Having forged their path in the metal scene since 1999, Godiva captivated audiences with their original sound and powerful performances. Ahead of their memorable show at Spears of Wallachia Festival in Quantic Club, Bucharest, the band shared insights into the songs that first ignited their love for metal, the highs and lows of their journey, and the deep connections they formed with fans along the way.
Godiva
© João Fitas
DinÎntunerec: Greetings! What a pleasure it is to have you with us today. Let us start from the beginning. What’s the first metal song you remember hearing that made you fall in love with the genre?
Godiva: Each of us had a different introduction to metal, and that’s part of what makes our sound unique today. For some of us, it was the raw energy and power of early thrash tracks that pulled us in, while others were captivated by the storytelling and atmospheric elements of symphonic and doom metal. That diversity in influences has been instrumental in shaping who we are as a band. Metal has such a rich spectrum of styles, and we each found our place within that spectrum. It was that initial exposure to diverse subgenres—whether it was the aggression of thrash, the complexity of progressive metal, or the grandeur of symphonic metal—that truly drew us in. We believe this varied foundation not only adds depth to our sound but also keeps us open-minded and willing to experiment.
DinÎntunerec: Your journey as a band has been quite fascinating, from forming in 1999 to your evolution over the years. Can you share some of the highs and challenges during this long span?
Godiva: Our journey has definitely been one of evolution. Some of our greatest highs were performing at major festivals like Vagos Metal Fest, where we played with a live orchestra, and seeing the incredible energy of thousands of fans. Bringing that orchestral element to a metal setting was an ambitious leap, but it paid off massively, creating an atmosphere that felt almost otherworldly. Another highlight was releasing our latest album “Hubris” independently, which gave us a sense of accomplishment and creative freedom that we had always strived for. There have, of course, been challenges along the way—like finding our identity amidst lineup changes and adapting to shifts in the music industry. The music landscape is constantly changing, and we’ve had to evolve alongside it while staying true to our sound. There were moments of uncertainty, especially when we were navigating changes within the band, but those challenges taught us valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of creative integrity. Every hurdle we faced only deepened our commitment to our craft, and that perseverance is reflected in our music.
DinÎntunerec: What’s the most rewarding aspect of being in Godiva after all these years?
Godiva: The connection with our fans is undoubtedly the most rewarding aspect. Seeing our music resonate with people from different parts of the world, and hearing stories of how a song has touched someone’s life or given them strength, is incredibly humbling. Knowing that our lyrics or melodies have provided comfort, inspiration, or even just a sense of solidarity makes everything worthwhile. Beyond that, the creative freedom we enjoy as a band and the sense of collaboration we have while writing and performing are equally fulfilling. We cherish the journey of taking an idea—whether it’s a riff, a lyric, or even a simple emotion—and developing it into something tangible that can move others. The joy of transforming ideas into something that resonates both on record and live on stage, and experiencing those songs evolve through different performances, is incomparable. Every time we step onto a stage, we feel that rush of energy—it’s as if the music takes on a life of its own, breathing and growing with every performance. This continuous cycle of creation, sharing, and feedback from our audience is what keeps us driven and passionate about what we do.
DinÎntunerec: After a brief stint as “The Godiva”, what led to the decision to reclaim the original name in 2019?
Godiva: Reclaiming the name “Godiva” felt like reconnecting with our essence. When we first started, our name was unique, capturing everything we wanted to achieve musically. However, as time went on, another band with a similar name emerged, and we decided it would be safer to change. Eventually, that other band disbanded, and it felt like fate giving us permission to return to our roots. Reclaiming “Godiva” was about embracing our original boldness, reconnecting with our creative foundation, and reaffirming our journey and dedication to our craft.
The official logo of the band
© Godiva
DinÎntunerec: Godiva is known for blending a variety of sounds and genres. How do you approach genre experimentation, and are there any particular influences or genres you’d like to explore further in the future?
Godiva: Our approach to genre experimentation comes from a genuine desire to push boundaries and stay innovative. We love combining the melodic intensity of death metal with orchestral arrangements, progressive elements, and even some electronic influences. We’ve always felt that music should be dynamic, evolving alongside us as artists. We also believe that music is inherently cyclical—styles come back, merge, and are reborn with new influences, constantly transforming. It’s this evolving nature of music that excites us, as it allows us to draw from both our roots and current inspirations to create something fresh. Moving forward, we’re especially focused on delving deeper into our core styles—death metal, black metal, and symphonic melodic death metal. These genres have always formed the foundation of our sound, and we want to continue exploring the boundaries within these realms. By blending the harshness of death and black metal with the sweeping, epic qualities of symphonic melodic death metal, we aim to craft a sound that is both aggressive and cinematic. It’s all about creating a unique and immersive narrative that keeps our music both challenging and engaging for ourselves and our audience. The balance between intensity, atmosphere, and melody is what defines our music, and we’re always searching for new ways to elevate that combination.
