Time for the next edition of Metal Anarchy’s “new music showcase,” the feature where I introduce you to bands that readers of this site may find interesting. This time I have an exclusive Q&A with Her Despair.
METAL ANARCHY: Tell me a little about your band:
HER DESPAIR: We are HER DESPAIR – a six piece gothic rock band based near London UK, formed 2015. We comprise of myself, J, singing, Dan and Jord playing guitars, Vikki on bass, Lee behind the drums and Toby on keyboards. In 2015 we released our debut album “Hymns For the Hopeless,” followed by 2018’s “Mournography” EP.
November 22nd of this year sees our most exciting release yet – “Exorcisms of Eroticism.” There are two songs available online now entitled “Pandaemonium” and “The Exorcism” (which includes a superb accompanying music video, directed and filmed by Scott Chalmers), both of which come as instant downloads upon pre-ordering the release from our Bandcamp.
METAL ANARCHY: Who are your main influences?
HER DESPAIR: The singular main influence has always been, and will inevitably always be, the Sisters of Mercy. Since the moment I first heard them, music as a concept was utterly redefined for me. Other key influences would include Nick Cave, HIM, My Dying Bride, and a (possibly) surprising amount of punk rock.
METAL ANARCHY: What is your latest release and why should readers of this site check it out?
HER DESPAIR: “Exorcisms of Eroticism,” coming 22 November 2019, is the dark and dramatic collection of six new gothic rock anthems from HER DESPAIR. Designed to unravel the mysteries of the theologic and the erotic, each song is set to a storm of symphonic instrumentation; providing the perfect soundtrack for your sorrows.
We could not be happier with this forthcoming release. It very much continues on the styles and themes we have previously explored, but develops them much further. There’s more orchestration, everything sounds much bigger, and generally we feel they’re the best group of songs we have composed yet. We are confident that our fanbase will really enjoy it, and sincerely hope it also draws new people to the band.
“The Exorcism” and “Pandaemonium” have been exceptionally well received, and so far the press reviews have been very positive (except one, which absolutely crucified us). We’re really looking forward to seeing what kind of reception the release gets when it’s available.
METAL ANARCHY: What can people expect when they go to your live shows?
HER DESPAIR: Our live shows have always been suitably representative of our music, with heavy use of smoke machines and intense lighting. We’d encourage everyone to come and see us perform – our audience is usually a fairly diverse mix of individuals. We play goth music, but through the lens of punk. Our songs are sometimes slightly faster or “heavier” than some of our peers within the gothic scene, and that comes across on stage. It’s difficult for some of us to stand still when we’re performing.
METAL ANARCHY: Where do you see your band heading in 5 years?
HER DESPAIR: Record deal and world tour, if we’re lucky…
Metal Anarchy 
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