Photo by Fida Gothik
For over fifteen years and more than 250 live shows across 25 countries, Swiss darkwave stalwarts The Beauty of Gemina have cemented their reputation, from their Swiss homeland to the distant shores of Europe, Central, and South America.
Michael Sele, the creative nucleus of The Beauty of Gemina, juggles multiple roles: songwriter, lead vocalist, arranger, and producer. His lyrics delve into the stark realities of suicide, depression, loneliness, and societal critique. Each composition is a visceral exploration of the human condition, providing listeners with a profound cathartic experience. Sele’s uncanny ability to infuse his music with raw emotion has not only defined the band’s unique sound but also earned them a loyal global following.
The album’s second single, “Veil Of Rain,” stands out with its atmospheric density and emotional heft. The haunting lyrics, exploring themes of longing, dreams, and the pursuit of truth, are underpinned by an indelible melody. Sele’s distinct voice and nuanced guitar work imbue the track with a haunting depth.
“Veil of Rain” conjures a poetic tableau of a dancer twirling in the rain, her eyes gleaming, her breaths futile. Dreams linger on the streets, drawing a crowd of dreamers, believers, and seekers. Amongst them, the singer’s guitar serenades, a tribute to someone special. The imagery evokes a deep emotional resonance, intertwining music, and movement to weave a tale of connection and yearning.
The accompanying video features a ballerina pirouetting through the rooms, corridors, and stairwells of a decaying gothic manor, its walls echoing with the ghosts of a somber history. Secrets linger as she dances to the song’s whispered vocals, strumming guitars, and pulsating synths.
Watch the video for “Veil Of Rain” below:
Listen to the song below and order here.
Four years have passed since their last studio release, Skeleton Dreams—years marked by a global pandemic, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and a climate crisis. The Beauty of Gemina’s forthcoming album, Songs Of Homecoming, is set for release on 13 September 2024.
“I want to create an album that captures the essence of coming home and the magic of reunion, a kind of diary of my own journey home,” says Sele.
On stage, Michael Sele’s commanding presence is a linchpin of the band’s live performances, complemented by the dynamic drumming of TBOG veteran Mac Vinzens, Andi Zuber on bass, and Daniel Manhart on keyboards.
Founded in 2006 after the dissolution of Sele’s previous band, Nuuk, The Beauty of Gemina made an immediate impact with their debut album, which featured the goth hit Suicide Landscape. Over the years, their 250 live shows across 25 countries have included high-profile gigs supporting The Smashing Pumpkins and performances at renowned festivals like Wave-Gotik-Treffen and M’era Luna. Their music blends elements of electronic rock, metal, and classical music, often incorporating samples from Mozart’s works.
As they continue to tour and release new tracks, The Beauty of Gemina remains a potent force in the alternative music scene, revered for their artistic depth and innovative approach.
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