Daedalean Complex, a Canadian melodic death metal band, has recently unveiled their latest single “XIII,” a track that masterfully blends haunting French lyrics with the intense energy of metal. This release is a testament to the band’s unique approach to storytelling and musical composition.
The choice to use French lyrics in “XIII” is deeply rooted in the band’s French-Canadian heritage from Quebec. “Using French allowed us to further develop the poetic nature of the phrases and increase the intensity of delivery in the vocal performance,” the band explains. This linguistic choice not only enhances the song’s atmosphere but also resonates strongly with their local audience, particularly during live performances.
In “XIII,” the fusion of piano and orchestration with melodic death metal creates a rich, multi-layered sound. The chorus alone features four different harmonies, including vocals, violin, keyboard, and guitar. The orchestration, comprising 33 layers, reaches its zenith in the middle break, adding a dramatic depth to the guitar riffs and enhancing the overall narrative of the song.
Fred Bédard, a long-time collaborator with Daedalean Complex, played a pivotal role in the production and mastering of “XIII.” The recording process spanned almost two years, marked by pandemic-related delays. Bédard’s expertise in mixing and mastering, coupled with the band’s meticulous approach to recording each instrument, has culminated in a sound that is both intricate and powerful.
The music video for “XIII,” shot in the autumn of 2022, visually captures the song’s themes. Filmed on a LARP land near Quebec City, the video features live blade fights and a performance by the band, produced by Laco Films. The song’s narrative revolves around the 13th Legion, a fictional group spreading terror, symbolizing the human struggle against the inescapable and the importance of maintaining integrity.
Daedalean Complex approaches their music with a blend of theatricality and imaginative storytelling. “The majority of the tunes begin with a fictional or imaginary subject,” they share, adding that the music always comes first in their creative process. The orchestration plays a crucial role in enhancing the lyrical themes, painting a vivid backdrop for each song.
Fans of Kalmah, Mors Principium Est, and Dark Tranquillity will find “XIII” a compelling addition to the melodic death metal genre, showcasing Daedalean Complex’s unique blend of storytelling and musical prowess.
Social Links:
Bandcamp: https://daedaleancomplex.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daedaleancomplex
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/daedaleancomplex
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/intl-fr/artist/1a4wr0jSkeTappBVXFlnJI
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daedaleancomplex
