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Interview By François Alaouret from the ROCK'N FORCE magazine (English Version)
Date 04 of November 2024
- We know you as Erkyna, aka Hildr Valkyrie, because you already have a substantial career. Before talking about this new MØRKE OG LYS album, I would like you to come back to your musical journey, which began in 1996… Do you also feel like a pioneer?
First of all, I would like to thank you and Rock & Force maazine for your warm interest and time in creating this fascinating interview, which marks my very first for Mørke Og Lys!
Pioneer is quite a weighty title! I can’t say I truly feel like one, as back in 1995-1996, I hadn’t fully realized that creating a band without guitars, bass, or drums might one day become a significant milestone in the Dungeon Synth scene. But let me delve a bit more into my past.
My first band was called Beyond The Forests, consisting of two female members—myself and Natasha "Saturnalia," who was also my best friend. We both played keyboards, and I went by the name "Iris" in the band. Our original goal was to create black metal, but since we were both keyboardists, we decided to craft music that could serve as intros, instrumental breaks, or outros for a black metal album. At that time in Greece, the term "Dark Dungeon Music" was virtually unknown, so we simply described our sound as "black metal without guitars" to convey our vision.
Unfortunately, due to financial limitations, we never had the chance to record professionally in a studio. We were just students, and recording costs were beyond what our families could afford. Instead, we rehearsed at my home, capturing our sessions on cassette by pressing the record button. We did manage two photoshoots for Beyond The Forests, which marked us as Greece’s first all-female Dark Dungeon Synth band. Whether we were the first worldwide, I can’t say, as my knowledge of the early days of the scene remains hazy.
Eventually, we split up to pursue different musical paths in black metal. Natasha joined Kawir as their keyboardist, and I became the keyboardist for the initial formation of Astarte (then known as Lloth), Greece’s first all-female black metal band, contributing to their very first demo.
From there, I joined Nocteriny on keyboards and later reunited with Natasha in nowadays Acherontas, where we both played keyboards until around 1999 or early 2000. My last involvement in a Greek band was between 2001 and 2002 with Ego Drama, but that was short-lived.
After multiple attempts to establish myself in the scene, I faced too many obstacles, so in 2003, I decided to take control by creating a band that I could manage on my own. This decision led to the birth of Hildr Valkyrie, making me the first one-woman band in Greece.
As Hildr Valkyrie, I released three albums: a demo and two full-lengths, all written and composed by me. I had the privilege of collaborating with friends who joined as session guitarists—Alboin from Germany and Aled Pashley from Wales on the first album To Walhall Shall Meet, and Jan "Two Thousand Arrows" from Italy on the second album Revealing The Heathen Sun, where he played guitars and bass, and helped reprogram the drums.
With Hildr Valkyrie, I was also honored to contribute to two tributes for my favorite bands: A Homage to Falkenbach, where I covered The Heralder, and In The Darkness Bind Them (a Summoning tribute), for which I recorded Farewell.
Beyond my personal releases, I have had the fortune of working on many collaborations with remarkable artists and bands, including Uruk Hai from Austria, Morgan the Bard from Italy, Folkearth and Folkodia—the pioneering folk metal collectives—Voluspaa from Norway, Eliwagar (originally from France, now Norway), Elffor from the Basque region, Helrunar from Germany, and Emyn Muil from Italy. One of my latest collaborations was with the talented Andrea from Arcana Liturgia in Italy.
I have also collaborated with Greek bands, including Meneapneontes, Kawir, Kaveiros, Athlos, Sacred Blood, Celtefog, and others.
In 2017, I teamed up with George Golegos to create Solis in Antris, an extreme black metal band. In this project, I provide all vocals and keyboards, while George handles guitars, bass, and drum programming. Together, we released a full album titled The Forlorn Warrior, for which I wrote the concept lyrics.
And this brings us to Mørke Og Lys, a one-woman Dungeon Synth project I launched in 2022. This project explores Dungeon Synth with touches of Atmospheric Black Metal, with three releases so far—all on cassette through the legendary Dark Age Productions. I had also the honor of performing live for the very first time as a solo artist at Dark Dungeon Festival II, an experience I will never forget.
So, from the beginning of my journey in 1995-1996 to today, I appear on more than 70 releases in various capacities.
That was my best attempt at a short summary!
- So you were already present at the end of the 90s and yet you tried many styles like Viking, Ambient, Black Metal, Folk Black to arrive at Dungeon Synth. In hindsight, were all these musical passages necessary to develop and find your style, which leads us today to MØRKE OG LYS?
