Embarking on an auditory odyssey through the kaleidoscopic realm of progressive metal, Torrington, Connecticut-based Millennia emerges not merely as a band but as sonic architects, sculpting a symphony that defies conventional boundaries. In the sonic tapestry they weave, intricate instrumentals dance in harmonious tandem with potent vocals, creating an experience that transcends the boundaries of metalcore and transcends the limits of progressive metal. Today, we step into the cosmic soundscape forged by Millennia, where every note is a celestial brushstroke on the canvas of musical innovation.
The band is featured on “Progstravaganza: Harmony in Complexity” compilation with their most recent single “Afterglow.”
Getting Started: From Metalcore to Progressive Metal
Millennia‘s genesis lies in a shared passion for metalcore, a genre that served as the gateway to the expansive world of progressive metal. Influenced by groundbreaking acts like Periphery and Meshuggah, the band found themselves captivated by the unique soundscapes these artists crafted. As they delved deeper into the progressive metal sphere, Millennia organically evolved, infusing their compositions with intricate rhythms and expansive arrangements.
Featured Track: Unveiling the Genesis of “Afterglow”
Our journey with Millennia takes a closer look at their featured track on the compilation, “Afterglow.” Originating in 2019 with a different tuning and working title, the band revisited the composition in 2022, adding vocalist Aaron to their lineup. The transformation of “Afterglow” showcases the band’s commitment to evolution, as they explore new territories in vocal melodies and lyrical themes.
Creative Process: Navigating the Depths of Composition
Millennia peels back the layers of their creative process, shedding light on how they breathe life into their compositions. From guitarist Dan Dolecki‘s initial ideas on Guitar Pro to the recent incorporation of vocal-centric writing, the band embraces a collaborative approach to crafting their sound. “Afterglow” stands as a testament to their evolving creative methodology.
Influences: Shaping Soundscapes with Diverse Inspirations
The band members unravel their influences, offering a glimpse into the diverse musical tapestry that shapes Millennia‘s distinctive sound. From drumming grooves inspired by Meshuggah and Rush (drummer Dustin Pfaender) to a love for extended range guitars ignited by Animals as Leaders (Dan), Millennia‘s sound draws from a rich palette of progressive metal influences.
Challenges: Navigating the Road Less Traveled
As a band that doesn’t conform to the traditional path of live shows and extensive social media presence, Millennia discusses the challenges they face in getting their music out into the world. Despite these hurdles, their dedication to exploring different platforms and algorithms highlights their commitment to overcoming obstacles.
Evolution: Progressive Metal’s Ever-Expanding Horizon
Millennia reflects on the limitless possibilities within progressive metal, both for the genre itself and their own musical journey. Embracing new recording equipment and experimenting with tones, the band expresses excitement for the future, foreseeing a continued evolution in their sound.
Memorable Moments: Beyond the Music
In the absence of live shows, Millennia‘s memorable moments stem from shared experiences with people and the introduction of vocals into their music. The success of “Afterglow” marks a pivotal moment in their journey, showcasing the impact of their recorded music on listeners.
Personal Favorites and Upcoming Projects: The Unfolding Narrative
As they share personal favorites and offer a sneak peek into their upcoming full-length album, Millennia invites us to explore the expansive landscapes of their discography, spanning from 2015 to the present.
Compilation Involvement: Sharing Space with Fellow Enthusiasts
Being a part of this compilation holds special significance for Millennia, allowing them to share a space with like-minded bands that share a profound love for the progressive metal genre.
Message to Fans: An Invitation to Explore Millennia’s Sonic Universe
To fans discovering Millennia through this compilation, the band extends a warm invitation to explore their extensive discography spanning 37 tracks. They eagerly await feedback and engagement from those who embark on this sonic journey.
Dream Collaboration and Instrumental Aspirations: Aspirations Beyond Boundaries
The members of Millennia envision dream collaborations with artists like Andy Cizek, Archspire, Johnny Franck, and Olly Steele, expressing a desire to explore new instruments such as the saxophone and bass. Here is what they say in detail.
- Aaron Starr (vocals): Personally, I would love to feature Andy Cizek from monuments on one of our songs. I get a lot of vocal inspiration from his ability to hit powerhouse high notes accurately and effortlessly.
- Joey (guitars): Archspire! Their music is absolutely mind blowing to me. It would be interesting to see how that melding of genres would work. And while I’ve only spoken to Dean Lamb briefly a couple times at their merch stand, they seem like a down to earth group of guys who just genuinely love playing their music.
- Dustin: I would love to get Johnny Franck (Bilmuri) on one of our songs. I’ve always loved his voice. Also I plan on getting my friend Mick Connolly to play on one of our songs. He’s had a big music career and is a very talented guitarist.
- Dan: I would love to write a song with Olly Steele. His playing ability is much greater than mine and I feel I would learn so much from his technique.
Favorite Prog Album and Non-Musical Influences:
Sharing insights into their all-time favorite progressive metal albums and the unexpected influence of memes, Millennia provides a glimpse into the diverse elements that shape their musical universe.
- Joey: That would have to be Tesseract‘s Altered State. They really found their sound on that album. It’s had a huge impact on the way I view music and even 13 or so years later it’s one I still like to listen to in its entirety. It was the perfect balance of technicality, melody, and ambience, and while I still prefer Daniel Tompkins on vocals, Ashe O’Hara did an absolutely incredible job bringing a new aspect to their music with his more harmonic approach to singing.
- Dustin: that’s hard to say, I’ve listened through a lot and had many favorites. Right now, my favorite is Meshuggah’s “Immutable”, but the album that I’ve listened through most would probably be Volumes “Via”. That one had everything I loved in groovy progressive metal, especially when I really got into the genre.
- Dan: I’m not sure I can nail a favorite. Though not metal, We Like it Here by Snarky Puppy is such an excellent showcase of musicianship and musical genius. The Cory Henry, Lingus solo, is one of my all time favorite performances. As far as metal albums go, P2 – Periphery, Altered State – Tesseract, and Wishful Lotus Proof – Jakub Zytecki, are all albums I find myself still listening to.
Non-Musical Influence: Are there non-musical influences that find their way into your music? (e.g., literature, art, science)
- Dan: We have had a decent amount of influence from memes. Before adding vocals to our music, we would sometimes add meme sound clips into our songs.
- Aaron: Most of the time I try to write lyrically about topics that have important meaning to me, such as depression, and anxiety as many people in the world, admittedly or not, struggle with such things, but sometimes I like to paint a picture with how those meaningful topics are written. For example, Solace is a song we wrote about overcoming and actually physically flying in the air to avoid pain and negative feeling down below in whatever form it may take in the listener’s life.
- Dustin: Like Dan said, we tend to add memes whether it’s in the working title, actual track title, or even in the song itself. Something make us chuckle.
Closing Words: A Unique Sonic Odyssey
In their closing words, Millennia emphasizes the distinctive evolution in each release, encouraging listeners to explore the nuances within their discography. The band expresses gratitude for the opportunity to connect with audiences and invites them to share their thoughts.
Connect with Millennia: Exploring Beyond the Music
As we conclude this insightful journey with Millennia, the band extends an invitation to connect through various platforms, including Instagram, Bandcamp, Spotify, iTunes, and YouTube. Engage with their sonic universe and join them on their ongoing musical exploration.
