We had the pleasure of speaking with Seething Akira to discuss their highly anticipated fourth album, Cancel Estate, which promises to deliver the most dynamic and ambitious work of their career thus far. Known for their high-energy blend of electronic and metal elements, the band has grown both sonically and personally over the years.
They open up about the evolution of their sound, the creative process behind their latest release, and how live performances continue to shape their music. From behind-the-scenes stories to upcoming tour plans, Seething Akira offers fans an inside look into their world as they prepare for the release.
Your upcoming 4th album is generating a lot of buzz. What can fans expect from this record, and how does it differ from the band’s previous releases?
This release is a lot more confident. We're a lot more settled as a band. We did quite a hard pivot when creating Dysfunctional Wonderland (Our second album). We were still finding our place creatively and as individuals. Nozomi (Album 3) was the sound of a band that knew the direction they were heading in and had solidified through a lot of touring. Cancel Estate (album 4) is the sound of 6 people who instinctively know what to do and how to contribute. It's heavier, poppier, dancey-er, just more everything-er!
You mentioned that this album is the best work you’ve created so far. What elements or experiences contributed to making it your most ambitious project yet?
Any performance is a dialogue between the creator and the audience. We've been lucky enough to play a lot of shows on some incredible stages to some amazing crowds and we've tried to take what works in a live setting and apply it to our studio work. Also, we're closer as a unit and really supportive of each other. There's very little fear of vulnerability which allows us to take the breaks off creatively. It's a very honest record and we hope it connects with people in the same way our live shows do.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes stories from the recording process of this new album?
There's a guitar solo on one of the new tracks Ixnay. Initially it was very shreddy, very over the top and it divided the band whether it was appropriate for the song. Everyone had a strong opinion and while it never become a moment of contention, it got a little heated. Our long-time producer Oz Craggs (Hidden Track Studio) stepped in like all good producers and was able to help articulate the spirit of his original while making it more palatable to an SA audience. It's become one of our favourite moments on the album and arguably the high point of the song.
Touring is always a big part of promoting a new album cycle. Can fans expect an upcoming tour announcement soon to promote the new release?
Absolutely. We have some big shows in the pipeline and a UK tour, so hit us up on our social media accounts to stay updated!
How does performing live influence your songwriting and recording process, if at all?
We try and be observant. What works, what doesn't. What gets people going. Playing shows is our favourite part of being in a band, so we try and create songs written with a live audience in mind. More and more, people are singing our lyrics back to us so we really want to give people more of an opportunity to participate. It's such a rush to see an audience with the same enthusiasm for a song you have.
Your relationship with Bloodstock has been a significant part of your journey. What did it mean to you to perform a DJ set at this year’s festival, especially after opening the main stage last year?
The Bloodstock fam have been incredible to us and we were beyond flattered to be asked back as DJ's. Opening the main stage was a dream come true for us and frankly an honour. Bloodstock really is a community festival. We can't think of anyone else that does more and gives more for young, unsigned bands in the rock/metal scene than Bloodstock.
How did you approach creating a DJ set compared to a live band performance?
It's very similar. It's about creating and building enthusiasm and energy. It's important to start and end big. Also, we really like the connection we have with our audience so we try and add a little humour and personality to what we do.
Portsmouth has been a great home base for Seething Akira. How has the city influenced your music and your journey as a band?
Portsmouth is a naval city. Very working class with a strong, DIY work ethic. You're raised with a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. No-one is going to give anything to you, so you have to work twice as hard to get it. We think we have applied that to how we work as a band. Also, there's also no tolerance for egos. Either in or out the band. We are neither above or below anyone we're in contact with.
Your music often delves into themes of anger, despair, and defiance. How do you channel these emotions into your music, and what message do you hope to convey to your listeners?
Ones of positivity. We feel our lyrics confront negativity but are never dragged under by them. We like to think we're aggressively optimistic. We acknowledge that bad stuff happens and will continue to happen but the only way out is through and we feel we like to encourage that.
With four albums under your belt and a strong presence in the scene, what advice would you give to up-and-coming bands trying to carve out their own niche in the music industry?
Enjoy the moment, lose the ego and be polite and enjoyable to work with. Also, don't stop. You'll never succeed if you quit.
Listen to Seething Akira here.
Follow them on social media here.