By: Paul K. Barnes
Sophia Mongresso is an artist that creates music that is emotionally cinematic. By blending elements of metal, opera and classical music, her sound is undeniably grandiose. Her powerful voice is accented by equally powerful instruments that showcase her songwriting skills and commitment to creating music that is moving and memorable. She’s a classically trained opera singer and brings techniques from that world to the world of rock to create something in its own lane. Her new album, Unforgiven, showcases all these elements through songs written about situations she’s experienced in life both mentally and emotionally.
Sophia knows her music blends multiple genres together and in her own words has created a genre called “dark opera.”
“I’m exploring the metal world but using operatic vocals. I like to create something mysterious but with deep meaning and heavy vocals because I think my voice is on the heavier side.”
Sophia’s passion for music comes from her desire to create her music her way. This is apparent in many moments across Unforgiven where at some points listeners can hear her beautiful piano playing and at others can hear aggressive electric guitars. And yet, these two seemingly contrasting sounds blend together excellently for an audio experience that only her and her band members can provide.
“I don’t follow any guidelines…I love rock and I love classical music and I’m trying to blend everything together.”
Sophia’s songwriting is just as important to her as crafting unique soundscapes. When people hear Unforgiven, she wants them to be able to get something out of it. Across the album, Sophia shares many stories that showcase her mental state throughout personal experiences with several going to a “dark” place but from her perspective, darkness does not have to be bad, it’s just the other side.
“I want to empower people and make them feel strong. My main message for this album is for people to use their voice and stand up for themselves.”
The tracks on Unforgiven are arranged purposefully with “Medicate Me” preceding a track called “Another Dose.” The lyrics of these tracks are directly connected with the latter being a continuation of the story that begins in the former. One of the most layered songs on the album is “Demonizer,” a track written for survivors of domestic violence. While operatic vocals are all over the album, Sophia uses a delivery that is traditionally associated with metal for a moment on this track, channeling a raspy almost screamed delivery. This track is also her favorite from the album.
“My intention was to make it loud, powerful and aggressive.”
There are multiple moments on Unforgiven where Sophia layers her vocals to create a hauntingly beautiful effect. On “Sweet Sacrifice” she uses multiple registers to create a chorus that’s enhanced by a melodic electric guitar. The keys at the beginning of the track blend with a guitar to bring two worlds of music together. Meanwhile, on “Sank in the World,” the piano is at the forefront. Tracks like “Taking What You Want” are faster paced while “Haunted” is slower but Sophia’s performance as a singer is just as strong no matter what the pace of the song is.
Sophia has live performances scheduled for September and will also attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the highest and lowest register note for a female singer. She looks forward to these and looks forward to continuing to make her music her way whether it be dark opera or classical. She notes that this is the best route for anyone who makes music to take.
“Find your style and don’t copy anyone. The only way to succeed is to actually create something and release it and just be brave.”
You can stay connected with Sophia on the following platforms.
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/2v2izImh5Klqia6oxOQC2F
Apple Music – https://music.apple.com/us/album/demonizer-single/1699673986
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0TxBlMHC7tODcQyDKxqOuA
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sophia_mengrosso/
Published by: Holy Minoza
