If you think about the varied music scene surrounding the Hawaiian Islands, metalcore might not be the very first genre that comes to your mind. But four-piece Skylene from Honolulu might be altering that perception. Formed in 2011 with Alex Tirgardoon on drums, Damien Durazo on vocals, Cole Strona on bass, Julian Bozzelli on guitar songwriter and Eric Rivera-Medeiros on live guitar, the band play melody driven metalcore with strong live performances. They have spent hours perfecting their sound and skills, influenced by Northlane, Invent Animate and others, but have their own sound. Skylene have established themselves in the sometimes overwhelming world of metalcore music with catchy songs and unforgettable stage shows.
Origin and Evolution
Skylene started their musical adventure, driven by passion and determination, in 2011. They hail from Honolulu and quickly turned into a rising metalcore band. It had been a coincidence that the band was created from similar minded people with a common dream. Each member brought to the table not just musical proficiency but creative vision. Alex Tirgardoon on drums, Damien Durazo on vocals, Cole Strona on bass and Julian Bozzelli on guitar produced an energetic sound that was likewise fresh. The addition of Eric Rivera-Medeiros as the live guitarist only made the live performances even more energetic. Skylene explored new musical territory and boundaries and found a sound that suited her audience. This evolved as they produced authentic songs with themes of hope and resilience.
The Musical Influence
Skylene could be the product of their musical influences but they’re a lot more. Where bands like Northlane, Invent Animate, ERRA and Counterparts offered a template, Skylene explores melody and metalcore. They might have heavy riffs with strong vocals and underlying melodies. This music adds depth to the metalcore genre, refreshing familiar themes with innovative concepts. Skylene doesn’t just duplicate what has been done but reinvent it to provide something totally new for their listeners. It’s the creativeness and readiness to experiment which has set them apart and has guaranteed a loyal following eager for their following releases.
Live Performances and Reception
Live performances are crucial to any band and are central to Skylene’s identity. Their exciting shows have earned them a track record of creating high energy performances. This particular commitment to providing memorable live music has helped them gain fans far outside their hometown. Each performance is much more than playing music – it is about engaging with the audience in a genuine manner which transcends the typical concert experience and also changes everyday listeners to devoted fans. The energy, enthusiasm and ability displayed on stage are the culmination of years of hard work and commitment. They have chemistry with their audience which produces memorable experiences and momentum to keep making potent, relevant music. No wonder their performances leave an impression on those present and make them eager for the next musical installment from Skylene.
The Resonance of “Absence”
The centerpiece of Skylene’s catalog is their track “Absence” (, available here). This track represents Skylene’s style and also includes elements of their musical journey. The song has fans because it expresses the psychological depth and lyrical poignancy that accompany the human quest for hope amid struggles. The songwriting reflects themes of absence and longing, delivered within a resonant metalcore sound that stirs and delights listeners. The track is a reflection of their growing as musicians and an introduction to new listeners to Skylene.
If you want to dive deeper into Skylene’s world and witness the power of melodic metalcore yourself, check them out on Instagram, Facebook, and listen to their music on Spotify. Experience the passion and creativity that this band brings to the metalcore scene—and don’t miss out on the track “Absence.” Let Skylene’s music be your companion as you explore the layers of metal, melody, and emotion that define their sound.
