After recently covering Vesseles‘ creativity under the single “Cathartic Cruelty“, I was excited to take up reviewing this EP in its entirety. I Am a Demon is self-exploration, discover, and darkness. It’s a journey through understanding, turmoil, transformation, and the acceptance both inside and out.
On the EP, project founder Valira comments:
“I Am A Demon goes through the transformation of my identity. It flows from self hatred, to release, ritual and thus transformation, closing on the disconnect between soul and body. Musically there are elements of decay illustrated by a gradual increase in dissonance and unexpected change alongside black metal tropes.”
On the importance of the EP, Valira continues, “[m]usic, in general, has meant a lot to me for many years but this project is on a different level in terms of purpose. I have never had such a strong emotional response to my own music.”
Vesseles (veh-sel-is) is the debut solo project from West Coast Metal veteran Valira (Legion of Grandeur, Among the Torrent, Arcane Existence) who explores identity dysphoria by shedding skin through symphonic black metal. Struggling to fit her host, a Demon living among humankind turns to music for relief before its significance deepens within. After many years, she finds truth in self and the gravity in ensuring she expresses that with pride and sound that shatters possibility. The result? Vesseles (a twist on the word ‘vessel’) that unveils the study of individuality, and what it takes to break the barriers of a human-dominated world.
The first single from the EP, as well as its opener, is the torrential “Suffocating Flesh.” Valira mentions that this track “deals with self hatred and feeling trapped in my body“. It’s a jaw-dropping introduction into this EP’s dark and conflicted journey, with terrifying vocal power and a melody reminiscent of classic Black Metal tunes. There’s tranquility through disillusion, and destruction through misunderstanding. The lack of patience, the inner confusion that mounts through an echo of heavy keys and damning drums is energized by rhythmic guitars and an endless stream of agonizing harmonies. It’s a welcome track that crushes listeners with brutality, but one that’s necessary in explaining growth to an audience that can no longer turn away.
The title track “I Am a Demon” keeps the horror alive with mesmerizing riff work. It’s doom and gloom enveloping realization and acceptance. The inner struggle turns to definition as the transformation is complete. The soul-searching abandons hope and allows for condemnation to become completion in a track that’s as dark as it is captivating. The Black Metal depth cooperating with a melodic undertone feels natural and expressive. At just under 4 minutes it holds the impact and fury that so desperately needed acknowledging and it is beautifully unveiled.
As previously reviewed, “Cathartic Cruelty” unleashes the flesh and bone of this EP, exploring the disconnect between true self and expectation. You can check out the video alongside my full review for that single here:
“Cathartic Cruelty” REVIEW
Following the blood trail is “Wretched” that dances in on a haunting key, painting vivid images of black and grey; the sorrow and rain that held us behind. Performed solely through piano keys, this track’s eerie discord is only amplified, bringing with its symbolism the depth of this EP’s soulful journey. It is an echo to the void, the hollowness felt within when we do not embrace who we truly are, who we are meant to be, and who we wish to become.
“Vesseles Rituale” brings back the intensity, filling the void with dark piano keys and furious drum waves. it’s a cascade of pressure, the mounting emotions that can no longer be denied any further. With a tone that flatters Rotting Christ, this track embraces darkness to its full extent, accepting that perhaps the light is not meant to welcome all. It’s shadowed and enticing, with moments of dread and reflection pulling at our flesh, pushing us forward, yet strangely holding us in place. There is a dance that takes place, one that can only be done solo, as through choir and cries we discover the demons are not against us but mere pieces of a greater whole.
The final track, “Dysphoria” calls to symphonic sound and black metal noise to bring the struggles to the surface. The self-hatred and years of forcing unwanted change to deny our darkness. It’s the battle of flesh and soul, and the mental decay taking its eternal toll. One of the most explosive on the EP, it feels like the homage to the journey, the story of where it all began before the transformation was initiated. A track relatable to many on its musical composition alone, one can easily feel the wave of emotions, the constant search for similarities, for those who may understand, and the mirror image that forces us to wince with every blink. It’s eye-opening and intense, allowing us not only to understand Valira’s reasoning and transformative story, but to take up the fight for our own being – who we wish to become.
This EP’s overall execution is stunning; it’s a transformative journey as a whole yet perfectly understand in each single piece. Every track harbours expressive influence and inspiration allowing listeners to embrace the music, as well as relate to it on a deeper level. There is intricacy and care in telling a self-identifying story, it allows you to not only explore your own decisions, but help others along the way. I Am a Demon is a beautiful display of what it means to take control, to let music guide you in exploring who you are, what you’re capable of, and that you are not alone on your journey. This may be your first step, but for others, the steps may simply need to be taken at a slower pace.
You can snag your own copy of Vesseles‘ I Am a Demon via their Bandcamp. And don’t forget to follow the band on their socials to stay up-to-date on new music, talks, and much more!
Vesseles Socials:
Facebook
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EP band line up:
Valira Pietrangelo – Guitar, Piano, Lyrics, Composition
Adam Rupp – Vocals
Nick Loiacono – Drum Programming
Live band line up:
Valira Pietrangelo – Guitar
Joel Ferry – Vocals
Joseph Serrano – Drums