INTERVIEW: BLACK REUSS

 

Genre: Melodic Gothic/Doom Rock/Metal

Country: Liechtenstein

Questions by: Nick Parastatidis

Answers by: Maurizio Dottores  (Vocals, All instruments)

Site: Homepage

1.Can you tell us a bit about the history of Black Reuss? How did the band start, and what led to the project?

Black Reuss began as a very personal journey. It’s a solo project that was born out of a deep need for expression—both musically and emotionally. The name itself comes from the Reuss river in Switzerland, which resonated with me symbolically as a representation of life’s flow—dark, sometimes turbulent, but always moving forward. I put Black bevor Reuss to symbolize my melancholic side, reflected of course in the music as well. I had played in other bands before, but Black Reuss was the first time I truly felt free to create something entirely on my own terms, without compromise.

 

2. How would you describe Black Reuss's sound to someone who has never heard your music before?

Black Reuss blends Melodic Gothic Metal, Darkrock, and Melodic Doom Metal into a sound that’s as atmospheric as it is emotional. It’s dark and introspective, with heavy, slow-moving riffs, layered melodies, and a strong sense of mood. There’s a gothic elegance to it, a rock foundation, and a doom-laden weight—all balanced with melodic elements that make the songs resonate on a deeper emotional level. It’s not just music—it’s a journey through light and shadow.

 

3. Your sound blends Melodic Gothic Metal, Darkrock, and Melodic Doom Metal. How do you balance these different elements in your music?

It’s really about intuition. I never sit down and say, “Now I need a gothic part” or “This needs more doom.” Instead, I focus on the emotional essence of a song and let the genres serve that feeling. Each element brings something unique: the gothic vibe gives it a dark elegance, the doom elements bring weight and gravity, and the melodic touches are there to connect on a deeper emotional level. It's all about serving the song.

 

4. Liechtenstein isn't a country typically associated with the metal scene. How does your location influence your music, if at all?

Liechtenstein is a small country, that’s true—but there are a lot of metal fans here. While we don’t have a huge scene in terms of bands or venues, the passion for metal definitely exists. That said, the size and atmosphere of the country naturally lend themselves to introspection and solitude, which influences my music. The quiet, the landscapes, and the sense of being somewhat outside the mainstream all feed into the emotional and atmospheric side of Black Reuss. It’s a perfect environment for creating something personal and unique.

 

5. Type O Negative and Black Sabbath are major influences. In what ways do these bands specifically impact Black Reuss's songwriting and overall aesthetic? Are there any other bands that influence you, or are the influences of a more unconventional nature?

My sources of inspiration go far beyond just those two bands. It’s often other people trying to put Black Reuss into a certain box by naming Type O Negative and Black Sabbath. Of course, both bands are great, and I do listen to them a lot. Type O Negative taught me the power of atmosphere and emotional honesty, even with a touch of irony or theatricality. Their slow grooves and layered textures really resonate with me. Black Sabbath, of course, laid the groundwork for everything heavy. Their sense of riff and tension is unmatched.

But aside from those, I draw inspiration from a wide range of sources—not just music. Classical compositions, film scores, literature... anything that evokes a strong emotional response can become fuel for the creative fire. It’s that emotional depth, no matter the medium, that I’m always chasing in my own music.

 

6. Do you find it difficult to be the sole musician?

It has its challenges, for sure. There are moments where you miss the immediate feedback or the collaborative energy of a band. But at the same time, it’s incredibly liberating. Every decision is mine, every sound is exactly as I envision it. It’s a very intimate process, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. I collaborate when it makes sense, but the core of Black Reuss will always be a personal expression.

 

7. What themes and ideas inspire your lyrics?

The core themes are transformation, solitude, emotion, and the human condition. Black Reussfirst four album are essentially a metaphor for life’s journey, so the lyrics explore moments of change, inner struggle, and ultimately, growth. It’s about facing the darkness and finding a way through it—not necessarily with answers, but with awareness.

 

8. How would you describe the creative process for the "Arrival" album?

Arrival was very much about grounding myself in a new chapter. The creative process was immersive and introspective—I wrote, recorded, and produced everything myself. It was about capturing the essence of transition, of coming to terms with a new emotional reality. There were many late nights, a lot of experimentation, and a lot of soul-searching. Every note on that album means something to me.

 

9. The album is said to be part of a "tetralogy", when will be the next album released?

Yes, Arrival is actually the third part of a four-part concept. It started with Metamorphosis, followed by Journey, then Arrival, and the final chapter, Death, is planned for release in 2025. Right now, we’re deep in the preparation phase, so I can’t say exactly when it will drop, but it’s coming. Death will close the circle and bring the story to its final emotional and conceptual destination.

 

10. How would you describe the creative process for the "Arrival" album?

It usually starts with a guitar riff or a melody—sometimes both—and from there, one idea naturally leads to another until the song takes shape. I don’t force it; I let the music guide me. With Arrival, like with all my work, I really tried to squeeze out every emotion hiding within me. The music is deeply personal—I identify 100% with what I’m doing. There’s no filter, no mask. It’s raw, honest, and entirely from within me. Every note, every lyric reflects who I am and what I feel in that moment.

 

11. How did the collaboration with the other artists happen?

Collaboration is always something I approach carefully. When I bring someone in, it’s because their contribution adds something unique that I can’t provide alone. Whether it’s guest vocals, additional instrumentation, or mixing/mastering, it’s about enhancing the vision without diluting it. Most collaborations come through mutual respect—either people I’ve met over the years or artists whose work speaks to me. It’s a very intentional process.

 

12. I truly appreciate you sharing your perspective with me. Do you feel that we've covered everything you wanted to discuss, or is there anything you'd like to reiterate or clarify before we finish?

Thank you—it’s been a pleasure to dive deep into the world of Black Reuss. I’d just like to say that this project is not just music—it’s a narrative, a journey. I hope listeners can find pieces of their own story in it. And if they do, that means everything to me. I’m grateful for every ear that listens and every heart that resonates.