Interview with Exilia

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

Music has been our true calling since the inception of EXILIA. Our journey in music has been an entirely organic one, a path that unfolded naturally, driven by an innate passion that's been with us from the very start. It's like a flame that has burned inside us since day one.

Had we not embarked on this musical journey, our paths might have led us to fields like writing or even the realm of law. However, the magnetic pull of music has been our guiding light, a force we simply couldn't ignore.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

Beyond music, we draw inspiration from life's small yet profound moments – whether it's quality time with family, engaging in sports, or our active involvement in animal rescue associations. These diverse experiences, ranging from the chaotic to the serene, serve as wellsprings of creativity. They offer us a broader lens through which to infuse depth into our songs, enriching them with the colors of our existence.

How long has your band been around?

Our journey started in the year 2000, ignited by Masha Mysmane's vision to blend metal, punk, goth, and pop into a distinct sound.

Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?

Based in Milan, Italy, our surroundings have shaped our artistic essence. The city's vibrant culture and eclectic influences have seeped into our music, making it the soul-stirring blend it is today.

How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?

The name "EXILIA" serendipitously emerged from a box in Masha's room, captivating us with its intriguing sound. Beyond its auditory allure, "EXILIA" encapsulates for us feminine attributes such as sensuality, elegance, and potent energy. The name also resonates with the notion of liberating ourselves from conventional norms, creating pathways to traverse diverse musical landscapes.

Tell me about your most memorable shows.

Memorable shows are numerous, but sharing the stage with esteemed bands like Rammstein and seeing our music featured in "Der Klawn" and "Grey's Anatomy" stand out.

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

Our preferred stage is the "Weinheim Café" in Germany. Although a medium-sized venue, it's consistently filled with passion and vibrant energy. While we cherish our experiences there, our dream is to one day grace the legendary Wacken Festival stage.

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

If we could curate a dream lineup, sharing the stage with bands like Korn, Muse, Metallica and nFoo Fighters would be electrifying.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

For emerging bands, our advice is to embrace the journey, foster strong collaboration, and remain faithful to your distinct sound. If we could speak to our younger selves, we'd impart the wisdom to not fear failure, to chart your own course, and always seek genuine values.

If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?

In hindsight, we'd tell ourselves to remain confident, resilient, and to never underestimate the power of our music.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

Each of our songs holds a unique essence, yet "Coincidence" occupies a special place in our hearts. From our masterpiece "Unleashed," it boasts a wonderful fusion of rhythm and melody that resonates deeply.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

Choosing favorites can be challenging, yet tracks like "Coincidence" and "Feel The Fire" frequently receive requests and hold a cherished spot in our live performances.

What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?

Our creative process merges collective input, drawing inspiration from life experiences, global events, and personal journeys. Each day, we strive to refine our skills as musicians and individuals, aiming to create better music and be better individuals.

What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?

 Through our music, we endeavor to convey messages of empowerment, responsibility, and connection, addressing both personal and global themes. We firmly believe in the significance of driving positive changes in the world—preserving nature, fostering kindness, and recognizing our essential role in life's tapestry.

Do you ever have disagreements in your band, and how do you get past them?

Yes, we've experienced our fair share of disagreements, much like any close-knit family. Disagreements are a natural aspect of any creative journey and growth. We approach them with open communication, patience, and a mutual dedication to our overarching objectives.

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

 Looking ahead, we're in the process of creating new music and gearing up for our 20th-anniversary celebrations in 2024, centered around our masterpiece "Unleashed." This celebration will feature special collaborations and exciting live dates, including a desire to return to the United States for some powerful shows.

We sincerely appreciate this opportunity to provide insights into our musical journey.

Thank you so much for your support! Stray Pure ! Masha & Co.