Interview with Eloah

What got you into music,'and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

My journey into music started with classical piano lessons as a child. Over time, I taught myself guitar and began composing my own songs, leading to the creation of ELOAĦ. Music has always been a way for me to express emotions that words alone cannot convey. If I weren’t making music, I would likely focus entirely on my career as a physicist and science manager, which complements my artistic side by providing intellectual and creative balance.​

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

Outside of music, I enjoy practicing Japanese martial arts like Kendo and Iaido, managing research projects, and doing research. These activities challenge me both intellectually and physically, offering new perspectives that inspire my music. The discipline and focus required in martial arts, for instance, often reflect in my creative process, while science nurtures my curiosity and drive for exploration.

How long has your band been around?

ELOAĦ was founded in 1995 as a solo singer-songwriter project. Over the years, it evolved into a collaborative musical endeavor involving talented musicians from across Europe. This journey has allowed the band to grow and explore diverse genres​.

Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?

Our home base is in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, though ELOAĦ is an international collaboration. Growing up in Austria and later moving to the Netherlands significantly influenced our musical style by exposing us to diverse cultural and artistic perspectives. This combination of influences is reflected in our music, which blends classical training with experimental approaches​.

How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?

The name "ELOAĦ" came from my reading of biblical and apocryphal texts, where "eloah" translates loosely to "comes from above.", similar to how I experience inspiration – it comes from somewhere, and it cannot be forced. To make it unique, I replaced the "h" with "ħ," the symbol for the reduced Planck constant, reflecting my background in and passion for physics. For me, the name symbolizes the intersection of science and creativity, encapsulating the spirit of inspiration and exploration​.

Tell me about your most memorable shows.

One of my favorite gigs was at the Musichouse in Graz, Austria. The energy of the audience, the seamless collaboration among band members, and the joy of playing live made it an unforgettable experience. Everything aligned perfectly that night, creating a deep connection between us and the audience. Moments like these remind me of the transformative power of live music​

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

Live performances for ELOAĦ have been rare due to the international nature of our lineup. I would love to perform in iconic venues or collaborate on unique live events that highlight our eclectic sound. Future performances are something I look forward to exploring after completing our next album​.

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

Collaborating with Jon Oliva of Savatage would be a dream come true. His ability to combine poetic storytelling with emotive and powerful music resonates deeply with my approach to songwriting. Together, I imagine we could create a lineup that bridges classical music, rock and experimental music, offering a truly unique and transformative experience​.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

For someone starting out, I’d advise staying true to your unique sound and passions instead of chasing trends. Focus on creating music that resonates with you and work hard to develop your craft. Embrace vulnerability and do not shy away from expressing difficult emotions in your music. Stay authentic and focus on the joy of creation rather than external validation.

If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?

To my younger self, I’d say, “Trust yourself and enjoy the journey, setbacks are part of the process, and authenticity is what will connect you with the right people”​. Additionally, I’d encourage myself to prioritize balance between my creative and professional pursuits​.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

 “A Spark of Darkness” from The Book of Pain is particularly meaningful as it was inspired by the loss of my dear friend Michael Görig. It captures the emotional weight of grief while serving as both a tribute and a cathartic expression. Its depth and personal significance make it one of the most impactful songs in our catalog​ue.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

"We Shall Rise" is one of my favorite songs because of its hopeful and uplifting message. It’s also a fan favorite due to its empowering tone. In my opinion, the blend of emotional depth and anthemic energy in this track makes it a standout. We haven’t played it live yet, but that’s something I’m really looking forward to.

What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?

Our creative process often begins with improvisation, where melodies and lyrics emerge naturally. Sometimes, we collaborate as a group, allowing ideas to evolve organically during sessions. Inspiration comes from personal experiences, literature, mythology, and the emotional weight of life’s challenges, all of which shape the music’s introspective and emotional tone​.

What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?

Our music focuses on themes of resilience, emotional exploration, and the human experience. We aim to inspire listeners to reflect on their own journeys, find hope amidst struggles, and connect with emotions that are often difficult to express. Above all, we strive to create a sense of comfort and shared understanding through our work​.

Do you ever have disagreements in your band, and how do you get past them?

Given the collaborative nature of ELOAĦ, disagreements are rare but not unheard of. When they do arise, we focus on open communication and mutual respect to resolve them. The diverse backgrounds and styles of the band members contribute to creative solutions that strengthen the final product​.

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

We’re currently finalizing the LP version of The Book of Pain and working on a new album that explores gospel and jazz-inspired sounds. This fresh direction is an exciting challenge, pushing us to explore new musical landscapes. Looking ahead, we hope to organize live performances and continue creating music that resonates deeply with listeners​.