In the vibrant musical landscape of Paris, Costa Rican guitarist Ronald Mora emerges as a distinctive force, crafting a unique fusion of prog rock and metal under the enigmatic banner of the.divine.paradox?. With his debut album, “1972,” Mora delves into profound themes of consciousness and suicide prevention, drawing inspiration from the poignant memories of his late brother, Albert. Through this sonic journey, Mora aspires to forge emotional connections and ignite inspiration, encouraging listeners to discover their own voices within the intricate tapestry of his evocative compositions.
Amidst the vibrant cultural tapestry of Costa Rica during the 1990s, Ronald Mora‘s musical journey took an unexpected turn, diverging from the rhythmic beats that enveloped his surroundings. “Growing up in Costa Rica in the 1990s, I was exposed primarily to tropical music,” Mora recalls, setting the stage for a narrative that would lead him into the enchanting world of progressive rock. Introduced to this captivating genre by friends, he found himself immersed in the melodic intricacies and complex arrangements of bands like Symphony X, The Flower Kings, and Shadow Gallery. “Their music captivated me,” he reminisces, his fascination steering him into the intricate labyrinth of classical influences and progressive elements that define progressive rock.
Fueling his newfound passion, Mora, alongside his friends, gave birth to the band Lazharus. Seeking guidance from the Chilean Berkley-trained maestro, Tomás Díaz, Mora underwent a transformative musical education that refined his understanding of music theory and songwriting. This period laid the groundwork for his future compositions, shaping the unique musical voice that would define his artistic identity. However, in the midst of the thriving rock scene in Costa Rica, progressive rock struggled to emerge from the shadows, remaining largely underground and presenting a formidable challenge for bands like Lazharus to secure widespread recognition.
“The lack of a substantial music market and affordable gear further hindered our progress,” Mora reflects on the challenges faced by aspiring musicians in Costa Rica. Undeterred, Lazharus embarked on a memorable tour in Guatemala and El Salvador, sharing their music with an impassioned audience. The experience proved eye-opening, revealing both the potential of underground music and the formidable difficulties associated with pursuing a career in a genre with a limited fanbase.
“Despite the challenges, I remain passionate about progressive rock,” Mora asserts, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to a genre that has become the focal point of his artistic expression. Today, he continues to compose and produce music that echoes his deep-seated love for progressive rock, a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity and a celebration of the genre’s enduring allure.
As the curtain rises on the featured track on the “Progstravaganza: Harmony in Complexity” compilation—”Lost (A Cry in the Dark)”—Mora invites us to delve into the poignant inspiration that breathes life into this evocative composition.
The strains of “Lost (A Cry in the Dark)” resonate with a profound personal tale, woven into the fabric of Mora’s debut album, “1972.” The album serves as a testament to the life and struggles of his late brother, Albert, a coffee farmer whose battle with depression tragically culminated in his own life’s tragic end in 2017. “The song ‘Lost (A Cry in the Dark)’ is inspired by Albert’s inner struggles, his fears, and his past experiences,” Mora shares, peeling back the layers of emotion that underlie this poignant musical creation.
As the notes unfold, “Lost (A Cry in the Dark)” becomes a vessel for the pain and uncertainty that Albert faced in the throes of his internal battles. It captures the essence of his journey, painting a sonic portrait of the struggles that preceded his final decision. Beyond being a composition of raw emotion, the song serves a higher purpose – it becomes a moving commentary on the challenges of grappling with mental health issues and the imperative of seeking help. In this melodic tribute to Albert, Mora extends a message of hope, a lifeline for those who find themselves entangled in the complexities of their own struggles. Through his music, Ronald Mora not only immortalizes the memory of his brother but also becomes a beacon, guiding others towards a path of resilience and healing.
Prog Sphere: Walk us through your creative process. How do you typically approach writing and composing music? What was your creative process like for your recent album “1972” in comparison to your previous efforts?
Ronald Mora: My creative journey begins with guitar improvisation, capturing promising melodies that evolve into harmonic frameworks. After establishing the song’s structure, I layer instruments and record the basic track in a software environment, refining the arrangement for a realistic sound. The album “1972” signifies a revival of my musical passion, bridging a two-decade hiatus dedicated to veterinary academic and professional career and life in general. This project wouldn’t be possible without the invaluable contributions of Sebastián Prosperi, a talented Argentine multi-instrumentalist and producer, whose expertise brought my vision to life. Costa Rican artist Francisco Olaso‘s creative insight shaped the album’s concept and lyrics, enhancing its emotional depth. The collaborative efforts of musicians and graphic artists further enriched the production, transforming my ideas into a cohesive and impactful musical journey.
Who or what are your major influences in progressive rock? How do they impact your own musical style?
While I’m deeply rooted in the progressive rock genre, my musical influences extend far beyond its boundaries. From the classic works of Queensrÿche, Arjen Lucassen and Shadow Gallery to the modern sensibilities of Soen, Devin Townsend and Dear Hunter, I’ve drawn inspiration from a diverse range of artists and styles. I believe this eclectic mix has undoubtedly help me shape my own musical style, infusing it with elements of prog rock, arena rock’s melodies, and the atmospheric sounds of modern progressive artists.
