Transylvania

Transylvania is a Canadian black and heavy metal project that begins as a one-person undertaking in the autumn of 2006. It is strongly influenced by French black metal acts including Peste Noire, Alcest and Mütiilation.

Early development

The project starts when its creator is seventeen and does not release official material at first, because the recordings are not yet at the desired standard. Over the next two years, the music gradually develops as guitar playing and musicianship improve while the project remains a solo effort.

Recordings

By spring 2008, Transylvania records its first proper demo, Ravage Total. Positive reactions to that release lead to further composition. In winter 2009, the project completes As The Wicked Prosper, described as a follow-up to an earlier depressive, heavy metal-leaning debut. On that recording, the sound moves toward greater aggressiveness and faster tempos, with blast beats programmed on a drum machine because there is no drummer and no suitable rehearsal space.

Move toward a band format

The second demo also serves as a set of potential live songs, prompting a decision to turn the solo project into a full band. After phone calls and with help from a friend named Jimmy, a place to rehearse and suitable musicians become available.