Behold, the Tarantella is a project of 24 year old Matty Apel who released his debut EP “Resonance” last year, and have just put out two singles for his upcoming full length titled “The Particle Rendition.” Matty is also involved with a band Phi, and about this all he talks in an interview with Progarchy.
How would you describe the first two singles taken from the upcoming album “The Particle Rendition”?
I would have to describe them as experimental in many ways. Each song is part of a developmental process in my writing style. I’m experimenting with different techniques I’ve learned and taught myself over time while trying to allow them to fit the story line I have in place for this album.
What can be expected from the rest of the material that will take place on “The Particle Rendition”?
Quite a bit, actually. The plan is for it to be a concept album that not only has in depth description of what’s taking place, but has music guiding your emotions through each scenario in the album. I want people to really paint a picture of what’s happening.
I suppose that you record your music in a home studio environment. What are the drawbacks and benefits of working in such surrounding?
Is it that easy to pick up on? Haha! Honestly, I don’t really find any drawbacks in recording my own music. I don’t have a time frame to record my music and I have the ability to mix and master it the way I want it. It’s not perfect, but I’d take it over something that’s been over-processed.
What are the themes you explore in your lyrics?
“Resonance” was all about the expansion of your mind and becoming comfortable in the body you inhabit. “The Particle Rendition” will still touch on that subject, but will go further by giving you a storyline and characters to follow. I’m basically writing this new album as a movie script or a play. At this point in time, I don’t want to reveal too much about the story and the ideas I’m playing around with, but I’m hoping to make it well worth the wait.
How much the music you make is the actual reflection of your personality?
I particularly enjoy this question, because art should be a reflection of who you are in some way. That’s why we all seem to have our own unique touch on the things we do. I’d like to say that the music is a pretty good reflection of who I am and the things that cross my mind on a daily basis.
Are you satisfied with Behold, the Tarantella’s position, and what would you love to change and improve?
It may seem cheesy, but I’m extremely satisfied with my current position, because I’ve gathered a larger fan base than with any other previous project. 500 likes on Facebook may not seem like much, but I’m grateful for every single one of them. So THANK YOU to all of you fans out there. I really appreciate all of you.
Have you ever experienced those moments when a song, or an album can change your views on something?
All of the time! Painted in Exile’s “Revitalized” is the best example, because the chorus contains a metaphor that I live by every day. The Contortionist’s album “Language” is also another incredible album that really spoke to me on a personal level. The flow of the music was extremely beautiful as well.
What do you do in your every-day life?
My life consists of music, video games, hanging out with my girlfriend and other friends, enjoying nature and the outdoors, chilling with my cats. I take it all day by day and I’m just grateful for what I have, because I know it’s more than some other people have even though it may not seem like much.
Are you involved in any other bands or projects beside Behold, the Tarantella?
I actually am involved in another project. The project is called “Phi”. We are a 5-piece band with influences like Animals as Leaders, The Contortionist, The Helix Nebula, Plini, and many more. You can check us out on our Facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/PhiBandia
What do you think about djent?
If it’s music, I give it a chance. I’ve jammed Meshuggah, Volumes, and Aristeia to name a few. I really enjoy the way they throw some crazy time signatures and tempo changes at you.
What are your plans by the end of the year?
My plans by the end of the year are to hopefully get out and play, release some new material, and just enjoy life. I haven’t been on the stage for over 3 years and it’s calling my name, so hopefully I can find a way to make things work out for both Behold, the Tarantella and Phi. A lot of people tend to set goals without enjoying the journey to hitting their goals, and I personally don’t want to be the kind of person that forgets what it took to get there.
Listen to Behold, the Tarantella on Bandcamp, and like the project on Facebook. You can also follow Matty’s other band Phi on Facebook.