In a way, I’ve come full circle! I began with Dungeon Synth, journeyed into Black Metal, explored Viking and Folk influences, returned to Black Metal, and ultimately found my way back to Dungeon Synth.
Each genre added unique influences to my personal style, but it wasn’t a matter of necessity. For me, it was a natural progression—a circular movement that reflects my evolving passion for music over the years. As an artist, I find it hard to remain rooted in a single genre; I’m led by feeling and inspiration, wherever they may take me.
- We are also very prolific with this new formation, whose third album you are releasing today, "The Hollow Shadows", after "Lethal Sphere" (2022) and "Orcus Animus" (2023). One album per year is a sustained creative rhythm. Unless you conceived it as a trilogy, because they all three present the same coherence and great homogeneity?
In the world of Dungeon Synth, releasing one album per year feels like a natural rhythm—enough time to allow each release to breathe, while maintaining a steady flow of creativity. Some artists even release two or three albums within a single year, either under one project or across different ones, channeling their inspirations through varied soundscapes and stories.
You could indeed consider these three releases a trilogy, each album adding a new chapter to an overarching tale. Yet, the journey doesn’t end here; a fourth album is already stirring in the depths. There are still so many layers of magic to unearth, so many hidden spells and ancient rituals to reveal. At the heart of it all are the tales of the witches, which I thread through the music and embody in the character of my own witch—a mysterious figure whose name is cloaked in secrecy, never to be uttered. This is the voice that guides Mørke Og Lys, carrying listeners through haunted landscapes and shadowed realms.
- By the way, MØRKE OG LYS is a one-woman band, one of the few in this style. The project is so personal that you couldn’t share it and even carry it out as a band? By the way, you manage the whole thing alone, apart from a few lyrics by Felf Dragon and Shadowkeeper. From composition to mixing, including mastering, you’re involved in every step. Is it important for you to manage the project at every level?
As I mentioned earlier, I wanted to create something serious and enduring, and taking this journey solo felt like the only way to truly achieve that vision.
Yes, I handle everything on my own, though I’m self-taught and learning each step through trial and error. While I may not always achieve the professional standards I envision, I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished. I compose the music, manage the mixing and mastering, and even produce my own video clips, with invaluable help from friends behind the camera. I designed the logo myself and even crafted handmade accessories for my stage outfit.
It isn’t out of necessity that I handle every detail myself—it’s more of a personal need. Ideally, I’d love to work with professionals, but I simply don’t have the financial means to support that. Living and working in Greece presents its own challenges, making it difficult to sustain such costs on my own.
For the lyrics, I do receive help because even my creativity has limits—one brain can only do so much! I’m incredibly grateful to have both Felf Dragon (who also helped for the live show that I gave to Dark Dungeon Synth Festival) and Shadowkeeper by my side. We start by discussing the concept for each song, and I provide them with a framework, then let them work their magic. I can then adapt the lyrics to fit the song as needed.
- Dungeon Synth is a very immersive and surprisingly very narrative style, even if it is essentially instrumental. With MØRKE OG LYS, you also add voices, in Elvish and English, and some rather discreet Black guitars. The style is made of multiple and varied universes, what is yours? How would you describe it and what stories do you tell?
Yes, Dungeon Synth is generally instrumental, occasionally with narrations, but creativity has no boundaries! Dungeon Synth naturally "flirts" with Black Metal, and as a dedicated Black Metal fan whose primary instrument is the keyboard, it felt only fitting to create a Dungeon Synth project with Atmospheric Black Metal elements woven throughout.
Thematically, the lyrics revolve around the arcane ingredients a witch might use in her potions. The first album was dedicated to poisonous plants, the second to toxic mushrooms, and the third explores a unique combination of these elements. Additionally, the second and third albums begin to chronicle the adventures of the Witch of Mørke Og Lys. Some of these tales are spun purely from my imagination, while others are inspired by the rich traditions of European folklore, which is deeply steeped in mysticism and the supernatural.
- What’s also fascinating about “The Hollow Shadows” is this musical richness, because the songs are teeming with details and arrangements. How do you create the sounds you use? You sample a lot, because it’s surprising to see how organic your songs have, while they are mostly electronic?
When I used a traditional keyboard I had created my own sounds which were done by my taste, now with the new equipment which is a midi with vsti, I just use sounds that are carefully picked up, so they can "storytell" the icons I have in my mind!
