Formed in southern Portugal in 2015, Shadowmare have spent more than a decade developing a sound built from the aggression of thrash and death metal alongside the precision and complexity of progressive and technical metal.
Across the EP From Hell to the Future, the albums Shades of the Untold and While Trapped Inside, and the tenth-anniversary single 10 Anos de Nós para Vós, the Algarve band established themselves through ambitious songwriting and an intense live presence. Their history has also been shaped by lineup changes, creative setbacks and moments when continuing was far from guaranteed.
Shadowmare now move forward as a four-piece featuring vocalist João Infante, guitarist Jorge Assunção, bassist Jorge Alva Rosa and drummer Flávio Torres. Their third full-length album, Transfiguration, arrives independently on August 11, 2026, across digital and CD formats.
The seven-track record presents a shorter, heavier and more concentrated version of Shadowmare. Rather than disguising the changes that reshaped the band, Transfiguration turns those experiences into its central narrative—moving through collapse, sacrifice, survival and renewal while preserving the technical identity at the heart of their music.
In this interview for CRANNK, Shadowmare discuss their first decade, becoming a four-member band, redefining technicality, writing in Portuguese, working with Devil in Me vocalist Poli Correia and creating the most honest album of their career.
The First Decade and the Road to Transfiguration
1. Shadowmare formed in Portugal’s Algarve region in 2015. Looking back across the first decade, what originally brought the band together, and what did you want Shadowmare to represent when it began?
Shadowmare was formed in 2015 after the end of several local bands, including Deathland, Stronger Device and Sarcastic Mind. Most of us already knew each other through the Algarve metal scene, so starting a new project felt like the natural next step.
The idea came from our founding vocalist, Bruno, who had also fronted Deathland. At first, we didn’t have a specific subgenre in mind—only that we wanted to play metal and let the band’s identity develop naturally.
Our main goal was to build a serious, committed band that could represent the Algarve metal scene with ambition and professionalism. Ten years later, that original vision still defines who we are.
2. “10 Anos de Nós para Vós” acknowledged the disagreements, setbacks and moments when Shadowmare came close to ending. Did writing that anniversary song make you realise there was a larger story that needed to become Transfiguration?
Interestingly, “10 Anos de Nós para Vós” already existed under a different title with completely different lyrics. It had been sitting on the shelf for years, never making it onto any of our previous releases.
As the band went through major lineup changes and we began redefining our musical direction, the song suddenly found its purpose. Rewriting it felt like closing one chapter and opening another.
In many ways, it became the turning point that naturally led to Transfiguration. From that moment on, we knew we wanted to create heavier, more intense and emotionally honest music than ever before.
3. The title Transfiguration suggests something deeper than ordinary change. What had to transform within Shadowmare before this album could exist?
The transformation happened both musically and personally. Some of the songs were built from ideas that had existed for years, but they were reshaped to fit this new mindset and the direction we wanted the band to take.
For the first time, the lyrics follow a clear narrative from the opening track to the closing one, reflecting many of the experiences we lived through as a band. That gave the album a much more personal and cohesive identity.
By the time we started writing Transfiguration, we were all aligned. We wanted every aspect of the band—our music, our lyrics and our mentality—to reach a higher level than on our previous album. That shared vision is what made this record possible.
4. The press material says the album does not attempt to hide the changes that brought you here. How honest were you prepared to be while still respecting the privacy of former members and personal relationships?
This is the most honest and unfiltered album we’ve ever written. We wanted to strip everything back and show the reality of what Shadowmare has been through, without pretending the difficult moments never happened.
The album draws inspiration from real experiences: losing recordings from our previous album and having to record them all over again; welcoming a fifth member, investing time in integrating him into the band, only to see that chapter end almost as quickly as it began; and the frustration of seeing the same bands repeatedly booked for festivals while many equally deserving national bands struggle to get opportunities, often because of location or industry connections.
Those experiences aren’t presented as complaints or attacks on anyone. They became fuel for our songwriting. Every setback, every disappointment and every lesson learned was transformed into the energy that defines Transfiguration.
Becoming a Four-Member Band
5. Shadowmare previously operated with two guitarists and now move forward as a four-member band. How did that change affect the way the new material was written and arranged?
Yes, that lineup change had a major impact on the way we approached the new material. After our fifth member left, we realised we had never truly been able to present our second album as it was intended. Many of those songs were written for two guitarists, with layered harmonies, dual leads and extensive solos. We adapted them for a four-piece lineup, but they never felt exactly as originally envisioned.
That experience naturally shaped our writing process for Transfiguration. We decided to embrace the reality of who we were as a band instead of trying to recreate something that no longer fit.
The goal became clear: shorter songs, greater intensity, fewer solos, less ornamentation—especially in the guitars—and a more direct, aggressive approach. We wanted every song to make an impact without unnecessary excess.
6. Jorge, how did becoming the sole guitarist change your approach? Did it make you feel more exposed, or did it give you greater freedom to rethink the guitar identity of Shadowmare?
