"Not in the Evening's eyes
When they red with weeping are
For the Sun that dyes,
Sits sorrow with a face so faire:
No where but here did ever meete
Sweetnesse so sadd, sadnesse so sweete."
- Richard Crashaw, "The Weeper"
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"Not in the Evening's eyes
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...That is how one could have paraphrased my thoughts when I first heard Virgin Black's music on a Rowe Productions sampler sometime back in 1996 (the sampler that included three tracks from the band's demo tape). I was instantly enthralled by the extraordinary beauty and emotion that the songs radiated...
Meanwhile, after the band has released an independent EP ("Trance") and a full length album ("Sombre Romantic", on Massacre and The End Records), I feel highly honored to have the opportunity to interview guitarist Samantha Escarbe exclusively for (what would later become) INNENSEITEN...
How long have Virgin Black been making music?
I had already started writing music for a developing band and had a deep vision in my heart about the music I desired to create. Soon after, Rowan London crossed my path, and we discovered that much of our passion and dreams coincided perfectly, and hence joined forces. 1995 saw the release of our self-titled demo.This was when Virgin Black was truly born. Since then, we have consolidated into a strong entity and am proud of the unity within the band. Time has certainly inspired a lot of growth!
It seems you have the talent of (emotionally) "speaking" through your guitar. How long have you been playing? And have you ever tried any other instruments?
The guitar has always (inherently) been an instrument close to my heart, and perhaps that is an important factor which contributes to the way I write. Many have expressed that they are moved by some of the melodies and notes incorporated within the songs, and this truly is the greatest honour. I consider it of great importance, to play in a way which comes natural to my own character, ...perhaps then, facets of one's personality and mood are revealed. I am at present exploring another instrument.
Do you like to play live (in general)? What has been your best show - any memories you'd like to share?
The "live" experience is truly another dimension. Although we have played with bands such as Paradise Lost, Entombed, and Cathedral, I consider the smaller, more intimate shows to be the most memorable. When an audience is captivated, and the band is pouring out its soul - these are the greatest moments. I find live performances to be quite emotive and rewarding.
Where would you like to play?
Of course, our hearts are set on Europe; particularly Germany. Such a fervent passion for music exists there.
Just for the record: would you call Virgin Black a "Christian" band?
It truly depends on your definition of the word "christian". Our generation has witnessed too much abhorrent religious tyranny. It sickens me, to see the deplorable abuse, and the misrepresentation of God caused by such fatuous and hypocritical individuals. They have no understanding of truth, grace is merely a word which they refuse to live, and they accept only those who are cloned in their own likeness. This is what saddens us the most. It is difficult for people to find truth, when truth has been distorted by religion. But we encourage individuals to discover a beauty in God, one which is far from the defiled hand of humanity. This beauty is so seductive. It is irreplaceable. (If you are speaking of the word in its purity, then yes).
What inspires you (as an artist)?
Personally, the most honest way I can answer this is: Hope, and loss of hope. Dreams, and loss of dreams. Life in all its splendour and horror! "Sombre Romantic" is a very personal album. For me, it is an outpouring of the soul.
Tell us some more about "Sombre Romantic" - how was its production, and regarding the Massacre Records release...
Everything on the album was executed by us. This includes financing, recording, mixing, producing, and artwork. It was originally released independently. We had a specific vision in mind, and worked very hard to achieve and perfect each individual detail necessary for every song. Thomas from Massacre Records showed much enthusiasm for the album, and I guess the rest is history! Massacre released "Sombre Romantic" in Europe, on June 25th, and so far, it has been quite promising.
I can imagine that you've been receiving a lot of response to the album.
The response has been phenomenal! It has only been a few months, and already much has been achieved. Reviews range from "Heavy oder was?" - a score of 12 out of 12, and 10 out of 12. "Orkus" - 10 out of 10. "Legacy" magazine - 14 out of 15, and "Rock Hard" - 8.5 out of 10. We are totally overwhelmed by the response.
Is the cover image a photograph? If yes, how was it taken?
Yes, all the artwork consists of photographs taken by me. I had a specific image in my mind, one which needed to compliment the title of the album. I experimented, and took the photographs in my own home. I am happy with the mood captured in the artwork. It all ties in together. "Sombre Romantic" - the romance of a cello, the hope within romance, yet the despondency of a darkened soul. "Virgin Black" - purity and the vileness of humanity. (It is possible to find this purity). Tragedy and hope. These are all encapsulated in the album. The individual photos were taken in this way to convey a message of frailty. Our vulnerability before God. A child-like soul. This is what is precious, and unfortunately rare.
Have you ever done or considered doing professional photography?
I have always dabbled in photography. If I had the time and the resources, I would love to take it further.
How does the Christian world respond to your band? Are you generally "accepted"?
The response varies (although it seems that America, in general, is notorious for attacking anything which does not conform to the ideal image). You would be amazed at some of the inane logic. It’s quite sad actually. But my heart does not care for this. Besides, I don't think anything would keep these people happy.
If someone asked you, "why so black", what would you answer?
God Himself clothes Himself in darkness. (I Kings 8:12 - "The Lord has said that He would dwell in the thick darkness.") If He can't be a God of my darkness, then His character is worthless. Life is filled with tragedy as well as hope. More than 70% of the Psalms consist of laments. It is simply humanity being honest before God, and before ourselves. One cannot go wrong with truth. I refuse to deny what is real in my life. (Since when has living in a fabricated world improved us as people?) When it comes to art, I have always appreciated the gothic era. It’s mysterious beauty found in architecture, poetry, paintings; it’s another form of expression. Many of the saints in those days specifically wore black to symbolise simplicity. Surely by now, we would have learned that that which is in your heart - your own personal "vows" - is what is most precious to God. One should be free to express their own character. Everyone is different. Variety is beautiful.
Who are your favourite artists (musically, and otherwise)?
Some of these include John Donne, Saviour Machine, Brahms, YoYo Ma, Candlemass (nightfall era), and many more!
What do you think about art in general - what is it for? There seems to be a certain fear of true art in the Christian world. Where do you think it comes from?
Art is personal expression, and implements a wide variety of sources to convey a message. I believe the true power and purity of Christianity has been incessantly suppressed by the religious institution. And this is perhaps where the fear stems from. We are taught rules and regulations and the truth of God's character is distorted. God is the greatest artist. We should feel free and encouraged to explore (without boundaries) what is inherent in His nature.
Any interesting future plans? Are you coming to Germany sometime?
We will commence recording our second album early next year, with the plan of its release mid 2002. Although it is a little early to confirm, a European tour is likely to follow to support this release. Germany is definitely on the cards.
Thank you for your precious time. Peace and Truth be with you all.
Interview by Patrick Maiwald, October 2001