I don’t force the process; it flows naturally, as it has for years. I find it nearly impossible to stay with just one simple melody. Instead, I build upon the main structure, layering textures and arrangements until the song gives me goosebumps. That’s when I know it’s complete—if it doesn’t evoke that reaction, then I know something is still missing. For me, each song must be an immersive journey with richness and depth.
- The voices are also quite special with spoken, screamed and sometimes even whispered moments offering a great diversity. This comes from the interpretation of the characters played, because your vocal palette is very wide?
When it comes to vocals, I let the emotions and atmosphere of each track guide me. My approach is to bring the lyrics to life through spoken, screamed, and even whispered vocals, creating a diverse soundscape that amplifies the song’s mood. This vocal variety doesn’t necessarily stem from character work; rather, it’s about expressing the essence of the lyrics and enhancing the immersive quality of each piece.
Currently, the storytelling is focused on a single character—the Witch of Mørke Og Lys. Her voice alone contains all the range of emotions needed to tell these tales, from her whispered incantations to fierce cries that echo through the shadows. This approach keeps the narrative simple yet powerful. However, I may introduce more characters in the future; the direction of this project is organic, and I want to let it evolve naturally. For now, I’m fully immersed in the Witch’s voice, but I remain open to wherever the story takes me next.
- “The Hollow Shadows” is very hypnotic and we dive into your universe, as it is so melodic and fluid. When you start writing and composing, do you think about the album as a whole, conceptually?
In truth, I try to think of absolutely nothing when I begin writing and composing. My goal is to empty my mind entirely, freeing myself from any preconceived notions or plans. When I sit behind my keys, I close my eyes and allow myself to drift into the melodies, losing myself in each note and letting the music take shape naturally. It’s a very instinctual process, almost like stepping into a trance.
This approach might be my “little secret,” as you could say, because it keeps my compositions fluid and organic. Rather than consciously crafting a concept, I let the music itself dictate the direction, letting the emotions and atmospheres guide me. Only when I’ve completed several pieces do I begin to see a theme emerge, and that’s when the album’s identity reveals itself.
- We know that you are inspired by the world of JRR Tolkien and that refers, for many people, to the books of course, but also to the films and series. Have you ever imagined and composed your music with a film music approach, for example? We come back again to this narrative side…
I don’t think there’s a single one of us who isn’t at least a little inspired by Tolkien’s world! His work resonates on such a deep level, not only for its stories but also for the vast mythology he created. However, while Tolkien’s world does influence me, I also draw a lot of inspiration from the rich traditions of Europe, which are filled with their own unique lore and mystical elements.
As for a film music approach, I have to say that if I claimed I compose with that intention, it would be a bit of a lie! I’m not naturally inclined to think in terms of soundtracks or envision my music as cinematic. I’m more focused on creating music that captures a moment, a feeling, or a mystical place within my imagination. If I were ever invited to compose for a film, I would embrace the challenge wholeheartedly and adapt my work accordingly. But on my own, I’ve never set out.
- Moreover, to compose Dungeon Synth, which is quite contemplative music, do you have to be (or put yourself) in a particular state of mind, namely calm, even meditative, or on the contrary remain alert depending on the lyrics, for example?
That’s a great question, and it really ties into my previous answer! As I mentioned, my approach is to clear my mind of all thoughts, allowing myself to fully immerse in the world of the melodies. I don’t consciously prepare or enter a meditative state; instead, I just release everything mentally to let the music flow naturally. The lyrics always come afterward, once the music has taken shape.
I don’t have the luxury of a special ritual or preparation—most of the time, I’m composing after a long, 12-hour workday. And sometimes inspiration strikes in the middle of the night; I’ll wake up with a melody in my mind and rush to my keyboard to capture it before it fades.
- I had the chance to see you on stage at the second edition of the ‘Dark Dungeon Festival’ in the magnificent Avouerie castle in Anthisnes, near Liège in Belgium. Besides your music, which is very gripping and captivating, there is also a real staging of the show, a ceremony. What are the meanings of this kind of ritual, because it was very ‘Black’?That’s exactly the atmosphere I aimed to create—a ceremony that would convey the essence of the Witch herself. I wanted the performance to feel like a dark ritual, something that would draw the audience into her world, both visually and musically. The show began with the "Ghost Dance," where I held a ceremonial blade, setting the stage for the Witch’s descent into shadows. This was a way to express the haunting, otherworldly nature of the character, a figure that exists between realms.
Throughout the performance, I sought to embody the images and symbols that had come to me while composing, bringing them to life on stage. Each song reflected different aspects of her journey, whether through whispered incantations, fierce vocals, or the symbolic use of props.