What challenges have you faced as an artist in the scene, and how have you overcome them?
As an independent artist, I’ve faced a myriad of challenges, from the financial constraints of self-producing an album to the logistical difficulties of managing a complex creative project. However, my greatest challenge has been to break through the noise and gain recognition in a saturated music landscape. The rise of streaming services, the increasing accessibility of music production tools and the growing influence of social media have made possible that today, over 1000 new progressive rock songs are uploaded to the Internet every day. The abundance of progressive rock music available online has made it increasingly difficult for new artists to stand out. Building a loyal fan base requires consistent effort and strategic marketing, and I’m committed to putting in the hard work necessary to make my music heard.
How do you see the scene evolving, and what role do you believe your music plays in that evolution?
The vibrant diversity within progressive rock today provides a fertile ground for creativity and innovation, steering the genre away from formulaic tendencies. I’m confident that progressive rock will continue to evolve, and emerging artists will effectively leverage modern production tools and social media to gain exposure. Despite the saturated music landscape, I believe that powerful messages, like the message of hope conveyed in my debut album, can transcend audience limitations.
Share with us some of the most memorable moments in your musical journey so far.
Music has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation for me throughout my life. My experiences playing in my band Lazharus and with countless other musicians have shaped my musical identity and fueled my passion for creating music. A few years ago, I set a bold goal of writing and releasing my own album, a feat that once seemed improbable but now fills me with immense pride. My music is a testament to the power of dreams and the unwavering belief in one’s potential.
Do you have a personal favorite among your own compositions? If so, which one and why?
My daughter Nina’s impending arrival sparked a surge of melodic inspiration within me. One particular four-note sequence, G, F#, E, and D, served as the catalyst for penning a song dedicated to her, titled “The Miracle of Life.” This composition marked my entry into the world of music production, a journey undertaken with minimal knowledge but fueled by an unwavering desire to create something meaningful for my daughter.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re working on?
While the allure of live performances is undeniable, my current circumstances in Paris restrict my ability to bring my project to the stage. Nonetheless, the release of “1972” in CD format is imminent, extending the reach of my debut album. I’m also actively composing music for my second album, which will delve into the sensitive topic of child sexual abuse. Once again, my goal is to amplify the voices of those who have suffered in silence and promote hope amidst adversity.
What does it mean to you to be a part of our compilation? How has the experience been for you?
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be featured in this compilation. It’s an honor to share my music with a wider audience and potentially connect with those who may resonate with the themes of my debut album, especially the critical issue of mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The collaboration process has been seamless and professional, and I’m deeply appreciative of your support.
Is there a message you’d like to convey to your fans who will be discovering your music through this compilation?
To all who are discovering my music through this compilation, I extend a warm welcome and heartfelt gratitude. Your support, especially through platforms like Bandcamp, is crucial for emerging artists like myself to continue creating music and sharing our stories with the world. Beyond the melodies and rhythms, I hope my music conveys a message of hope and resilience, particularly for those grappling with mental health challenges. The story of my late brother serves as a tragic reminder that mental health issues are serious and should not be taken lightly. I hope that by sharing his story, others can find the strength to seek help and avoid making the same tragic choice as my brother.
Quickfire Round
Dream Collaboration: If you could collaborate with any artist, living or not, who would it be?
Jules Verne – as a fan of his works, a collaboration with the visionary writer could lead to a concept album exploring fantastical worlds and adventures, combining the power of storytelling with musical expression.
Instrument of Choice: If you had to pick one instrument (besides your primary one) to master, what would it be?
I wouldn’t hesitate to pick a Moog Theremini. Have you seen it and heard it? That stuff is SICK!
Favorite Prog Album: What’s your all-time favorite progressive rock album, and why? One album that you always return to.
While I enjoy discovering new music and revisiting my favorite classics, I find myself consistently drawn back to Pink Floyd‘s “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The album’s immersive soundscape and profound exploration of human themes create a sense of familiarity and comfort, like returning home after a long journey. It’s an experience that words alone cannot fully capture.
Non-Musical Influence: Are there non-musical influences that find their way into your music? (e.g., literature, art, science)
My music is shaped by philosophical reflections on the mysteries of human existence. Drawing from ideas about life’s purpose, consciousness, and the human experience. I try to add a reflective and contemplative layer to my work, inviting listeners to ponder the enigmas that define our collective human journey.
Any final thoughts or reflections you’d like to share with our audience?
Support the emerging artists you like, save a beer and buy them a song, go see them live and get some merch, you’ll be doing much more than just having fun. I aspire for the inspiring message of hope embedded within my music to reach a wide audience and potentially leave a positive imprint on their lives.
Where can our audience find more about you and your music? (Include social media handles, website, etc.)