DinÎntunerec: Your latest album “Hubris” was released this year. Can you walk us through the concept and inspiration behind this album?
Godiva: “Hubris” is a reflection on the arrogance often seen in modern society, especially with the rise of social media and the projection of curated identities. We drew from classical mythology, particularly the idea of hubris leading to one’s downfall, and applied it to the current digital age. The mythological stories we all grew up with are surprisingly relevant today, and we wanted to harness that timeless wisdom to reflect on contemporary issues. The album explores themes of ego, overconfidence, and the loss of authenticity, while encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences with pride and self-image. The digital age has made it easy to fall into traps of comparison and inflated self-worth, and “Hubris” serves as a commentary on that. We wanted “Hubris” to be both a cautionary tale and a mirror for the world we’re living in. The lyrics explore the fragility of the ego, the dangers of building facades, and the inevitable fall that follows unchecked pride. Musically, we tried to convey that narrative with contrasts—moments of grandeur followed by intense, chaotic breakdowns that symbolize the collapse of those illusions.
DinÎntunerec: Were there any specific challenges you faced during its production?
Godiva: There were certainly a few hurdles, especially with the limitations brought on by the pandemic. Logistical issues and the challenge of staying connected creatively while being physically apart were significant obstacles. Recording remotely was new for us, and it required a lot of patience and adaptability. However, those very challenges pushed us to adapt, work more independently, and leverage new tools for remote collaboration. The process taught us new ways of communicating ideas and solidified our ability to create, no matter the circumstances. The end result is something we’re extremely proud of—an album that reflects resilience and adaptability. There’s a certain rawness to “Hubris” that came from the fact that we weren’t always in the same room while making it, and yet we were able to capture an emotional cohesion that ties it all together.
DinÎntunerec: “Hubris” was released independently. How did that experience of going independent shape the creative and production process?
Godiva: Going independent definitely allowed us the creative freedom to craft every aspect of “Hubris” without the constraints of external expectations. We were able to take our time with the writing, experiment with new sounds, and ultimately shape the album according to our vision. There’s a different kind of satisfaction when you know that every choice was yours, and every note reflects your true artistic intention. The process was more demanding in terms of logistics and production responsibilities—everything from coordinating studio time to managing distribution fell on our shoulders—but it was worth it for the authenticity it allowed. We were able to engage directly with our listeners, without any intermediaries, and that made the experience all the more rewarding. The result is something that represents us completely, and there’s a real satisfaction in knowing that every note and every word is exactly as we intended. The independence let us preserve our artistic integrity and make decisions based solely on our creative vision.
DinÎntunerec: So you felt like having a spectacular level of freedom.
Godiva: Absolutely, going independent gave us an incredible level of creative freedom, which was invaluable during the creation of “Hubris”. It allowed us to take our time, experiment without restrictions, and make sure every note was exactly as we intended. It meant that we could push boundaries, follow our instincts, and ultimately deliver a piece that truly represents who we are right now. The process of doing everything ourselves—recording, production, distribution—was challenging, but the authenticity it provided made every effort worthwhile.
That said, it’s not that working with a label is inherently problematic. The key is finding the right label, one that understands and respects your vision. The wrong label can stifle creativity with commercial pressures, but the right label can be a powerful ally, providing resources and support without compromising artistic integrity.
Going independent wasn’t just about control; it was also about connecting more directly with our audience. From our extensive European tour, to many other shows across the continent, we’ve had the freedom to decide when and where to bring the damnation, and this independence has allowed us to foster a more genuine and meaningful relationship with our lost souls. The experience has been empowering and has shaped our path forward, making us more committed to evolving and creating on our own terms.
DinÎntunerec: I’ve been captivated by “Death of Icarus” since my very first listen. There’s something truly mesmerizing about the way it unfolds. Can you tell me what sparked the creation of this track and what it means to you as a band?
Godiva: “Death of Icarus” is one of the centerpiece tracks of “Hubris”. It draws on the myth of Icarus, whose ambition led to his tragic fall—a metaphor we felt was deeply relevant today. The song is about the human desire to reach higher, sometimes without considering the consequences. It’s a cautionary tale that mirrors many aspects of modern life, where ambition often blinds people to the potential risks. Musically, we wanted it to reflect that duality of ambition and downfall—starting with a feeling of optimism and ascension before giving way to something darker and more chaotic. The orchestration, coupled with the shifting tempo, represents both the beauty of striving for greatness and the inevitable collapse when limits are ignored. What makes this track particularly special is the way it was created; both the music and lyrics were crafted in a non-conventional, cyclical manner, which is why it doesn’t have a traditional chorus. This structure reinforces the idea of cycles—of rising, falling, and rising again—capturing the essence of Icarus’s fateful journey. It is a piece that embodies both power and fragility, and we feel it speaks to the balance every artist must find in their journey.
