Muerto - Interview

From L to R - Juan Mondragon (guitars), Penelope Matamoros (vocals), Eddel Jared (drums)

We interviewed Penelope Matamoros from the Mexican Black Metal band "Muerto" about the band's themes and inspirations as well as their most recent activity.

What drives the message or feeling behind your latest release?

The core of Eclipsed Realms is the duality of human existence—our inner and psychological struggles. It’s about confronting the parts of ourselves we often try to avoid, and exploring how light and darkness constantly shape who we are.

Is there a theme or atmosphere you always try to create in your music?

Our music always leans towards an atmosphere of deep introspection, shrouded in darkness, where the listener is encouraged to look inward and face complex emotions.

What influences outside of metal shape your sound or lyrics?

Cinema is a huge influence—especially the works of Lars von Trier and Nicolas Winding Refn—as well as Stoic philosophy, Jungian psychology. We like to explore with lyrics of psychological depth beyond genre boundaries.

How does your songwriting process usually start—riffs, lyrics, jamming, or something else?

Many songs start with atmospheric intros that set the emotional tone, while others are born from powerful riffs that demand to be developed further.

Do you write music more from instinct or with a clear concept in mind?

Instinct is our main guide. We allow ideas to unfold naturally, following emotion and texture rather than a rigid plan.

Has your sound or vision changed a lot since the band started? What triggered that change?

Yes. Our sound has become rawer and heavier over time. The change came from becoming more certain of who we are as a band and what we truly want to express.

What role do live shows play for your band—ritual, chaos, expression, connection?

They are liberation—a moment of deep connection with ourselves. On stage, we are at our most authentic.

Do you think bands should be mysterious, or open and direct with fans?

We believe in keeping a certain level of mystery. It leaves space for interpretation and allows the music to speak for itself.

Is there something you want listeners to feel, understand, or question after hearing your music?

We want them to connect with emotions they didn’t know they had—to discover something hidden within themselves.

What’s something about your band that people often misunderstand or overlook?

That we don’t fit neatly into a single subgenre.

How do you see your band’s place in the current metal scene—part of a wave, standing apart, or something else?

We’re part of the modern underground metal wave, yet we stand apart through our blend of influences and atmosphere.

Are visuals important to your music (artwork, stage look, merch)? How do you approach that side of the band?

Visuals are essential. They complete the album’s concept and help immerse the listener in the world we create.

Which band member contributes most to composition, and how do conflicts or collaborations play out?

Juan, our guitarist, leads the composition process, but each member contributes in their own instrument’s voice, ensuring the final result is truly collective.

What’s a moment—on stage, in the studio, or on the road—that made you feel the band was truly alive?

Touring Europe was unforgettable. Being completely unknown outside our country and still seeing people headbang and connect to our music—it’s incredibly rewarding.

What’s next for the band that you’re most excited (or nervous) about?

The release of our new album and the upcoming tours. Both bring a mix of excitement and anticipation.