Date At Midnight is an Italian Post-Punk and Goth-Rock band formed in 2007 in Rome. This year, they released their third full-length album, “Fading Into Grace”, through Manic Depression Records. The album features well-crafted, professional compositions that seamlessly blend the band’s signature alluring guitar work with more melodic and atmospheric electronic elements, all underscored by deep, brooding vocals. It’s a standout release that is sure to captivate the international Post-Punk community. I had the opportunity to chat with the entire band to learn more about this remarkable album. (Courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: You’ve been active as Date At Midnight for several years now. What initially brought you together, and how do you reflect on what you’ve achieved so far?

Pasquale: When we embarked on this journey back in 2007, the Goth scene in Rome was a vibrant tapestry of parties, concerts, and kindred spirits. Both Daniele and I had our roots in other bands, but we yearned for something new, a vessel to express ourselves, revel in the joy of creation, and craft our own music. Little did we know that Date At Midnight would endure, becoming a cornerstone of the Italian scene with countless gigs across Europe. It’s a peculiar blend of pride and a slice of healthy melancholy that fills me when I reflect on our path.

Daniele: I wholeheartedly echo Pasquale’s sentiments. The early days were filled with unforgettable moments, both within the band and in the thriving scene that birthed us, and this feeling is still alive.

Francesco: I joined Date At Midnight in 2012, after their initial works, and I was elated to receive their call, having been an early supporter. It felt like coming home, and I immediately sought to contribute, which I believe is evident in the evolution of our drumming from the early works to “Songs To Fall And Forget” and beyond. The camaraderie we share, especially backstage, after shows, and during our travels, are my most cherished memories.

Nunzio: Though I joined just a few months ago, I’ve known Date At Midnight for years and even shared the stage with them with some of my previous projects. Playing with them is a source of immense pride, and our first gig together in Budapest last July is a memory I will treasure forever. I truly look forward to what will come next, from every point of view!

Q: Why are there always years between each album release? Is it challenging to win back fans after such breaks? What keeps you busy when you’re not making music?

Daniele: Balancing Date At Midnight with our daily lives can be challenging and, since we care a lot about our live performances, when we have to play live we prefer to focus on the setlist rather than composing. After the very good outcome of “Songs To Fall And Forget” in 2016, the plan was to release a quick follow-up EP, which we did with “Reverse Resilience” in 2018, and then a new album. However, COVID disrupted our plans, and furthermore our original guitarist’s departure forced us to start again almost from scratch. These challenges have certainly impacted our timing, but the important thing is that we are now here, alive, kicking, and with a great new album out!

Pasquale: Each album has its own unique story. We’ve always been a band that thrives in the rehearsal room, sharing every step of the creative process. Especially in the last years external factors like lineup changes, personal commitments, and the pandemic have all played a role. Fortunately, we have a loyal and patient fan base that continues to grow with each release, and that’s truly heartening.

Francesco: My two daughters and my day job keep me busy, but I relish every moment in the rehearsal room. The creative phase is very exciting, and we take our time composing, recording, and mixing. Our fans seem to appreciate this approach, and that makes it all worthwhile.

Q: Tell us more about your latest work, “Fading Into This Grace.” What is the album about, and what influenced its composition? How did it all come together?

Pasquale: “Fading Into This Grace” is our most complex work, with layers of sound, extensive use of synthesizers, and deeply introspective lyrics. From the bass guitar perspective, we aimed for a prominent sound that also contributes melodically, in true Post-Punk and Dark-Wave tradition. The album delves into obsessions, impulses, disillusions, and emotions, addressing unresolved questions in a symbolist and visionary manner. It explores the inexorable flow of time, the need and urgency of losing yourself in a state of grace that probably cannot ever come, the illusory yet essential nature of love, and the societal traps of pre-packaged definitions, all while clinging to the vital, albeit potentially tricky, flame of hope.

Daniele: The new album features nine tracks, each distinct, reflecting our eclectic approach. We blend Gothic-Rock, Post-Punk, Dark-Wave, Death-Rock, and Cold-Wave without boundaries. The vocals are varied and expressive, with moments of climax, liberation, and desperation. I aimed for a more spontaneous vocal approach, and I believe we achieved that. To me, the entire work is inspired by love and sorrow.

Q: Who handles what when it comes to the writing and production process? And what contributes to the chemistry among you?

Daniele: Our music has evolved with our lives, from a more whimsical youth to a view of things characterized by greater focus and less haste. This evolution is mirrored in our collaborative songwriting process, where we share ideas and feelings from the early composition stage to the final result. It’s a magical synergy that has persisted for years, fueled by our diverse musical tastes and immense passion, as we all listen to different kind of music and so each one tries to bring its own and evolving background when it comes to write a new song.

Pasquale: The writing process is truly collaborative, with each member contributing to their own instrument and providing feedback on others; this is my favorite part of the job. While the rehearsal room remains central, I must say that for “Fading Into This Grace” there has been a bit more ‘home based’ contribution, as some songs such as “No Contact/Red Zone”, “Carmilla”, “The Privation” have been fully composed and recorded in a rough demo version by myself and then finetuned all together.

In production, we closely collaborate with our sound engineer, trying always to experiment with something new; for our last works I particularly take care of this step. I want to make a special mention concerning the mastering of “Fading Into This Grace” since it has been made by William Faith in his studio in Chicago: he did it great, providing the best listening experience. Apart from the technical aspects, it has been a true honor for us to have him onboard for this release.

Q: How do you feel about the album now that it’s out? Are there any aspects you think could have been done better or differently? What do you particularly like about the songs?