DinÎntunerec: Which track on the album resonates most deeply with the band, and why?
Godiva: It’s hard to single out just one track because each song on “Hubris” represents a different aspect of the human condition we wanted to explore. Tracks like “Faceless”, “A Meaning of Life”, and “Dawn” are all pieces of a larger puzzle that reflects the struggles, ambitions, and vulnerabilities of modern society. They were all created as part of a broader narrative, and each contributes uniquely to the overall theme of the album. Choosing just one would be impossible, as they were all conceived within this grand picture. Each track serves as a different lens through which we examine the complexities of our existence today—whether it’s the tension between our inner selves and our digital personas, the search for meaning in an increasingly chaotic world, or the powerful moments of introspection that lead to transformation. These songs were crafted to complement one another, forming a cohesive yet varied exploration of themes that are important to us. The entire album is a reflection of the current human experience, and each track’s message becomes more impactful when viewed in the context of the others, making them inseparable parts of the larger story we set out to tell.
DinÎntunerec: Is there a song on “Hubris” that you’re particularly excited to play live?
Godiva: It’s incredibly difficult to single out just one song from “Hubris” that we’re most excited to play live because each track brings something unique to the set. Songs like “Media God”, “Faceless”, “A Meaning of Life”, and “Dawn” all embody different energies and emotions that we can’t wait to share with the audience. “Media God” is energetic and intense, touching on themes of media influence that resonate powerfully with audiences. “Faceless” dives deep into the struggle for authenticity, which makes it a very emotionally charged track to perform live, while “A Meaning of Life” brings a reflective, introspective tone that contrasts beautifully with the heavier songs in our set. “Dawn” builds up to an epic crescendo, creating a journey that truly comes alive on stage. Each of these tracks has a special role, and it’s the combination of all of them that makes our live performances feel complete and immersive. The energy shifts, the emotional highs and lows, and the connection with the audience make performing these songs an unforgettable experience.
DinÎntunerec: You’re about to perform at the Spears of Wallachia Festival in Romania. When you think about performing at this festival, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
Godiva: The first thing that comes to mind is the incredible passion of the Romanian metal community. The energy they bring to live shows is unlike anything else—it’s raw, unfiltered, and full of love for the music. We have had some fantastic experiences performing in Romania, and it is a country that holds a special place in our hearts. Every time we play there, we are struck by the warmth, dedication, and enthusiasm of the fans. Those past concerts have left us with unforgettable memories, and we always feel an emotional connection when we return.
Spears of Wallachia Festival
© Cavalleria Events
Performing at a festival like Spears of Wallachia means being part of that collective energy, and there’s nothing quite like it. There’s a sense of unity that makes these shows special—an incredible bond that forms between the band and the audience, built through our shared love for music. We’re really looking forward to connecting with the fans there again and feeding off of their enthusiasm, which always elevates our performance.
Festivals are always special because they’re about more than just the music—they’re about creating a shared experience, a memory that stays with both the audience and the performers. It’s those incredible moments of connection that make festivals in Romania so unique, and we are thrilled to be able to return and add new chapters to our journey with this amazing community.
DinÎntunerec: How do you prepare for a festival performance like Spears of Wallachia, any special rituals?
Godiva: We always take some time before a show to gather our thoughts and focus our energy. It’s important for us to be mentally aligned as a band, and we dedicate these moments to reflecting on what we want to bring to the stage. We also go through rehearsals to ensure everything is perfect technically and musically, giving us the confidence to deliver our best. Our preparation is all about channeling our focus and rehearsing together to make sure we give everything we have in the performance.
DinÎntunerec: What aspects of your setlist for Spears of Wallachia are you most excited to share with the audience?
Godiva: We’re incredibly excited to share our full set at Spears of Wallachia. Each track from “Hubris” brings something unique to the table, and it’s that collective energy of all the songs together that makes our performance special. Tracks like “Media God”, “Faceless”, “A Meaning of Life”, “Dawn”, and “Godspell” each embody different energies—from intense and aggressive to reflective and epic. Each one has its own emotional depth and significance, and we think they all come to life in unique ways on stage. The dynamics of our set—from quiet, introspective moments to explosive climaxes—are something we’re eager to bring to this incredible audience. We’re also excited to share some of our newer material from “Hubris” alongside older fan favorites, creating a mix that we believe will resonate deeply with the crowd and make the performance an unforgettable experience for all of us.
DinÎntunerec: Are there any Romanian bands that have caught your attention or that you’d like to share the stage with in the future?
Godiva: Romania has a vibrant metal scene, and we have had some truly fantastic experiences performing there in the past. It is a country that holds a special place in our hearts, not just because of the incredible energy of the fans but also because of the deep connection we’ve felt with the community there. Every time we take the stage in Romania, we are struck by the raw enthusiasm and dedication of the fans—they bring an intensity and passion that is truly infectious.
