Using the Spanish word for radiance, the name Resplandor was actually inspired by band member Antonio Zelada’s interest in Stanley Kubrick’s film “The Shining” which literally translates to “El Resplandor”.
Despite coming from several different countries, including Peru and Russia, the Netherlands based band have similar musical influences making it easy for them to find a single direction when composing arrangements for their songs. Although at the moment their songs are in English and Spanish, the bands ethnic diversity means that at sometime they may even produce songs in Dutch or Russian.
Resplandor’s songs have a tinge of melancholy. Being an independent band has allowed Resplandor a certain autonomy which has resulted in an honesty in their music, a true reflection of how songwriter and lyricist Antonio feels at the times he is inspired.
Antonio cites the sea as a huge inspiration to the music he writes. The sea, for him, inspires a melancholy through its beauty and greatness but also has that hint of loneliness. He talks of “the stars at night that you see but at the same time are so far away you cannot touch them.” The sky, landscapes and even the air we breath can be great influences when composing according to Antonio.
When writing songs for the band Antonio begins with a guitar melody. After recording it and listening to it for awhile he decides if he is happy with it or if the music needs to be tweaked. Once he is satisfied with the music he writes the lyrics for the song. Using the chords, melody and lyrics Antonio makes the guitar arrangements. A demo with drums, bass and keyboard sequences is recorded. In the studio guitars and voices are recorded as well as the synths, bass and drums of the other band members. The tracks are then put in order, mixed and mastered.
Antonio also explains that as part of the creative process “music and all kinds of art are an influence.” Garnering inspiration from film makers like Stanley Kubrick, Wim Wenders, Alejandro Amenábar, Krzysztof Kieślowski, literature by Cortázar, Borges and others are also sources of creativity.
Resplandor loves “the adrenaline of playing live.” The band enjoys interacting with the audience and seeing them connect to the music. They also like talking to the audience after a gig. “Being able to transmit the energy of our songs and play loud” is something Resplandor relish. Resplandor has toured extensively. Their music was so admired by musician Robert Smith that he invited them to open for his band The Cure in Lima.
During a four year break from live performances Resplandor participated in some compilation album work as well as doing some remixes. They also recorded a cover of “Until She Comes” by the Psychedelic Furs. Now with a new album out Resplandor are looking forward to playing at festivals again. They are also planning to start work on their next album.
If you are new to the music of Resplandor they remind you that music and art are something that attracts you. There is a lot about this band that makes them worth a listen.
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