BIGSOUND 2019 Artist Focus: Reliqa

Answered by: Shannon Griesberg - drummer

Give us a short description of your music: A complex and theatrical take on the alternative metal sound. Reliqa wield a unique blend of aggressive riffage and powerhouse female vocals to bridge gaps between a conceptual narrative and progressive soundscapes.

Which acts are on your must-see list at BIGSOUND? Our friends in RedHook are an absolute must-see while you have the chance - before they make international headlining waves! We're also excited to see DREGG and The Gloom In The Corner tear the walls down!

Why should people come and see you among the many amazing bands at BIGSOUND? We pace our play to create a dramatic and captivating atmosphere live. Keeping it intimate is key so you feel like you're part of the journey. Our frontwoman, Monique, is perhaps our great asset. She dominates the stage, using heavy riffs and pounding drums to her advantage.

What music trends do you think are dominating right now, and do you have any predictions for the coming year? In rock and metal music, there is an emerging relationship between the genres' traditional elements, and a more production-heavy, electronic focus. I think that a synthesis of different performing media and styles creates a product that strays from being generic. I can predict more weird, experimental material emerging very soon.

In your career to date, what have been the key watershed moments? Supporting Sevendust on their recent Aus tour was an absolute career highlight. We've also been lucky enough to play shows with Voyager from Perth and Dead Letter Circus from Brisbane this year. We've also attained a loyal fanbase since releasing our second EP Eventide, which has been truly magnificent.

What industry lessons would you like to take away from the BIGSOUND conference? Reliqa is looking forward to meeting with industry professionals to align our band's conduct with the scale of the broader Australian music scene. I personally am very excited to learn tools of the trade regarding playing larger shows, and the notoriety associated with high-profile Aussie tours.

What do you identify as the most pressing issue impacting the Australian music industry at present? In an age of digital platform domination, the line between artist, audience and industry has become extremely blurry. Streaming, alongside other technologies, has made it easier than ever to emerge as an independent music creator. The role of management is falling deeper into the hands of the artist.

What is the best bit of advice you've been given to prepare for your time at BIGSOUND? We've been told BIGSOUND is an opportunity to establish connections, opening possibilities to the band's greater potential. Myself and the rest of the band have been carefully planning our activities, discussing how we're going to use our time wisely by reaching out to those who can assist with our goals.

When and where is your BIGSOUND showcase? 3 Sep, Crowbar, 9.50pm; 5 Sep, The Elephant Hotel, 8.50pm.