The final ceremonial dance draws inspiration from Ancient Greek rituals, symbolizing the soul’s journey through the underworld—a passage into the depths where shadows and spirits intertwine. It’s a tribute to the Witch’s mystical and ancient origins, as well as to the timeless rituals that bind us to our ancestors. For me, this isn’t just a performance; it’s a powerful form of storytelling that captures the spirit of Mørke Og Lys.
- As I was told, Dungeon requires a solid musical culture, which also extends to fantasy literature and video games, which makes it a niche style. There is a very elitist side to it ultimately. What are, for you, the essential elements to master before starting to compose, because there seem to be a lot of codes?
It’s true that Dungeon Synth, as a genre, often draws from a broad range of influences like fantasy literature, video games, and even films. Many Dungeon Synth artists and fans have a deep passion for these worlds, as they help cultivate the vivid, immersive landscapes that the music itself strives to evoke. There is, admittedly, a certain “elitist” quality to Dungeon Synth—an understanding that to fully appreciate or create within this genre, one must be steeped in these fantasy realms and a certain depth of musical history.
Personally, however, my approach is a bit different. Due to a lack of free time, I can’t immerse myself as much as I’d like in fantasy media or gaming. Instead, I draw inspiration from the myths, history, and traditions that I feel closely connected to, particularly from European folklore and mythology.
- Finally, your albums are released digitally on Bandcamp and also in cassette format by Dark Age Productions, a specialized American label, and in relatively few copies. Is it a real decision that the style remains so confidential and very underground?
I’m incredibly grateful to Bard Algol and Dark Age Productions for believing in my vision and supporting Mørke Og Lys from the start by releasing my albums on cassette. Working with a label so deeply rooted in the underground scene is truly an honor, as they understand the essence and spirit of Dungeon Synth on a profound level.
The cassette format, in particular, holds a special significance within this genre. It preserves that raw, intimate quality essential to the music's atmosphere, and it also reflects the underground, niche nature of Dungeon Synth. Limited cassette releases feel like unique artifacts—personal, collectible, and crafted for those who genuinely connect with this music. In that sense, they become more than just recordings; they’re relics of the genre’s spirit.
That said, I’m definitely open to exploring other formats if there’s interest. In fact, it would be a dream to see my music pressed on vinyl one day. An LP release is a milestone I haven’t yet reached in my career, and I feel that vinyl would bring a new depth and timelessness to Mørke Og Lys!
- Finally, the question that arises, since you produce a lot of music: are you already working on a next album and are there any concert projects as well?
Yes! I’m definitely working on the next album—I always seem to be in a state of creating new music! While I haven’t received any new offers to collaborate with a band, there is a proposal for a split release that I’m really excited about. It’s always inspiring to join forces with other artists who share a similar vision, so I’m looking forward to seeing where this collaboration leads.
Lately, I’ve also been revisiting some of my favorite covers, which brought back my “cover fever”! I recently released three covers on Mørke Og Lys’ Bandcamp page. The first is Summoning’s Long Lost to Where No Pathway Goes, which I also performed live at Dark Dungeon Festival II. The second is The Prologue by Evol, and the third is Son of the Shades by Elffor. All three covers are available for free download on the Bandcamp page for anyone who’d like to listen!
Merci pour cette belle interview et votre temps précieux… votre amie de Grèce.
Merci beaucoup, Madame!
Cheers,
François
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Interview for Killdren Magazine
Interview for Killdren Magazine
Date 2007/08/23
1} First a short introduction to America.
A little background of yourself,the bands your currently in and some past history that you wish to tell.
I'm not good in talking about myself in general, so lets go straight to the second part of the question! The bands I'm curiently in and worked as far with them are: the main bands Hildr Valkyrie (my own project), Folkearth (worldwide) session Uruk Hai (Austria) and Voluspaa (Nor), Guest appearence to Sacred Blood (Gr), and a really small part to Athlos (Gr)... maybe I will do session vocals to another band from Belgium... still I've got nonews from them, only that they asked me to do for them session vocals and got my accept... so I can't announce the name of this band; for the time!
My past is also so fruitful like my present, I've been involved with bands since '95, so you can imagine till 2003 -that I created Hildr Valkyrie- I've changed lots of bands, the bad to this story is that I've lost much time with them, since we didn't do any album, we've just recorded 4 demos all in all!
2} Tell us a brief history of your name and why it was chosen?
