Esoterica

Esoterica is a UK metal group that is also known as ESO. The band emerges from Warlingham in Surrey, with its origins described as being in Africa. Its sound is presented as ethereal metal, with progressive rock, alternative rock, alternative metal and black metal also associated with it.

Activity and recognition

The group builds a profile through touring and radio exposure, including support slots for Marilyn Manson on two European tours, appearances on the KERRANG! Tour, and support for HIM at a sold-out Hammersmith Apollo. Its music is also played on BBC Radio 1, XFM Rockshow, Bruce Dickinson’s 6Music show and Total Rock, among others.

The band attracts a dedicated following after two years of intensive live work. Review quotes associated with the group describe its songs as strong and its guitar melodies as distinctive.

Recordings and releases

Esoterica records The Fool with producer John Fryer, whose credits include work with Nine Inch Nails, HIM and Depeche Mode. The album is described as combining atmospheric soundscapes, clear melodies and forceful guitar parts. The band’s debut video, Life Is Lonely, is filmed in Los Angeles and directed by Wendell Scot Greene, with editing by Nathan “Karma” Cox. A second video, Don’t Rely On Anyone, is shot by Carolan Productions and airs on Kerrang and Scuzz Television.

Members

The line-up includes Tobias Keast on vocals, Laura Conway on guitar, Mike Watchorn on bass, Luke Keast on drums, Matthew Diver on guitar and Will Keast on synths.