I think it was both. On one hand, I felt more exposed as a guitarist, and that naturally brought some uncertainty. Without a second guitar, there’s nowhere to hide—every riff, every melody and every transition carries more responsibility.
On the other hand, that challenge gave me a new sense of freedom. It pushed me to rethink my role and develop a stronger identity as a player. I still use technical playing and guitar solos, but now they’re more intentional and serve the song rather than existing for their own sake. That shift became an important part of Transfiguration’s sound.
7. With one guitar instead of two, how did the relationship between guitar, bass and drums change? Did Jorge Alva’s bass naturally gain more independence or responsibility?
Without a doubt. One of the biggest changes on this record, is the role of the bass. It no longer exists just to support the guitars—it has become a fundamental part of the band’s identity and of the songwriting itself.
With a single guitarist, the bass naturally had more space to stand out, and we embraced that. It became more present in the mix, more technical in its approach and far more involved in shaping the overall sound.
Rather than trying to fill a gap, we used the opportunity to give the bass its own voice.
8. João, did the new instrumental space change the way you approached your vocals, or did the shorter songs demand a more concentrated and aggressive performance?
Absolutely. My first reaction was, “Finally!” It was a change I genuinely welcomed because it forced me to focus on what I wanted to express and how I wanted to deliver that message.
On our previous albums, there were long instrumental sections where I would spend a lot of time without singing. On Transfiguration, I’m vocally involved much more consistently. It’s more demanding physically, but it’s also far more exciting and rewarding to perform.
I also feel that the lyrics and my vocal techniques complement each other better than ever. Everything feels more connected now.
Shorter Songs and Technical Identity
9. Your first two albums ran close to an hour, while Transfiguration delivers seven tracks in roughly 22 minutes. What drove such a dramatic shift in song length?
It was a combination of both. As a band, we were already moving towards writing shorter, heavier and more intense songs. It felt like the natural direction for us creatively.
At the same time, we noticed that our audience wanted a different live experience. In the past, many of our songs were highly technical and full of virtuosity. Musicians often appreciated that side of the band, but the crowd sometimes became spectators rather than participants.
With Transfiguration, we wanted to keep the technical quality while creating songs that demanded a physical response. We wanted riffs that make people headbang, breakdowns that start mosh pits and wall of deaths, and songs that connect emotionally as much as they impress musically. Finding that balance has made our live shows far more intense—for both the band and the audience.
10. Did the shorter format emerge naturally from becoming a four-member band, or was there a deliberate decision to become more ruthless during the editing and arrangement process?
The decision to write shorter songs came very naturally. It wasn’t something we forced or planned from the beginning—it simply reflected where we were as musicians and as a band.
As our vision became clearer, we all found ourselves moving in the same direction. We wanted every song to be more focused, more direct and more impactful, without losing the technical identity that defines Shadowmare.
11. Technical metal is often associated with length and complexity. What does the word “technical” mean to Shadowmare now?
Technical Thrash Metal is the label that has followed us for years. To be honest, we never really knew how to define ourselves, because our music has always combined melody, aggression and progressive elements.
Over time, though, we’ve come to realise that it’s probably the most accurate description of what we do. It wasn’t a label we chose ourselves, but it’s one we identify with.
The “technical” side reflects the amount of work that goes into the guitar and bass arrangements, while the “thrash” captures the speed, aggression and energy that have always been at the core of Shadowmare’s sound. It feels like a natural fit for where the band is today.
12. Do you feel that compressing complex ideas into three or four minutes requires more discipline than allowing a song to develop across six or seven minutes?
Longer songs naturally give you more room to develop extended solos, progressive sections and more elaborate arrangements. By shortening the tracks, we adopted a much more direct and intense approach.
Of course, we had to let go of some of those elements, but with only one guitarist it simply didn’t make sense to keep writing as if we still had two. Rather than trying to do everything at once, we focused on what served the songs best.
In the end, shorter songs weren’t a limitation—they became the right solution for the band we are today.
The Story of Transfiguration
13. The track sequence moves from “When We Fall” through sacrifice and transformation before reaching “The Will to Survive” and “Now We Rise.” Was the album deliberately built as one complete emotional narrative?
Yes, absolutely. The entire album was written with that sequence and purpose in mind. Each song represents a different stage in Shadowmare’s journey, from the very first track to the last.
The album gradually builds in both intensity and emotion, almost like chapters in a story. Rather than being just a collection of songs, Transfiguration was designed to be experienced from beginning to end, allowing the listener to follow the band’s evolution and the transformation that inspired the record.
14. The 44-second title track sits directly in the centre of the album. What is happening during “Transfiguration,” and why was it important to place that moment between the collapse and rebuilding sides of the record?
Its placement on the album came very naturally. We also wanted to challenge the expectations people had of Shadowmare. For years, we were known for writing long, technical songs full of solos and melodic passages.
That track is the complete opposite. It’s short, raw and direct, proving that we can express just as much with simplicity and intensity as we can with complexity.
