WTM are a Seattle-based metal band making their international debut this week with their stunning new single, “Casanova”. We were honoured to have the opportunity to learn more about the band (and the story behind the new song) by catching up with vocalist/keytarist Hilma Josal, guitarist Ryan Josal and drummer Hakan Akkan, to ask a few questions. You can read our full conversation below:
So firstly, how did you come up with the name WTM?
Hilma: We decided on the name “WTM” using a bracket elimination process, starting with about 50 names.
Hakan: I wanted to find something goofy, but we all kept voting for it!
I noticed a few of you share the same surname too. I’m guessing there’s a relation?
Hilma: Ryan (guitar) and Mattt (guitar) are brothers. Ryan and I (vocals and keytar) are married. Joham (bass) and Hakan (drums) are practically brothers and feel like family to us all.
Ryan: I don’t mind following the footsteps of Van Halen and Pantera…
You originally started out as a local band in Seattle. How does it feel to release WTM’s first single “Casanova”, and showcase your music on a larger scale?
Hilma: Music unites people. We are excited to meet music lovers, hear what other people create, and contribute to the music that fuels us.
Ryan: It’s a tentpole in a city of castles, and something to build on!
The lyrics of “Casanova” are based on the story of an abusive relationship. How hard was it for you to compose this song, and do you worry about performing the composition to a live audience someday?
Hilma: It was difficult and I am definitely scared, but I’m also excited to be brave. This is a chance for me to be my own hero and to describe things like limerence in a creative way. Maybe I can help others as great musicians have helped me!
The artwork for the single is an oil painting that you produced, and is equally powerful as it symbolizes the idea of the mask falling and the capacity for people to present fake personas. It feels as though this message is particularly relevant today. Based on your experiences, what advice can you give to help detect when someone else is not being genuine?
Hilma: I don’t recommend it, but if you look backwards at the person’s actions and record their indiscretions, there will be discrepancies. I developed PTSD from getting my mind blown by the truth and struggle with it every day. I cracked the code, but like Frodo, I’m never the same after holding the One Ring. Don’t take the Red Pill. Run away and focus on what you love.
In addition to working in WTM, you are also the founder of Artistry for the Brave. Can you discuss your background and career as an artist, and what things typically inspire your work?
Hilma: It takes bravery to be an artist and Artistry for the Brave is for equally brave people that would trust me to paint their loved ones. I love to paint faces and hands, epic battles and charging horses, flowing locks and piercing eyes. I am a Shield Maiden through and through.
You mention wanting to bridge the gap between Thrash Metal and Classical on your website. I can certainly hear elements of both genres in “Casanova”, what with the classical keyboards and vocals on one hand, and the crushing riffs on the other. Is this fusion something that just developed naturally, or was it planned?
Hilma: We figured out our process pretty naturally. Mattt is always writing the tastiest jams. He starts the whole process by writing the Thrash Metal riffs that inspire Ryan to build on and then we all write the accompaniments that come from our mostly classical roots. Lastly, I write the melodies on top using improvisation.
Ryan: We are a band first, and it is a goal to bring together our diverse influences so that the result is something new. I feel we’ve landed that with Casanova.
I love to paint faces and hands, epic battles and charging horses, flowing locks and piercing eyes. I am a Shield Maiden through and through.
Hilma Josal
Some harsh vocals also make an appearance in “Casanova”. Who is responsible for these parts within the track? Is that still Hilma singing or is it another member?
Hilma: Ryan sings too! He is the lead in an old fan favorite, High Noon.
Ryan: It’s a gang vocal, Hilma is crushing it there too!
One of the videos on your YouTube channel is a live cover version of Nightwish’s “Come Cover Me”. I have a serious fondness for the “Wishmaster” album. Would you say this era of the band has been one of the major influences on your music?
Hilma: Yes. Everyone in our band loves that album. It is a work of art. Tarja gave me the courage to sing with my natural voice.
“Casanova” was mixed by Paul Pavao (DREAM THEATER, DISTURBED) and mastered by Ted Jensen (PANTER, GOJIRA). How important was it to get both their involvement in terms of nailing the correct sound and production quality for the track?
Hilma: Without Paul Pavao or Ted Jensen, we wouldn’t have a clear sound concept. They are the best!
Ryan: It was important to us to get to work with the engineers that created our favorite albums.
It’s clear that WTM are just getting started on their journey, so what sort of things can we expect to see from you next? Are you considering a tour?
Hilma: WTM is releasing a full album, putting together some tour dates, and competing for Wacken Metal Battle. Wish us luck!
Ryan: We have great new songs we can’t wait to share. Expect to see us out in early 2025!
Thanks again for chatting with us. Is there anything else you would like to share?
Hilma: Joham is from Matanzas, Cuba and Hakan is from Turkey!
Ryan: Thank you!
