Q:
It has been a while since Memory Shell –
what musical experiences have shaped the Aes Dana sound since
then?
I worked on several albums with
the Ultimae artists, and especially the H.U.V.A. Network [
Ephemeris ] with Magnus.
Also did a couple of pieces for Les Dominicains de Haute Alsace,
with whom I’ll start an artistic residence from early
2010.
Q:
What did you have in mind when you began
work on the new album Leylines?
Leylines took two years on and
off in the making. But it’s the second version of the
album. I crashed a hard drive and couldn't retrieve all data
properly.
I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of lines of
energy, geomagnetic forces. I wanted to write an album that
would relate those flows.
Q:
How did your plans develop as recording
got under way?
I don’t plan music at
all. Some of the best moments come from recording accidents
as I call them.
I play around with an effect it doesn’t go the way I
want but hey…what’s that sound?
Q:
Where was the album recorded – what’s your working
environment like?
The album was recorded at
my studio in Lyon and Les Dominicains de Haute Alsace.
I live in the town center in a beautiful old attic.
Q:
Are there any interesting experiences
that you had during the making of the album?
All times
of composition are interesting moments, times for experimentation.
Q:
What differences in sound do you think
the fans might notice in comparison with previous works?
To me Leylines is a cross over
album. I keep my downtempo trancey side and mix it with classical
and electronica influences.
Q:
How would you describe Leylines to someone
unfamiliar with Aes Dana’s music?
I think I should
leave that question to you, you describe music so well ;)
Q:
What are the graphics for this package
all about?
I worked with
Rodolphe Bessey, a French contemporary artist. I deeply enjoy
and relate to his work.
We used various of his photograms, the child hands with alchemist
style circles and symbols is one of my favourite of his creations.
Inside the booklet there’s also a shot of Passport,
a short film by Amund Lie for which I created music.
Q:
How are you feeling about the album now
that it’s complete?
Pretty good,
excited to receive it today at the Ultimae office as a matter
of fact!
Touched by the amazing feedback I’ve been getting so
far and by the precious fan support.
Thanks
to Vincent Villuis for allowing us that interview.
