When fantasy meets music, and especially Rock and Metal music, great things happen. And that’s the case for Illusions Of Grandeur. We had the chance to chat with IOG’s vocalist, Maggie Carlton to learn more about her band, their music, and her views on different things.
Read our interview with Maggie Carlton before and do not forget to check her band’s music if you haven’t yet.
Hello Maggie. How is the mighty siren doing these days?
Hello, I am doing well. We just got back from the first leg of the “Sirens & Demons” tour. It was cold, but still, a great time travelling up and down the East coast with my band. We had a fun time taking in the local scenes, food, and people from place to place.
You released your new album in October last year. How are you feeling about the reception this album received from your fans?
The fans and response have been amazing! I’m overwhelmed by all the listeners, wonderful comments, and it’s been very interesting hearing what are people’s favorite songs.
If you were to describe your band to our readers who haven’t heard of your music yet, what would you tell them to expect if they go check your music right now?
Our music is fantasy, theatrical metal peppered with some hard rock. Lyrically, the songs tell a story using Greek and Norse mythology, mixed with my own personal experiences to create a double-entendre. My hope is that the listener can enjoy the storyline, however, be able to pull each song out of its lineup, listen, and appreciate it all on its own. This way if you don’t know the story, or don’t care to, one can still enjoy our music song to song.
Your band’s concept is already set in a fantasy world so you will enjoy this game I usually like to play. I will set a scenario in an alternate universe with different rules than ours and ask you a question about it.
In a universe where you’re the ruler of a country, what would be an interesting law you’d make?
Not sure how to answer this one. I’m not political at all, so I don’t know that I’d make a great ruler. I think kindness and compassion are heavily lacking, so actually treating others as you’d want to be treated would be a good overall rule I guess.
In a universe where humans are born with superpowers related to their personalities, what would your superpower be?
Lol, another tough question. A superpower based on my personality? Hmm…strong but accepting and kind. Is that a superpower? Strong-Willed/Kind Super Siren lol
In a universe where all the songs from “The Siren” came to life, which one would be your best friend?
Wow, these questions are interesting. The songs in the entire saga will eventually “come to life” in a short film/musical theatre of sorts. It’s hard to say which will be my “best friend” as all of these songs engage different aspects, feelings, time periods, emotions from my life, and of course the storyline I have created. With that said, it makes it difficult to pick just one. In this very moment, I think “Upon my Life” would have to be my first choice. It inhabits the trials I’ve been through in my life, entangled with the double-entendre aspect of the storyline. Hidden under the imagery of the Siren’s story, are real-life situations that I have been through, that could have easily made one succumb, however, I chose to find the strength from within and embrace the Witch and the Siren that I am to ultimately overcome.
In a universe where the currency is the person’s sense of humour, how rich would you be?
Extremely! I have a great sense of humour, and am often clowning around with my band, making everyone laugh.
In a universe where the senses of taste and hearing are mixed up, what food would Illusions of Grandeur’s music taste like?
Spicy but enjoyable.
Thank you for playing, Maggie!
You’re welcome.
Do you remember the first time you performed in front of a live audience? How did it feel?
Yes, I do in fact. I was a very little girl. I’ve been in music my entire life, thanks to my dad. It was scary and exciting all at the same time. I had practiced and practiced, and my grandmother made me my colorfully loud outfit. My palms were sweaty and my voice shook. The lights were hot, and time seemed to stop. I remember thinking, look directly over the tops of everyone’s head. As nervous as I was, as soon as it was over I wanted to do it again. I’ve been on stage ever since.
Have you ever been treated in a sexist manner? How would you have sexism and what advice would you give to young people who deal with any kind of discrimination?
This is a touchy subject, but simply answered, yes. I’ve been treated in a sexist manner. I don’t really want to elaborate too much on this subject as I don’t care to be judged on my opinion. I wouldn’t have sexism. People shouldn’t be valued on their sex, rather their character and what they do. Actions speak louder than words. Surround yourself with like-minded people, understand that you’re not going to be compatible with everyone, walk with love and light in your heart, and do not accept people who choose to undermine or undervalue your worth.
Thank you for the interview, Maggie. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Thank you for the interview! As I say often, there would be no Illusions of Grandeur without the support of all of our fans, friends, and family. We truly appreciate each and every one of you!
