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Letallis is a trio from New York, New York that self-describes as Metal from the Empire State, get to know them through the words of vocalist/guitarist Jake Calonius:
What are the origins of Letallis, how long have you been playing together?
The band was formed back in 2006 during high school in New Jersey. After releasing our first album “The World Awakened” and gigging around during those 4 years we went our separate ways. I (Jake) moved back to NYC and after some time made the second album “Resonate”. After finding new members to play with live the band had its second iteration in 2017 and have been playing live since then.
What should people expect when they check the band out? How would you describe Letallis?
High-energy, crafted songs that take the listener on a journey. I always like to emphasize melody amongst driving riffs. In addition, I like to try and incorporate a lot of dynamics in each song to help convey the story.
How did you feel performing your first gig as a band, and how was it?!
Our high school’s talent show night was our first time performing live, and our first real gig was at a venue called Hamilton Street (no longer there). It was amazing enough to get me hooked for life!
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
We just released two singles off our latest EP called “A Thousand And One Nights – Chapter 1”. The next two singles will be released in the next two months. Streaming everywhere!
Regarding a similar audience, which band at the minute do you feel Letallis would be best suited to open for?
Bands like Sylosis and Opeth. Both are quite different but I think we could be a good fit for a wide range of bands.
Excluding yourself, which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
I’m good friends with the band Solemn Vision. They’re another fantastic Brooklyn-based metal band that has put a lot of blood/sweat/tears into their craft.
What frustrates you about the music business?
As an up-and-coming band, it’s a bit scary to see the financial hardships that come with growing and taking bigger steps as a band. But as of now getting over my hesitation to dive into the business side has actually made it more empowering. Being realistic and saying “OK, if we want to achieve/do this, how can we realistically meet that goal?”.
What are your first musical memories? And what lightbulb moment made you go “I want to do that”?
Listening to music my parents would play as a kid and always enjoying it. They got me started playing guitar at the age of 7. Eventually, at 13 I started taking it more seriously and once I played my first show I was hooked.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
I just saw Wilderun/Omnium Gathering/Insomnium tour and it was a melodeath masterclass!
What current social issue are you particularly passionate about?
I’m always concerned about the environment and its impending effects. Treating the planet better = survival.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
I listen to a pretty wide range of music but I’d say as of late the artist Pale Jay’s album “Bewilderment”. Super soulful R&B.
Everybody is a fan of something, who or what are you a fan of?
I’m a big fan of any artist that really expresses themselves. It’s always inspiring to see someone just be themselves unapologetically. I think that type of art is infectious.
What new music have you been enjoying so far this year?
A lot but one that’s stood out is a band from the Ukraine called White Ward. Their latest album “False Light” has absolutely captivated me. It’s ambient film noire black metal. It’s incredible.
What does 2024 hold for Letallis?
More music is still to come and gigs to follow! Also hopefully shooting a fun music video for one of the singles.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
Instagram is our main page, but we’re on all fronts of social media. Working on an only fans page!
