This will be your first time performing in Greece — what emotions or expectations do you have
ahead of the “Damnation Over Greece” tour?
It feels like a long-awaited encounter. We’ve always known the passion and fire of Greek audiences,
and now it’s finally time to experience it in person. “Damnation Over Greece” isn’t just a tour for us —
it’s a celebration of connection with our lost souls there. We’re coming with everything we have:
intensity, emotion, and that cinematic darkness that defines Godiva. Expect the unexpected.
Your live performances are known for their symphonic intensity. How do you balance
orchestral grandeur with the raw aggression of death metal on stage?
It’s a fine balance between chaos and elegance. We always aim to give a heavenly touch to
something deeply perverse — merging orchestral layers with raw, blackened death metal riffs. On
stage, it’s all about creating tension and release, a constant clash between beauty and brutality. The
orchestra elevates the aggression rather than softening it.
“Hubris” marked a milestone for Godiva — what message or concept do you feel resonates
the most with audiences during this album’s tour?
“Hubris” reflects the arrogance of mankind and the self-destructive nature of our own evolution.
People connect with that tension — the beauty of creation and the tragedy of excess. It’s a mirror to
our flaws, but also a cinematic journey through chaos, introspection, and transcendence. On this tour,
we’ve seen how that concept resonates deeply — it’s more than music; it’s emotion visualized.
Gemma Sofia Salvatori recently joined as your drummer. How has her presence influenced
your sound and dynamics both live and in the studio?
Gemma brought a new pulse to Godiva. She’s precise, powerful, and incredibly expressive behind the
kit. Her drumming added a new intensity and flow — especially live, where every hit feels like it’s part
of the orchestral heartbeat. In the studio, she gave the songs a dynamic range that pushed our sound
even further. She fits perfectly within the cinematic and extreme layers of what we do.
Greek audiences are known for their passionate metal scene. What are you most looking
forward to experiencing from your Greek fans?
That raw passion and energy that Greece is famous for. We’ve felt it from afar — through messages,
through the support — but living it on stage will be something special. We know Greek fans don’t just
watch a show; they live it. We can’t wait to feel that unity in chaos.
Each city in Greece has its own vibe — how do you adapt your setlist or stage energy for
different venues like Athens’ Temple or Larissa’s Skyland?
Every venue has its own soul. We like to read the atmosphere and adapt accordingly — sometimes
pushing the darker side harder, other times enhancing the cinematic or ritualistic aspect. Athens will
probably be intense and immersive, while in cities like Larissa, we might emphasize the theatrical and
grand side of our set. The essence remains the same, but the energy transforms with the crowd.
Your lyrics often explore existential and philosophical themes. What inspires your writing
process today compared to your early years?
Today, our writing comes from a place of observation rather than rebellion. The world has changed —
manipulation, decay, and illusion are everywhere — and that naturally feeds our creative process.
Peter, our vocalist, channels his vision through poetry, darkness, and philosophical reflection. He’s
one of the most intelligent yet shadowed minds I know, and his words give Godiva that unique
identity.
The European tour cycle for “Hubris” has been massive. Were there any particular moments or
shows that stood out as turning points for the band?
Several, actually. Playing festivals like Masters of Rock or Laurus Nobilis showed us how far this
project had evolved. Those performances felt like milestones — moments when the audience became
part of the cinematic experience we wanted to create. Every show on the “Damnation Over Europe”
run reaffirmed that Godiva had truly returned, sharper and more united than ever.
You’re already working on new material — can you give us a glimpse into the direction or
atmosphere of the next Godiva album?
Without revealing too much — it will go deeper into the cinematic horror aspect. Imagine the contrast
between divine beauty and absolute damnation. The orchestras will feel even more organic, and the
aggression more refined. It’s an evolution, not a repetition. Godiva will always sound like Godiva, but
with new shadows to explore.
If you could collaborate with a Greek musician or orchestra, who would it be and why?
Greece has an incredible cultural and musical depth — from traditional choirs to modern orchestras.
Collaborating with a Greek symphonic ensemble or someone who understands that balance between
myth and darkness would be fascinating. There’s something timeless in Greek art that resonates
perfectly with our world.
Finally, what should fans expect from “Damnation Over Greece” — and why should no one
miss these shows?
Because this tour is more than a concert — it’s an experience. It’s the collision of symphonic
grandeur, death metal chaos, and emotional storytelling. Every night will be a ritual where we bring
our universe to life for the Greek lost souls who’ve been waiting. Come and witness it — because
once you enter our world, there’s no turning back.
Interview by Andre Matos
Photos by João Fitas
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https://godivaofficial.bandcamp.com/
Godiva – All Seeing Eye (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0atOcBmF3c
Godiva – Faceless – Rock’N’Iaşi Fest Live Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-k2x_AwFF8
Godiva – The Meaning Of Life – Official video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgX0Vtnuakc
Godiva – Media God – Official video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiE5FqHX5e8
Godiva – Empty Coil – Official Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNYjj8T4V9A
