Exploring Age and Maturity in Music

The Journey of Self-Discovery

Age and maturity are significant factors in personal growth, but they do not necessarily lead to a descent into miserabilism. Zelli, the frontman of Paleface, reflects on his evolution: “When you’re young and full of hate and rage, you want to shock everyone. But as you grow up, you realize that life feels more beautiful.”

Finding Beauty in Darkness

For Zelli, understanding life’s beauty doesn’t mean that dark days become less challenging. Instead, he emphasizes that maturity allows for new ways to confront and experience darkness. “You find new people around you to help bring back the light. It almost makes the darkness beautiful again!” he muses, highlighting the transformative power of hope and companionship.

Creative Freedom in Songwriting

Paleface maintains a philosophy where no idea is off-limits during their songwriting and studio sessions. This open-minded approach has led to unique tracks like “Love Burns,” which unexpectedly transitions from Slipknot-style nu-metal to a Yannick-driven power metal outro. Such creative exploration has been crucial for Zelli, who has recently discovered his vocal abilities, particularly in the haunting track “River Of Sorrows.”

The Validation of Artistic Expression

“I’ve always wanted to be a really good singer,” Zelli admits. He expresses admiration for acoustic artists over metal vocalists, and the positive response to “River Of Sorrows” has been incredibly validating. “It’s wild that our two or three most streamed tracks include our loudest, heaviest song and our softest, quietest,” he notes. This diversity in their music reassures him of their capability to explore various musical styles.

Staying True to Their Vision

Despite the positive reception from fans, Zelli emphasizes that external opinions do not dictate their creative process. “I try not to read the comments and to stay away from the internet generally,” he shares. His focus remains on authenticity and the joy of making music with friends and family. “Our ultimate goal is to be as diverse and as successful as possible, but only as long as we can enjoy the journey,” he adds.

Aiming for the Top with a Smile

Zelli is committed to taking Paleface as far as they can go, but insists it must be on their own terms. “Of course we want to reach the top of the world, but only if we can do it with a smile!” he concludes, highlighting the importance of happiness in their artistic journey.

Conclusion

Paleface’s journey reflects a profound understanding of life’s complexities and the beauty found in its darker moments. Their commitment to creative freedom and authenticity resonates deeply within the music community, proving that age and maturity can lead to a richer, more rewarding artistic expression.

FAQs

What is the main theme of Zelli’s reflections on maturity?

Zelli emphasizes that maturity brings a deeper appreciation of life, allowing individuals to find beauty even in darkness.

How does Paleface approach songwriting?

Paleface believes that no musical idea is off-limits, leading to a diverse range of styles and unexpected transitions in their songs.

What role does fan feedback play in Paleface’s music?

While Zelli appreciates fan support, he prioritizes staying true to the band’s vision and maintaining happiness over external validation.

When is Paleface’s upcoming tour?

Paleface will embark on a full UK tour in January 2026, promoting their latest release, “Cursed: The Complete Edition.”