Searching for a name I'd started to read more about the Valkyries... and I chose Hildr Valkyrie.
Hildr's story can be found at The Prose Edda. They call her cruel (because she was the reason of the everlasting battle between her husband and father) but in my opinion, she didn't wanted to disappoint non of her beloved and involved persons to this battle. Thy personal connection that has to do with me; I prefer to keep for myself, this part becomes too personal, but it is not that obvious as many might think!
2} Tell us a brief history of your name and why it was chosen?
Searching for a name I'd started to read more about the Valkyries... and I chose Hildr Valkyrie.
Hildr's story can be found at The Prose Edda. They call her cruel (because she was the reason of the everlasting battle between her husband and father) but in my opinion, she didn't wanted to disappoint non of her beloved and involved persons to this battle. Thy personal connection that has to do with me; I prefer to keep for myself, this part becomes too personal, but it is not that obvious as many might think!
3} Life growing up in Geece, the musicians and people that influenced you?
There was no Greek Musician that infueded me in all those years. My main influency is coming from Germany, from the one man band Falkenbach. Vratyas Vakyas (Falkenbach) who was and is my mentor! Also he was the reason that I followed this music genre since Falkenbach was and is my favourite band since 1996. Some fans calls me the female Falkenbach and this is a big honour, even if I found it over rated! I do not think that I can reach the talend of this man.
4} After reading your last bulletin on myspace about Deceitful Fate being illegally released. How should young and unknown bands/artist best protect themselves from pirates regardless of which country they might be in
I really don't have an idea as long I am myself an underground indipendant band with no protection... a good way that I've learned after some conversations that I had with other musicians, is to sell my copyrights to a good label that has good lawers and do the job for me... or else I'll need a good lawer myself, thing that I can't afford it for the time! It is the only thing that I didn't wanted to happen, cause; I wanted to keep the Deceitful Fate limited to have a meaning for those who supported me back then! Also I do not like ripping off my fans because in nowdays, it is so easy to get an album from the internet, it doesn't need more than 15 min to get a full album... and those who wants to support the artist give their money for it and I respect that a lot, but in that case, the money does not go to the artists budget, but to the thieves pockets... so just in case... if you find it to a store or e-bay with not the original cover... don't buy it!... yeah, the thieves were so "kind" to create a new layout as well!
5} On the 2 Folkearth albums, which songs did you perform on and what songs best captured you unique vocals and what songs have the most meaning to you?
From the second album the tracks was: The lady's gift, Naglfar set sail, Return to Walehalle, Heathenpride, Elves and Sailing of a Viking. I think that each song has eachowns meaning to me, for example for the Lady's gift, was a big honour to be a part of a Forefathers track, for Naglfar set sail...I did it together with my "partner" for that album and spend some hours till to have a good result, To Return to Walehalle the music was mine...so it is one of my children, to Heathenpride...I was the reason to cover that song with Folkearth and collected the musicians that could handle that task, for Elves, helped out with my keys...and for Sailing of a Viking...we were having ancient Greek lyrics...so as you can see, for each song I did participate, there is some reason to be proud of!
Also for the third album, some of the songs are: Hugin and Munin with Hordak, Sworn to the raven, Great Pan God, Drakkars in the mist, Midgard Farewell, De tause fjell, If I should fall, On wings divine, Thunders of war...Hugin and Munin was one of my fav tracks of this album...I may had a small part on this track, but I loved it...to Sworn to the raven and to de tause fjell I didn't only sang, but also did the programing of the drums..so plus another reason to be proud of those 2 tracks..also for De tause fjell, I sang in Norwegian... a task that I had to pass and not fail! Also I can't simply not to mention Drakkars in the mist that I had the chance to sing with one of the most talented (in my opinion always) singer in Greece!
6} How did you get involved with the Falkenbach tribute ''A Homage to Falkenbach'' and how was the experience and the response to it since its release?
When it was the semi-official falkenbach site running, the webmaster of it, had the idea of making a tribute. I was checking that period often the site for Falkenbach's news and saw that they were searching for bands. I mailed the webmaster and send him a cover that had already make from my first release (the instrumental Baldurs Tod)...he liked it and agreed to put it into the tribute so my place was sure to that cd... since it was belayed, I had the chance to make other cover that would have also contained lyrics inside because the first one was an instrumental... and so it happen. Later, I've learned that if the tribute didn't had the Heathenpride, the When Gjallarhorn will sound and the Heralder... probably it would never be released... so I took another time the chance to create 2 of the 3 tracks that were needed for that tribute, and thats why I was the reason that I already told before for the Folkearth cover. I took in my hands the risk to make a long track, not so popular (because was a bonus track to the LP of this album and once it appeared to a cd with Various artists of the labels that Vakyas Vratyas was back then) but also so good one... with female vocals, in the meantime I had met my session guitarist and he agreed to help me to this track as well... and so, the result is what you are able to listen.
