So how has your latest album/EP gone so far with fans then?
The response to The Book of Pain has been overwhelmingly positive. While live performances of the new songs haven’t happened yet due to the international nature of the band, fans have deeply connected with the album’s themes of grief, resilience, and transformation. The LP version, in particular, has been well received, marking a significant milestone as ELOAĦ’s first-ever vinyl release. Listeners have expressed appreciation for its emotional depth and the way it balances raw intensity with moments of hope and renewal.
Tell us something about the release no one knows?
One lesser-known fact about The Book of Pain is that some of its vocal recordings come from sessions that took place over two decades ago. The song Golden Summer (Girl to Adore), for example, features vocals from the late Jörg Horner, a past collaborator whose voice was recorded many years ago. His inclusion in the album adds a deeply personal and irreplaceable layer of meaning to the project, making it feel like a bridge between past and present.
If you could work with any band on a new song, who would it be and why?
If I could collaborate with any band, it would be Savatage, particularly with Jon Oliva. His ability to blend poetic storytelling with powerful and emotionally driven music aligns closely with the vision of ELOAĦ. Savatage’s fusion of theatrical elements with rock music has always been inspiring, and a collaboration would allow us to explore new sonic landscapes while keeping the deep, introspective essence of our songwriting intact.
How has your latest release been received?
As stated in the answer to your first question, The Book of Pain has been received very well, both critically and by fans. The album represents a more introspective and heavier direction for ELOAĦ, tackling deep themes of grief, longing, and resilience. The release of the LP edition was a particularly exciting moment, marking our first venture into vinyl production. Fans have apparently connected with the album, and some have shared that their enthusiasm about the music.
Can you tell us about the meaning behind the track?
Among the 17 tracks on The Book of Pain, one of the most personal tracks on the album, A Spark of Darkness, was inspired by the loss of my dear friend Michael Görig. The song is named after his unfinished novel and reflects on the inner conflict between despair and resilience. Its lyrics explore the tension of being consumed by grief while searching for meaning. Musically, the track captures this duality with a haunting arrangement, making it one of the emotional highlights of the album for me.
What tours do you have coming up, and what can you tell us about them?
At the moment, ELOAĦ does not have a tour planned, as the band operates as an international collaboration with members in different countries. However, we are exploring possibilities for live performances in the future. While many of our musicians are actively involved in live projects outside of ELOAĦ, we hope to bring our music to audiences in a live setting when the opportunity presents itself.
What venue are you most looking forward to playing the most, and why?
Since ELOAĦ has not yet performed in its current formation, I would love to play at an intimate venue that allows for a deep emotional connection with the audience. A dream setting would be a historic theatre or a unique acoustic space that enhances the intricate layers of our music. Creating a shared experience with the audience in such a venue would certainly be an unforgettable moment.
What else can we expect from you in 2025?
In 2025, we will working on a new album that explores a blend of gospel, jazz, and hymn-inspired sounds, an exciting departure from our previous work. We are also continuing to evolve creatively and experiment with new styles, all while maintaining the introspective and emotionally driven nature of our music. Depending on how things develop, we may also explore opportunities for live performances. Above all, listeners can expect music that remains deeply personal and pushes new creative boundaries.