ELOAH – interview

Introduce your band, and describe your latest release:

Hi, I’m Elmar, the founder of ELOAĦ. Our project began as a singer/songwriter endeavor back in 1995, and over the years, it has evolved into a collaborative effort involving a diverse group of musicians. Our latest release, The Book of Pain, features 17 tracks that explore various dimensions of emotional pain, fear, and anxiety. Each song was born from a deeply personal experience, and through music, we transformed these emotions into a powerful and cathartic journey.

What’s the hardest part about being a band in this day and age?

The most challenging aspect today is navigating the digital landscape while ensuring the idiosyncrasy of our music. The music industry has become so saturated, and while it’s easier than ever to publish music online, it’s also difficult to stand out and connect authentically with listeners. Balancing promotion, digital presence, and genuine artistry can be demanding, especially when we aim to create music that goes beyond trends and remains true to our emotional and artistic roots.

When did you realise that your project had the potential to be much more than just a fun idea?

Ever since early childhood, I have loved creating music—whether it was on the piano, using the first sequencers on my MSX computer, playing the guitar, or experimenting with the flute. Music has always been my primary focus. The joy and fullfilment I felt from making music naturally led me to play with other musicians, and by the time I was about 20, I had the chance to meet and collaborate with my first “professionals.” This progression felt like a natural evolution, and it ultimately led to ELOAĦ becoming a constant presence in my life, serving as a creative outlet for my passion.

Tell us about your latest release, why should we check it out?

The Book of Pain is a deeply emotional and immersive album that I believe many can relate to on a personal level. Each track is crafted to explore and express intense feelings, transforming them into something beautiful and meaningful. By listening, I hope that people can find solace, resonance, and even healing in the music. It’s not just an album; it’s a journey through the darker aspects of our emotions, with the aim of emerging stronger on the other side.

How does a song typically come together for you?

It’s often an unpredictable and organic process. Most of the time, I pick up my guitar and start improvising. Sometimes, the music flows effortlessly, and chords, melodies, and lyrics begin to form as if they were waiting to be discovered. I quickly write them down before they fade away. Other times, the band and I create music together through improvisation, as we did for the Mondstein Chronicles where I played the piano together with either a singer (Mondstein 1) or a singer and a drummer (Mondstein 2 and 3). There’s a magic in letting the music evolve naturally without forcing it.

How would you describe your sound to an unfamiliar reader?

ELOAĦ’s sound is a blend of singer/songwriter elements with rock, jazz, new age, and even experimental influences. It’s a mix that’s both eclectic and idiosyncratic, aimed at creating a space where different genres merge into a cohesive, emotional experience. Our music is all about feeling and emotional expression, with each track taking listeners on a journey through various moods and atmospheres.

What do you want listeners to take away from listening to your band?

I want listeners to connect emotionally with our music, to feel that they are not alone in their experiences. Whether it’s pain, joy, fear, or love, our songs aim to resonate deeply with those who listen, offering a sense of catharsis and understanding. It is my believe that music has the power to heal and transform, and I hope ELOAĦ’s songs provide that emotional outlet and connection for our audience.

Where would you really like to tour that you haven’t done so yet, and why?

Whereas we rarely tour (and have not played live in the current line-up at all), if the possibility would present itself, I would love to play in venues across the UK. The rock and metal scenes there have such a rich history, and it would be incredible to perform in places where so many iconic bands have left their mark. It would be a chance not only to connect with new audiences but also to immerse ourselves in a culture that has greatly influenced our sound.

How would you say that the sound of your band has progressed over the years?

Our sound has evolved significantly, largely due to the diverse influences and talents of the musicians who have joined us over time. We started with a straightforward singer/songwriter approach, but as we grew, we incorporated more elements like jazz, heavy metal, and experimental improvisations. Each album reflects a new phase of exploration, and while our essence remains rooted in emotional expression, our style has expanded to embrace a wide range of genres and sounds.

How excited are you for the future, and what can fans expect from you?

We just released our album The Book of Pain digitally and on CD, and we are now busy with an LP version of this album. In parallel, we are already working on the next project, which will be an album focused on gospels and hymns, and a bit more jazzy than the previous projects. Fans can expect these releases to offer both familiar and new elements, as we continue to push the boundaries of our sound while staying true to the emotional depth that defines ELOAĦ.