The band Anthology, formed in 2008 in Slovakia, built its path in the symphonic power metal scene, evolving with each album released, presenting a sound that mixes melody, heaviness, technique, speed, clean and guttural vocals, and symphonic elements.
After their first EP, “Exitus” (2011), and two full-length albums, “The Prophecy” (2014) and “Angel's Revenge” (2016), the band went on a hiatus and lineup change at the end of 2019, returning to activity with a new vocalist announced in 2021, and new releases scheduled for 2025!The lineup of the band consists of: Martin Lofaj - guitar; Lilian Anerousi - vocals; Marián Gonda - guitar; Miro Grman - bass; Peter Pleva – drums.
A team of talented and skilled musicians who kindly provided an exclusive interview to the blog Power Metal Producers, talking about their latest singles and plans for the upcoming album “Frozen Sun”! Check out the interview below:
1- The arrival of vocalist Lilian Anerousi marks the beginning of a new era for Anthology. How did you go about selecting the new singer, and what creative possibilities have emerged since she joined?
MARTIN: When Ľubica left the band, we were almost done with the new album's creation. So we started to think, how to take the new album and the band to the next level. We really like the idea of getting a vocalist from abroad to open new doors for the band. Our last gigs we played with Lilian´s band Evil Within in Athens and Vrútky, and we knew that she would fit the band perfectly. We really liked her beautiful and strong voice, vocal skills, and abilities. And of course, personal qualities. So we started working to finish the album with Lilian. As I said before, the album was almost done, so most of the vocal lines were done before Lilian joined the band, but her vocal range gave us more possibilities. Of course, we made some new vocal lines, we could use some "oriental" elements, and all of this helped to create a really specific atmosphere on the new album.
2- “Be My Savior” was the first single released with the new lineup, demonstrating an evolution towards a more modern sound without abandoning the epic and symphonic elements. How have fans received this release?
3- “Sinners in Paradise,” the new single and video, features some progressive elements and adds even more punch to Anthology’s sound mix. What message and concept is the band going for with this song?
4- “Frozen Sun” is the next album, scheduled for release in 2025. Without giving too many spoilers, what can fans expect from this album?
MIRO: I think this new album is a mature and very diverse work. You can find songs from every genre on it. You can hear, for example, fast thrash parts, punchy power metal passages, energetic melodies, or epic symphonic creations. The basis of this album is edgy guitar riffs supplemented with symphonic compositions that beautifully complete the atmosphere of each song. The big change is the vocal parts of the new singer, Lilian, who you could already hear on two previous singles. She brings more power and energy to the songs and takes that all to a higher level. Also, I can reveal that you can expect another new single at the turn of August/September, which will reveal a little more of what we have prepared for you.
5- Are there already plans for a European tour or festival appearances after the release of the new album?
LILIAN: After the release of our new album, we’re planning to do live shows in Slovakia and Greece, and yes, we’re working on scheduling performances at various festivals. We’re always open to new opportunities! Make sure to follow us on social media and check our website for all the latest updates on upcoming live shows!
6- Previous albums, especially “Angel's Revenge,” brought great results for the band, reaching audiences in other countries such as the USA, Japan, Brazil, among others. What good memories does the band have from that time?
MIRO: Yes, that was a very intense time for our band. With this release, "the door to the world" has opened a little more for us. We reached new contacts, played more gigs outside Slovakia, mainly in Czechia, Poland, Greece, and Romania. We gained lots of fans from the whole world, even some of them were able to travel hundreds of kilometers to see us live. I consider sharing big stages with such bands as Epica, Edguy, Accept, Ensiferum, etc., unforgettable moments. We’ve had an amazing experience during that time, and that pushed us to be still better and better.
7- With all your experience in the metal scene and your career built over the years, what advice can you give to new bands and musicians around the world?
LILIAN: Every musician should never stop practicing and studying their instrument. Within a band, good communication and a shared vision are essential. Bands should always stay creative, working as a team to write new music that they can then share with the world. It’s also important to build connections, stay active on social media by regularly sharing content, and play as many live shows as possible.
In the beginning, they’ll need to invest time—and money—into promoting their work in order to gradually attract more opportunities.
But above all, no one should ever stop doing what they love, no matter what challenges come their way—financial difficulties, mental struggles, health issues, anything. Keep creating music and keep sharing it with the world.
The Power Metal Producers blog is very grateful for this interview and wishes Anthology every success and good fortune! STAY METAL!
