which separates it from all else, musically? To hear it over and over again? 

“As far as an “ideal key” part of the song, again, I really don’t believe there is just one feature. But in having to name just one, I would choose catchy, melodic phrases in the various sections that get ‘stuck in your head’ and make you want to listen “over and over”. “

What is the message to fans, if they haven’t already interpreted the message in your latest release?

“The message of the song is basically about the Danish Viking’s idea of honor in bravery, especially in any battles. In today’s times, we are fighting all sorts of battles together but also individually which one must step up to with bravery as well. “Fight the good fight”!”