Malignea is a Portuguese metal band that quickly established itself as one of the most consistent and original acts in their country’s underground scene. Founded in 2021, the project brings together experienced musicians with a long history in the Gothic and Doom metal scene. We are going to have an in-depth interview about the foundation band, their music journey so far and the plans about the future. Hello guys and welcome to our web zine.
Hello and thank you for having us! It’s a pleasure to be part of Metal War.
1) We are eager to know from where did you get inspired for the band’s name?
The name Malignea comes from the idea of something that grows quietly in the shadows, slowly but inevitably. We were drawn to the word because it carries a sense of decay, darkness, and transformation — themes that are deeply present in our music and lyrics. Additionally, Malignea is a word/name we invented; you won’t find it in any dictionary. It’s a blend of Malignus and Ignea, which makes it a unique name. By combining those two words, Malignea effectively can be
translated to something like “Evil Fire” or “Wicked Flame”.
2) What was the opportunity that brought you all together?
We all crossed paths through the Portuguese underground scene over the years. Different bands, different projects, but a shared vision. At some point, it became clear that we wanted to create something slower, darker, and more narrative-driven — Malignea was the natural result of that convergence.
3) From which bands did you get inspired?
Our influences come from many places: classic Doom and Gothic metal bands, dark folk, and even non-metal artists. Bands like My Dying Bride, Paradise Lost, Draconian, and Moonspell played a role, but folklore, literature, and cinema are just as important to our creative process.
4) One of the strengths of the band are the lyrics in your mother tongue, Portuguese. Why did you
make such a choice?
Portuguese carries a very specific emotional weight. Since our stories are rooted in our land, our culture, and our collective memory, it felt natural to use our own language. Even if listeners don’t understand every word, the emotion and atmosphere still come through.
5) You are a dominant force in the Portuguese underground scene. In your opinion, what is the key to your success?
Consistency and honesty. We never rush releases, and we don’t follow trends. Everything we do comes from a genuine place, and we believe people can feel that. The underground scene values authenticity above all else.
6) “Malignea” (2023) was your debut album. Which songs are the most representative of your sound?
The debut album captures the core of Malignea — heavy, melancholic, and introspective. A few key tracks represent that balance between Doom weight and Gothic atmosphere, showing the foundations of what we would later expand on in A Aldeia.
7) “A Aldeia” (2025) is a concept album inspired by Portuguese folklore. Was it difficult to create songs from those stories?
It was challenging, but in a very rewarding way. The difficulty wasn’t a lack of inspiration — quite the opposite. The challenge was choosing what to tell and how to translate oral traditions and superstition into music without losing their essence.
8) If you could turn back in time, would you make any changes to the songs you wrote so far?
Not really. Each song represents who we were at that moment. Even imperfections are part of that journey, and we see them as necessary steps rather than mistakes.
9) Have you made any arrangements for a European tour or festival appearances?
We are actively working on live opportunities, both in Portugal and abroad. Festivals and selected shows are definitely part of our plans, and we’re approaching live performances with the same care and atmosphere as our studio work.
10) Have you got a message for the Greek Metal community?
Absolutely. The Greek metal scene has always shown incredible passion and resilience. We deeply respect that spirit and hope to share a stage with Greek bands and audiences very soon. Thank you for supporting underground metal — it truly matters.
Official links
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Malignea.Oficial
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/malignea.oficial/
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@maligneaoficial
Bandcamp – https://maligneaoficial.bandcamp.com/