Even though it’s one of the heaviest and most aggressive songs on the album, it also feels like a breath of fresh air. It breaks the pattern, adds a different dynamic to the record and reinforces the idea that Transfiguration is about embracing change rather than repeating the past.
15. “What Remains” follows immediately after the title piece. Once the old version of Shadowmare had fallen away, what did you discover was still essential and worth protecting?
We always felt there was something more to say. There was a different side of our songwriting that had been waiting to come out, and we’re glad it finally found its place in this album.
Now, all that’s left is to share that emotion and the purest version of ourselves with everyone who listens. There’s a strange but liberating feeling within the band at the moment, and every song on Transfiguration is a reflection of that freedom.
For the first time, it feels like we’re making exactly the music we were meant to make.
16. “The Will to Survive” is the longest track on the album. Did that subject require more space, and do you see it as the emotional centre of the record?
“The Will to Survive” is, above all, a statement of intent. It’s our way of saying that we’re still here and that we intend to keep going, regardless of what happens after the album is released.
Of course, every band hopes their new record will be well received, lead to more shows and reach new audiences. But we’re also realistic. We know how difficult it is, especially for an independent metal band.
This album was never about chasing commercial success or expecting a breakthrough. It was about proving—to ourselves more than anyone else—that we still have the determination to create, to evolve and to keep the legacy of Shadowmare alive. In that sense, The Will to Survive isn’t just a song title—it’s our mindset.
Portuguese Language, Sacrifice and Poli Correia
17. Shadowmare spent most of its history writing in English before “10 Anos de Nós para Vós” and now “Sacrificar Para Ganhar.” Has Portuguese become more important because the newer material is more personal and directly connected to your own experiences?
Writing and singing in our native language is always a different experience. It feels more personal, more natural and allows us to express certain emotions in a way that English simply can’t.
We first felt that connection with our previous Portuguese single, and with “Sacrificar para Ganhar” it’s even stronger. The song carries a level of authenticity that comes naturally when you’re writing in your own language.
At the same time, we noticed that many of our listeners had been asking for more songs in Portuguese. This track is our way of giving them that, while staying true to the identity and message of Transfiguration.
18. “Sacrificar Para Ganhar” is about sacrifice in order to move forward. What did the members of Shadowmare have to sacrifice to keep the band alive and reach this album?
“Sacrificar para Ganhar” is a message that goes far beyond the band. We believe it’s something everyone experiences in life—you have to take risks and make sacrifices if you want to move forward.
For us, trying to reach more listeners and keep Shadowmare alive comes at a cost. It means giving up time with our families, investing money that could be spent elsewhere, and dedicating countless hours to rehearsals and preparation for a performance that might only last 30 minutes.
Most people only see the show itself. They don’t see the logistics, the planning, the travelling or the work that happens behind the scenes. That’s the reality of being in an independent band.
Today, two of our members are also fathers, which adds another level of responsibility. Balancing family life, work and the band isn’t easy, but it’s a sacrifice we’re willing to make because we believe in what we’re building.
19. What made Poli Correia from Devil in Me the right guest for that song, and what did his hardcore background bring to Shadowmare’s sound and message?
Poli Correia is an outstanding frontman with an incredible stage presence, both on and off the stage. We’d crossed paths several times over the years, became friends, and always had a great deal of respect for what he does with Devil in Me.
When we started thinking about a guest vocalist, we didn’t want someone who would simply add another metal voice. We wanted someone who could bring a different perspective. Hardcore has always had a strong connection to lyrical depth and powerful messages, and that fit perfectly with what “Sacrificar para Ganhar” represents.
For us, there was no one better than Poli to elevate the song and give even more weight and authenticity to its message.
Looking Forward
20. After ten years, three albums and moments when the end felt close, what do you hope listeners understand about Shadowmare when they reach the end of Transfiguration that they could not have understood from your previous records?
We hope people feel the same energy we’ve been feeling during this chapter of the band. The biggest lesson we’ve learned is that, sometimes, less is more.
Today, what matters most to us is giving everything we have on stage, sharing unforgettable moments with the audience and enjoying the experience as both musicians and fans of heavy music.
We believe these songs are better at creating those moments than anything we’ve written before. They’re more direct, more emotional and more immediate. This is who Shadowmare is right now. Maybe in five or ten years we’ll be in a different place creatively, but today, this is what drives us.
For us, Transfiguration is proof that less can truly be more.
Transfiguration Tracklist
- “When We Fall”
- “Embrace the Way”
- “Sacrificar Para Ganhar” featuring Poli Correia
- “Transfiguration”
- “What Remains”
- “The Will to Survive”
- “Now We Rise”
Transfiguration will be self-released by Shadowmare on August 11, 2026, in digital and CD formats.
Links:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/intl-pt/artist/3E792KpDXUXQtpv3EdXqvp
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/pt/artist/shadowmare/1454107144
YouTube: https://youtu.be/wv1UX6s6jzw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadowmare_official
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shadowmare_official
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shadowmare2015