The atmosphere at our shows in Romania has always been something extraordinary. The audience’s commitment to the music, the sense of unity, and the genuine love for metal make each performance memorable. It’s the kind of connection that goes beyond just playing a gig; it’s about sharing an experience that resonates on a deeper level. We always look forward to returning, as these shows create lasting memories that we cherish as a band.
We would be honored to share the stage with other talented bands from the Romanian metal scene, especially those who bring a unique cultural influence into their music. The creativity and dedication that we see in Romania’s metal community are truly inspiring. Every time we perform there, it feels like we’re contributing to something much bigger—a collective celebration of heavy music that crosses borders and brings people together. It’s that sense of belonging and shared passion that keeps us excited to come back.
DinÎntunerec: You’ve experienced various live shows over the years. What have been some of the most memorable moments from performing on stage?
Godiva: One of the most memorable moments for us was performing at Laurus Nobilis Festival. The energy that night was just electric—the kind of show where you feel the entire audience is with you every step of the way. Another standout memory was our set at Vagos Metal Fest with a live orchestra. Bringing those two worlds together—metal and classical music—was something we had always dreamed of, and seeing it come to life on stage was truly surreal. The grandeur of the orchestral arrangements combined with the raw power of metal made it an unforgettable experience, not just for us but for everyone there. We also had an amazing time playing at Rock’N’Iași in Romania, which was another standout moment. The energy and enthusiasm of the Romanian fans were absolutely phenomenal, and it’s always been a country close to our hearts. And of course, there have been those intimate shows in smaller venues, where the closeness of the audience creates an entirely different but equally powerful vibe. Those moments remind us why we do this—it’s all about connection.
DinÎntunerec: Where do you see Godiva heading musically in the future?
Godiva: We’re always looking to push ourselves musically and evolve our sound. In the future, we see ourselves delving even deeper into the symphonic, black, and melodic death metal elements that define us, while also experimenting with more intricate arrangements and progressive structures. We want to make our music even more dynamic and layered—something that not only tells a story but also creates an immersive experience. We believe that metal is all about pushing boundaries, and that’s exactly what we plan to keep doing—exploring new territories, blending different influences, and continuously refining our sound.
DinÎntunerec: So the fans can expect more releases in the coming years.
Godiva: Definitely. We’re already working on new material, and we’re excited about the direction it’s taking. There’s always something new to explore, and as long as we have ideas and inspiration, we’ll keep creating. Fans can expect more music, more stories, and even more experimentation as we move forward. Our goal is to keep evolving while staying true to the core of who we are as a band.
DinÎntunerec: What else can fans look forward to in the coming months from Godiva?
Godiva: There’s a lot on the horizon! More shows across Europe, including a UK tour and many other concerts throughout the continent. We’re incredibly excited to be back on the road, reconnecting with our audience in as many places as possible. There is also new music in the works and possibly a live recording from one of our recent festival performances. We want to bring our live energy to everyone, even those who can’t make it to the shows. We’re also exploring some exciting collaborations, and we can’t wait to share more about those soon. We’re always looking for ways to keep our connection with our audience strong, and we’ve got some surprises in store that we think our fans will really enjoy.
DinÎntunerec: Speaking of collaborations… If you could collaborate with any artist or band, who would it be and why?
Godiva: We’d love to collaborate with Dimmu Borgir, Cradle of Filth, or even Septic Flesh. We’ve shared the stage with Septic Flesh multiple times, and they have always been a source of inspiration for us. Their atmospheric and theatrical elements align closely with our symphonic and melodic style, and we believe a collaboration could produce something truly special and powerful. The combination of their dramatic flair with our orchestral arrangements would be an incredible fusion. We’re also intrigued by the idea of collaborating outside of metal—working with a classical composer or even an electronic artist to create something entirely new. The idea of merging different worlds to push the boundaries of what metal can be is something that really excites us.
DinÎntunerec: As we wrap up, what message would you like to share with your fans who have supported you throughout your journey?
Godiva: To all of our lost souls, we just want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support, your passion, and your love for our music mean the world to us. You are the reason we do what we do, and every song, every performance, and every album is as much yours as it is ours. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and we’re so grateful that you’ve been there with us every step of the way.
Stay true, stay loud, and keep the metal spirit alive. We can’t wait to see you all on the road, whether it’s during our upcoming European shows, our UK tour, or any of the incredible festivals where we get to share these moments together and bring the damnation. Your energy is what drives us forward, and it’s because of you that we push ourselves to create, evolve, and bring our best to every stage. Let’s keep making memories—together, as one metal family. We are honored to bring the damnation wherever we go, and we can’t wait to create even more unforgettable moments with all of you.