After the release and the huge long awaiting of that tribute, I think I got my payment back, by the love of the fans that mailed me, or voted me, or opening forum topics about Hildr Valkyrie or telling good words to the reviews specially for my cover and still I have many mails to my myspace music page about that!
7} Your solo project is there any future plans at the moment? And where can people legally get this music?
Of course, now I'm on the final stage of releasing the new album! For the time I can only quarrantee myself of buying it legal since still I do not know to whom I will give copies for distribution... in case I'll have legal sources for buying the new cd, I will mention them to my site and myspace music page, so all can be happy and fight against the nowdays piracy!
Just in case, I have no problem with those who will decide to get it as mp3's from the net, but be careful, cause some sites charges and I have no relation with that... try to find a total free way to get it. I support the free downloads.
8} Any last words you'd like to say to America's metal community?
I simply would liked to thank all of you because you supported me and still do in nowdays! Enjoy life, enjoy good metal sounds, enjoy the good and the bad moments that fate brings to us and drink lots, lots of good beers!
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Odin Lives Radio Interview
Interviewed by Roger
Date 2007/07/24
Odin Lives Radio Interview
Interviewed by Roger
Date 2007/07/24
1) When did you start learning and playing music?
Well, actually I come from a family of musicians, so as far as I remember myself I am into music. Of course only as an amature since my studies were only for one year at the age of 5. Furthermore, my grandpa and I were always having fun together while he was playing his violin. He also tried in his own way to teach me music, using several ways, sometimes right ones, sometimes... wrong ones!
2) What are your favorite musical groups, and how did they influence your musical path?
First of all and over all my biggest influence is the one man band Falkenbach. Vratyas Vakyas was and is my mentor I may say! Also he was the reason that I followed this music genre since Falkenbach was and is my favourite band since 1996. We have many similarities I think; that is at least what I get from my fans. Some call me the female Falkenbach and this is a big honour.
3) How does the Heathen/Asatru pathway influence your music and life?
It has a big influence on me I must admit. In my opinion, it is a way of life that reflects our daily life, our activities and character.
First of all, it has made me a stronger and more honourable person. It has also helped me find the answer to some questions, which I had since I was young, about our European heritage. Of course, it is very difficult for me to read fast since I was born and raised in Greece and there are no translations in Greek by any Author. As a result, I have to do the translations by myself and also try to find out the main meanings of them, which sometimes is hard to do since the grammar is not the same. This of course doesn't stop me at all, instead, it gives me more strength to go on.
As far as my music is concerned, yes it did affect it as well and gave me also lots of inspiration. I feel very nice when I see that my efforts, -because that is what I do, nothing more than an effort- are supported and accepted by people. Even with my poor vocabulary I touched people's hearts with my lyrics and melodies and that is an honour, no; something even bigger than an honour!
4) Will you be playing with any bands in the future, or staying as a solo musician?
I am already a member of many folk/viking and medieval bands. I am a permanent member of Folkearth, a Folk/Viking worldwide band in which I do the vocals, I play the keyboards, do some of the drum programming and I also give music since the second album. Moreover, I am a session member of Uruk Hai, which is a Tolkein inspired band from Austria in which I do the female vocals and we released the album Lothlorien.
Furthermore, I make some session or guest appearances in other bands such as Sacred Blood from Greece, and also I gave my word to some bands from other countries such as from Germany, Norway, Wales and Belgium. Of course I still can't announce the names of these bands, since we have nothing to present to the public even though some recordings are already done. So when we have the releases , then I'll have a reason to talk about them as well.
For the time being, I have no problem to work with all of them and have my one woman band at the same time. Of course this causes a big delay in my own band, but I don't care that much as long as I do what I love to do! For me, singing for example to Folkearth is the same as singing for my own band.
5) Do you have any upcoming cds on the way?
Of course. I had a big delay since I worked and work hard for my other bands as well. My new release will be called "Shield Brothers of Valhalla" and it is a kind of a remake of "To Walhall shall Meet" which was a rough version just "for my ears". This version was spread only via internet by a sort of a mistake a good friend of mine made... those things happen nowadays, but I do not mind at all.
