Feature: Derev Decodes “Cyclone”
What was the creative process like for this particular song?
“Cyclone” was the second song we wrote from the upcoming album. The writing process started off exactly how the track started, with the repeating clean guitar motif. During a jam session Armando stumbled on the idea and Michel instantly saw potential in it. From there, through many iterations, we structured the song keeping in mind how the vocal melodies would tie it all together. Once the main parts of the song were done, we focused on the lyrical concept and vocal melodies.
How did you approach the arrangement and composition of the music for "Cyclone?"
On the surface “Cyclone” is a relatively simple song. The guitar plays a consistent rhythmic pattern throughout the song. The intention was for the bass to lead the song melodically and to be the element that shows the repeating pattern in a new light with every repetition. In contrast, the pre-chorus and the guitar solo sections are harmonically rich with a lot of changes.
What impact do you hope this song will have on your audience?
“Cyclone” is a ride, along with its lyric video we hope it takes the listeners on a trip and makes them reflect on their own negative thoughts that we all struggle with from time to time.
Can you tell us more about you as a band?
Derev started back in 2019 when childhood friends Michel and Armando reunited in Canada. It is a 5-piece band that combines prog rock and metal with music from our Arabic and Armenian roots. We released our first EP ‘Leap of Faith’ in 2021 and we’re now gearing up to release an album ‘Troubled Mind’ in March of this year!
Are there any upcoming projects or releases that you're particularly excited about?
There are so many moving pieces we’re hyped about. We have another single coming out next month and the album “Troubled Mind” on March 26 after that. We’ve worked so hard on this album and we can’t wait for people to hear it. We also have a few shows coming up around Ontario and Montreal, and we’ll be hitting the road in May 2025 for a 3-week tour across central and western Canada. We can’t wait!