Nunzio: As someone who wasn’t part of the recording process, I approached the album as a listener. I was immediately struck by its complexity and modern sound. I particularly enjoyed songs like “No Contact/Red Zone” and “The Line”, but each song has its own personality and style, keeping me engaged throughout.

Francesco: I’m very satisfied with the result. While there may always be minor details I’d tweak upon re-listening, songs like “Another Grace” and “Rendez-Vous” are so powerful that I was eager to record and release them. “Carmilla,” dedicated to my first daughter, is a particular point of pride for me, and an act of love from the whole band.

Daniele: I believe this is our best album yet, and I still enjoy listening to it, which I didn’t make so often in the past. Occasionally, I notice small things that could have been recorded differently, but it often depends on my mood. The album’s layered nature means each listening experience is unique.

Pasquale: The album has received numerous reviews, and a common sentiment is that it feels too short, leaving listeners wanting more. I think that this is the highest praise it could receive.

Q: I noticed you have some live performances coming up. What can fans expect from your new live shows, and how do you prepare for a performance?

Francesco: We’re thrilled to be back on the road. Live shows are a chance to connect with fans and fellow artists. Over the years we have connected with lot of people and with many other bands whose mutual support still endures. We’re training hard to deliver the best performances, and fans can expect an atmosphere and energy that have always been integral to our shows.

Pasquale: To prepare, we rehearse as much as possible and then we live the moment, maybe having a couple of drinks before going on stage… We’ve also revamped our visuals to align with the mood of the songs. Our “Into This Grace Tour” has begun, and we’re pleased with the live renditions of the new songs. Fans can look forward to a mix of new tracks and beloved classics, including some we haven’t performed in years.

Nunzio: I look forward to be on stage again, fully integrating myself in Date At Midnight’s interplay, which makes our shows unforgettable for everyone.

Daniele: I won’t spoil the surprise. I invite everyone to attend our shows and experience it, so… check our calendar and get ready for your Date At Midnight!

Watch the clip from “Another Grace”

Inferno Sound Diaries

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

www.side-line.com

Crying Vessel, the Swiss-American post-punk and darkwave duo, has made a return with the announcement of not one, but two new albums after a two-year hiatus. These albums, titled “Sepulchers – The Servant” and “Sepulchers – The Maiden”, are set to be released in early 2025 under Cold Transmission Music. Each album contains 10 tracks.

“Sepulchers – The Servant” will offer Crying Vessel’s signature elegant synth-driven style, leaning into the more melodic and danceable aspects of their music. On the other hand, “Sepulchers – The Maiden” delves into darker, heavier soundscapes, reflecting the band’s recent explorations in more intense, moody territory.

The lead single from “The Servant”, titled “Falling In Love With A Ghost”, is out now. The accompanying music video was directed by Basil Oberli.

About Crying Vessel

Crying Vessel, a Swiss-American post-punk and darkwave duo, began as a solo project by Slade Templeton in 2010. Over time, it evolved into a full-fledged band with the addition of drummer Basil Oberli. Their sound is deeply influenced by the aesthetics of the 80s and 90s but with a modern twist.

They have released six albums, with their seventh, a double album titled “Sepulchers – The Servant” and “Sepulchers – The Maiden”, expected to release in early 2025. The band’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and the supernatural.

Their work has been released on several labels, including Manic Depression Records, Cleopatra Records, and Cold Transmission Music.

Bernard - Side-Line Staff

Chief editor of Side-Line – which basically means I spend my days wading through a relentless flood of press releases from labels, artists, DJs, and zealous correspondents. My job? Strip out the promo nonsense, verify what’s actually real, and decide which stories make the cut and which get tossed into the digital void. Outside the news filter bubble, I’m all in for quality sushi and helping raise funds for Ukraine’s ongoing fight against the modern-day axis of evil.

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This second album by the Swedish project Living Temples is released 6 years after “Against The Day”. “Glass” finds its influences in the dark sheen of 80s Dark-Wave that was subsequently polished with refined electronic arrangements. The album sounds powerful and melodic at the same time. Master thinker and operator Kalle Fagerberg is also a very good singer whose enchanting and charismatic voice will not leave you indifferent. The only minus is that the album only features 8 songs, but almost all of them are enjoyable. (Rate:8).

Listen to “Cloud My Senses”:

https://livingtemples.bandcamp.com/track/cloud-my-senses

Inferno Sound Diaries

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

www.side-line.com

She Pleasures HerSelf (SPHS), the Lisbon ,Portugal based new wave-ish act which formed in 2016, is back with their newest, third, album called “Latex”, out now on Manic Depression Records.

The founding trio – David Francisco (synths/guitars), Nuno Francisco (drums/programming), and Nuno Varudo (vocals/bass) – all gained experience in other formations and released various digital singles before being picked up by Manic Depression Records. Nowadays the band consists of 4 people including Leticia on live synths.

Musically the band mixes new wave, goth, 70`s/80s and post punk adding that ‘little’ touch of fetish.

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Their debut album “Fetish” was released on Manic Depression Records in 2017 and was followed by the 2019 release “XXX” also on Manic Depression Records.

Here’s the new album on Bandcamp.

And here are 4 videos the band released from this new album. Some are age-restricted.

Bernard - Side-Line Staff

Chief editor of Side-Line – which basically means I spend my days wading through a relentless flood of press releases from labels, artists, DJs, and zealous correspondents. My job? Strip out the promo nonsense, verify what’s actually real, and decide which stories make the cut and which get tossed into the digital void. Outside the news filter bubble, I’m all in for quality sushi and helping raise funds for Ukraine’s ongoing fight against the modern-day axis of evil.

side-line.com