It will contain 8 or 9 songs and one or two covers which will be my small surprise for those who support me. This release will be a bit more metal than the first one, since the electric guitars are not from my keyboards anymore, but they are played by a session member and a good friend from Germany. Also the vocal parts will be clearer than the first ones, since I got better equipment in the meantime. Each song will have it's own identity like my previews release. Again for another time I did not use a real studio for my recordings, but I recorded it and did the production at my home studio just like every recording I do. For me it is better because nowadays even the worst singer or musician can be good with the help of a professional sound producer. In my case everything you will listen... is what I can really do without the help of an expert. In my new album also, I will have two guest musicians, one for a small part on vocals and the other one on acoustic guitars and electric guitars in my little...tinny surprises.
For the time being 90% of the material is done and I'm waiting for my new logo from Christophe to finish my lay out and when it's ready... I will slowly release it.
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Interviewed by Dionysios Platanias
Date 2006/04/19
It is something more than a pleasant for someone, to see musical actions from Greece, that touch with sensitivity Mythology with such a way, not like pretended.
The epic/folk genre in music, it is the most properly media to act out the ones which I said before. Hildr Valkyrie with her first two demos, seems that she can carries it out with a strength which she is able to amazed you.
I decided to “locate” that woman and talk for a while for her work and her attempt to stand alone to the epic/folk music, having already a major “previous employment” of experience to music such as you can read to her website
D.P. When I first heard your work, was fascinated onto the subject: its more than unique and surely a nice surprise, when someone watch a Greek artist to create a concept, which is based onto mythology of the North. Which is also related to the Greek. (I can say that both are “blood brothers”.)
H.V. First of all I would like to thank you for your nice words and to tell you that I feel honored! I agree with all that you said before, and that was the main reason that made me to study the North. Reading Greek mythology and parallel the North, you can see extremely commonalities, which does such an impression that makes you think deeper…
D.P. All your tracks of “Deceitful fate” and “To walhall shall meet”, moreover that your lyrics consider with the Norse mythology, having strongly influences (talking only about the music) of Greek folk culture such is preserve until today, or from music or from our national collective conscious. This was something that you did by willfulness from your side, or the “marriage” of the Greek elements with the Viking ones came unaffected?
H.V. Seriously it came out unaffected…I never make rules to my imagination…and this I believe should be the main characteristic of the subject “music”. Now you are going to think about that I didn’t grow up with folk songs of Sweden, Irish etc and that it’s a logical aftereffect, having influences from the Greek folk subconsciously even if I do not aspire of it.
If you think of it deeper, this is negative for the foreign counties (because of that “self-identity”) but also a plus because it doesn’t exist something like this – as far as my music knowledge allows me to know.
D.P. From “clearly” music angle, both of your works it’s a mixture of metal- neofolk- Viking metal – electro. Keyboards having the main part…all these charming mixture surrounding by soft, almost airily vocals and sounds like waves in the background, giving the impression that a Valkyrie from Valhalla wants or attempt to speak for her vision to the world.
Is there any king of vision such like this from your side Hildr? And if yes, which is this?
H.V. Vision… I am not a visionary, even if I would loved very much the Greeks to run away from the Turkish culture which came here without our own will. The best is to “move out” a little as Greek from the belly dancing and Turkish traditional music and find back (finally) our own identity musically and culturally. We have lost and forgot what is the meaning to be Greek.
D.P. It would be very interesting to listen from which artists “marked” your own music world (I am not refer to “influences” and such usual folly questions, but to artists that you listen when you really want to hear music)
H.V. I like that question! As first choice when I really need to listen to music is Falkenbach. It’s a band, which the lyrics and music are arranged by one member (one man band) I listen to him about 9 – 10 years and he is one of the kind.
As second choice I am listening to Manowar that they are a big band to their genre.
As a third choice I am listening to a magnificent musician woman which has the band Hagalaz Runedance. Again I am talking about a one-member- band. Her voice and melodies is a huge heritage for all of us and the way she creates, turn out to the word…true magic!
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Interviewed for GrPortal
Date 2005/01/28
Thanks for granting me the pleasure of this interview, hopefully we can
shine some light on Hildr Valkyrie for the unknowing here in the states!
Q1: First start off by telling us why you chose the name H.V. and what
personal connection do you have to it?
A1: Searching for a name I started to read more about the Valkyries...and I chose Hildr. Hildr was the Valkyrie that was given life to men’s that fall in battle. Her story can be found at The Prose Edda of Snorri Sturlson. He mention her as “woman full of evil” and also called “the battle Valkyrie” but in my mind appeared a confused one trying to be fair to both (for her father and husband). Thy personal connection that has to do with me; I prefer to keep for myself, this part become too personal.
