Valiant Sentinel: ‘Behind the tracks there is a vision.’

The Valiant Sentinel founded by the guitarist and composer, Δημήτρη Σκόδρα, who is the creator of all the band's music. It's a power metal band with some epic metal elements. The first, self-titled album was released in April, 2022 by No Remorse Records (Facebook, Instagram) and featured famous metal singers such as Tim ”Ripper” Owens (Judas Priest, Iced Earth) as well as Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire). The band is currently working on their second album which they're aiming to release by the end of 2023.

Welcome, and happy new year! First off, some info about your debut, self-titled album.

'Good evening and happy new year. The debut of Valiant Sentinel was released in December 2021 digitally through Bandcamp, and in 2022 on CD via No Remorse Records. It's a power metal record with some heavy and epic metal touches.'

What feedback did you get for this work? Did everything go according to your initial expectations?

'Overall it got positive reactions. Given that it's the first album I didn't have high expectations, but I can say it not only met my expectations but exceeded them too.'

How did the collaboration with Tim ''Ripper'' Owens (Judas Priest, Iced Earth) and Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire) come about? We're talking about 2 huge names.

'Yes, they're both formidable musicians and very well known in general. They were 2 names I'd always wanted to sing on my songs, and I told myself the record would be incomplete as far as my vision goes if it didn't have those 2 as well. So I just messaged Lione through Facebook without expecting a reply, but in the end he not only answered but sang on it too. As for Ripper, if I remember correctly I got his e-mail from an acquaintance of mine and sent him a message.'

What were their own comments on the final result on the 2 songs they collaborated on with Valiant Sentinel? Is there a chance you'll work together again?

'Ο Fabio Lione said, word for word, that it's a good song. Ripper didn't comment but left the door open for future collaboration, so I'll say yes, most likely you'll see me working with Ripper again, if everything goes as it should.'

Beyond these 2 songs, which ones stand out for you personally from the album? Are there any that hold a special place for you, and why?

'I'll say One Must Fall because it's inspired by the retro video game ''One must fall : 2097'' which I grew up with, and ' Destiny Awaits because I like that it's so melodic, but also aggressive at the same time.'

What are your broader influences both as a guitarist and as a composer? Who do we "hear" on the album?

'As far as the rhythmic parts go, I'm clearly influenced by James Hetfield and on the leads I've been influenced by guitarists like Timo Tolkki and Yngwie Malmsteen. As with all bands in the genre, you hear the greats of the past like Judas Priest and Ιron Maiden, but also later giants of the genre like Hammerfall and Blind Guardian.’

What do you consider to be the most distinctive element of Valiant Sentinel that will make them stand out in a highly competitive metal scene, with new and older names constantly putting out new work?

'That behind all my songs there's vision, hunger, and that it's music I genuinely have a great time composing.'

Is there material for a new release? If so, when should we expect it?

'Yes, of course. My parts on the second record have already been recorded, and now I'm waiting for the other musicians to record their own parts. I'd like it to come out within the year and I think that's how it'll go.'

Are there any plans for live shows? Will we see Valiant Sentinel live, or will it remain strictly a personal project?

'I've found musicians for a live lineup, but since that's not exactly the easiest thing for various reasons, I haven't officially announced anything yet. Still, yes. At some point in the near future Valiant Sentinel will play live, something I'm really looking forward to.'

Thank you very much and we wish you all the best for 2023, with lots of success! You can close out this conversation however you like!

'Thank you too for everything. I had a great time answering your questions. I'd like to thank everyone who supported Valiant Sentinel in whatever way they could, and I'm looking forward to sharing new material with you all.'