Today we seize the opportunity to present you a dark and fantastical video clip for the ages. The soundtrack comes from a neo-goth alt-rock trio called Dispel, relative newcomers to the music scene in this particular incarnation. ‘Modal Consequence’ is the lead single off the bands forthcoming album ‘Lore’, due out in early January 2020.
Based in the America that we know here and now, not only is this threesome inspired by the past, as well as role-playing and the folklore of yesteryear, but so to is their video inspired by medieval thematics and mysticism – kind of like a mix of symbolism involving crusade-era knighthood with witches and warlocks. The battle between good and evil seems to be rather unclear here, but makes a fascinating subject for explanation in this music video.
If you ever were a fan of Evanescence, Ghost, Nightwish, Dark Moor or Ashbury Heights, we think you’ll embrace this track. Even if you do not happen to be a fan of any of these particular bands, but you happen to like such genres as darkwave, neo-classical, electronica and gothic rock, he should definitely give this a listen. If this first single is any indication of what Dispel’s upcoming album will be like, we are excited to hear the rest and recommend that you join us in putting this band on your radar. With powerful and strong female vox, this delivery is most convincing and makes you feel to the core.
This dark electronic collective’s first offering features hearty front-and-center mezzo-soprano vocals by Ravensea against the background of glacial industrial rhythms. The band’s sonic aesthetic is laced with dark electronic melodies, vocal hooks and praising spiritual quests through driving beats and oscillating keyboards. Together, they seek to create a musical narrative praising historic lore, mythology and mysticism.
This album was produced by Mike Textbeak, a Cleopatra Records artist (as TEXTBEAK) and early DJ from the Witchhouse scene. He has worked with an impressive line-up including legendary producer John Fryer, Mark Stewart, Bestial Mouths, Peter Hope, Cyanotic, Vaselyne and Searmanas, to name but a few. An expert in underground music, he hosts the weekly CXB7 radio show on Hexx 9 Radio.
Comprised of nine tracks, this album was mastered at The Cage Studios in Coventry, UK by Martin Bowes of Attrition, well known for his work with Nine Inch Nails, Psychic TV and Steven Severin of Siouxsie & the Banshees.
Founded by Scott Dispel, Dispel is a trio comprised of Scott Dispel, Ravensea and Sean Gallows. Scott Dispel was a founding member of the old school hardcore band Face Value and is also currently the drummer for TEXTBEAK. A studio engineer and producer, in 2005, he was voted Cleveland’s best nightclub DJ by Scene Magazine.
“Modal Consequence is about the Threshold stage of the Heros’ Journey. This is the moment where the Hero/Heroin takes that first step into that dangerous realm of the unknown. Leaving the comfort or stagnation of their known limits. It’s an important step to growth, but the journey will be full of unknown and often decisive challenges,” explains Scott Dispel.
“Ravensea sings the Chorus “My bones they scream with warning…” Encouraging and preparing our Hero for the trials ahead… We hope to inspire others to take the first step to “attacking their destiny” to becoming the best versions of themselves and in having the courage to strive for achievement, despite the unknown challenges that will surely arise“.
Dispel’s music is inspired by such artists as Sisters of Mercy, Bauhaus, Clan of Xymox, Depeche Mode, VNV Nation and Blutengle on the one hand and Delerium, The Misfits and The Cramps on the other.
The new Medieval-based videofor ‘Modal Consequence’ was directed, filmed and edited by Rafeeq Roberts. Scott Dispel fills the role of the Plague Doctor, Mystic & Black Knight. Ravensea appears as herself. Jennifer Haney plays the Sorcerous, as well as handling make-up and wardrobe. Levie Mckenzie plays the Crusading Knight, in addition to handling armor, weapons and fight choreography.
Dispel has unlikely roots in the early 90’s hardcore punk scene while founder Scott Dispel was drumming for Face Value. The dues were paid, gear was hauled, road miles travelled and endless van breakdowns followed. While on tour, a seed was planted in an underground goth-Industrial club in Berlin. Exposed to a new sound and different culture, this experience made a lasting impression. Though the raw truth of the punk scene remained, it was clear that electronic music was the next chapter and that this required a fresh approach.
After completing a degree in music and recording studio internship, Scott Dispel’s commitment to the art of music was solidified. Feeling the local underground scene was sorely lacking and inspired by Fantasy gaming, mythology and mysticism, the foundation was set. Fate again intervened when he met Ravensea, a Berklee Vocal Performance / Music Therapy major, offering a powerful voice and insight to the secret of music’s transcendence of language and cultural barriers. This secret is a revelation, so pure, simple and true… “Music is an integral part of our emotional lives.”
As of October 31, ‘Modal Consequence’ will be released digitally on the band’s site and Bandcamp, where it will be offered as a free download. The full ‘Lore’ album will be released on January 10, available on vinyl and CD, as well as digital download. It can already be pre-ordered via Dispel’s own website at https://www.dispelmusic.com/Album
Keep up with Dispel / Scott Dispel
Written by Mike D.