Q2: Nordic myths are obviosly a main part of H.V., why did you decide to
focus on these instead of Greek myths and culture?
A2: Being Greek doesn't mean that I can't choose of what I want to read and learn about. Comparing both mythologies you can find many commons between Norse and Greek.
F.E. Olympus and Aasgard, or Zeus and Odhinn, or Hera and Frigg and lots, lots of more. That was the main reason, made me start reading about Norse Mythology, was a "knowledge game" for me to find as much similarities could exist and so I get charmed about Norse.
Q3: Any one legend or particular character stand out as being overly special to you?
A3: Baldur, that’s why my demo is called "Deceitful Fate” this title, was inspired by Baldur’s Tod story.
Q4: When writing a song does the mood of the music influence the lyrics or is it the other way around?
A4: Can you find me a better way to write lyrics on a song? Well, music is a big word for me with many explanations. Music carries inside your spirit,yourself, your thoughts, your secrets...everything. Its a way you can express your inner - self without any obstacle to keep you away from it. Lyrics also is a way to give yourself but I count more music then lyrics...sometimes lyrics can be no personal f.e. To reference of a story.
Q5: When writing material do you have any special place to go and do you set up a time table for yourself?
A5: I am an "all weather" type. I can have an idea while I am into my room, at my job, anywhere! … Sometimes I get off my bed and sit towards to my keyboards cause I have an idea. I can't put limits on me and it's better feeling free without a timetable, and so you are more efficient. If you feel forced from someone at the end no one would be satisfied, neither your self and nor the ones that supports you.
Q6: What type of music influences you the most and is there any particular band that comes to mind as being inspirational?
A6: I prefer Viking, Folk and Pagan metal...whatever includes this kind of music, from Tyr to Forefather etc. But my “weak point” are Manowar (always as musicians - smiling) My inspirational band...without thinking too much of it, I can say 100% that is Falkenbach...it's a one-man band and one of my favorites (one of the top for me)
Q7: Any musicians you'd like to have make a guest appearance?
A7: Everyone is dreaming about that and I am not an exception to it! Summoning, Eihnerjer (if they were still active as Einherjer and not now as Battered) and Falkenbach, but I think it’s too early to be a guest to those names!
Q8: "Deceitful Fate" was self financed, do plan to continue releasing albums on your own or is there a deal with a record label in the works?
A8: Deceitful Fate was made by my obstinacy and was too quick, that's why been self - financed (I couldn't wait!).
Was a way out to proof myself that..."yes you can do it by yourself and you don't need anyone to help you",
it's not perfect but I am very proud of this demo.
I was in many bands before and nowhere my name was mention at, not even a "thank you"...nothing,
I've been betrayed by them, get hurt many times at my past; and lost precious time...I gave myself and "nothing" I get back.
So as I say "Leave it all behind and start a new part of life that it's based on YOU"
For the label part now, I am still at my very first steps, the demo finished before about one month and a half. It would be a big gift for me if a label would be interesting in, for my (one-woman) band.
Q9: Any plans to tour and what would the perfect live show be for you?
A9: I am at my very first steps (as I mention above) as Hildr Valkyrie; still (even if I am active as musician almost 10 years) and by my own, so it would be very difficult to give a live show or just think about it. I need musicians, and I need much time for this to make it happen. For the time I am not thinking about it, cause I feel being drowning!
Q10: Besides H.V. what other artistic outlets do you indulge in and can we expect to ever witness these?
A10: Well I am a human that I do not stop creating and search for other ways to give myself.
I am full of spirit-energy, you can conclude that taking a better look at my website… I design the artwork of the cd, I write the lyrics, I compose the music, I produced the demo, I am the singer, I am the instrument player; (I don’t want to be misunderstood that I am “the one that knows everything”, I just try… and I try hard for it) so the main "artistic outlet" for the time is my band...! (And I thank Makis cause he took over my website that was in my activities too)
Q11: Well thanks for the interview, if you have any last comments to make feel free to do so now and by the way I always have to ask what's your favorite alcoholic beverage?
A11: Believe in your powers; believe in yourselves, even if you are not perfect (no one is perfect), never stop to be dreaming and life may smile for you. Manowar said in a concert here in Greece...-You Greeks are crazy, you know why? Cause you invention of OUZO, can I disagree with them? ;)
