HeartRage’s latest single “Collide” marks a bold leap into cinematic territory, blending orchestral grandeur with modern metal. We spoke with Constantin Ranis about collaboration, inspiration, and emotional storytelling.
1.
“Collide” is your most cinematic and theatrical release to date. What inspired
the grand, orchestral direction of this track?
The track was actually written quite a while ago. I had the guitars and overall
instrumentation done, along with some basic keys to sketch out the vibe. Then I
connected with Alexandra on Instagram, and we started talking about a potential
collaboration. I sent her the track, and she immediately ran with it—adding
these majestic orchestral and classical elements that gave the song a whole new
dimension. Once I had her arrangement, I refined my post-production elements to
better blend the cinematic textures with modern metal. That’s really when the
vision came together.
2. How
did the collaboration with Pete Rawcliffe, Alexandra Gicheska, and Peter
Papapetrou come about, and what did each bring to the emotional depth of the
song?
I knew Alexandra and Pete through Instagram. I had everything written, but I
was still missing a vocalist. I reached out to Pete and asked if he could
imagine singing on the track. Once he heard the demo, he immediately said
yes—he told me it was the most modern track he’s ever sung on, and he really
enjoyed stepping into that world.
Peter, on the other hand, is someone I’ve known for years—he actually taught me
the basics of guitar when I was starting out, from how to play power chords to
palm muting. So having him contribute a guest solo on this track was a
full-circle moment.
Each of them brought their unique voice and spirit to the song. They didn’t
just perform—they left their fingerprints on it. I couldn’t be happier with how
it turned out.
3. The
vocal performance by Pete Rawcliffe is incredibly powerful and expressive. What
led you to choose him as the lead voice for this track?
I knew this song would be vocally demanding, and while I know several talented
singers, none of them felt quite right for this one. Pete has a crazy range and
the kind of expressive power I needed. From the start, I had a gut feeling he
was the perfect fit. And he absolutely exceeded expectations—when I heard the
final mix, I literally got chills.
4.
You’ve described “Collide” as what might happen if Bring Me The Horizon and
Within Temptation had a child. Was this hybrid style a conscious goal from the
beginning?
Actually, no—it wasn’t planned at all. But once Alexandra added her orchestral
elements, the direction naturally started leaning that way. That blend of
cinematic metalcore with symphonic layers just made sense, and I embraced it as
the song evolved.
5.
Compared to earlier HeartRage tracks like “Dystopic Future” or “Save Yourself,”
“Collide” feels more narrative-driven. Is there a specific story or message
behind the lyrics?
Yes, definitely. The lyrics are actually quite romantic—it’s about the strength
of love and how deeply it can transform two people. It’s about that emotional
bond that helps them grow together and become something greater than they were
alone. We often hear songs about toxic relationships, but I wanted to write
something that celebrates how powerful and uplifting love can be when it’s
real.
6. This
song blends metal, electronic, and orchestral layers seamlessly. What was the
biggest challenge in producing and mixing such a dense arrangement?
I didn’t mix the track myself, but I always write with arrangement in mind.
Having a basic understanding of music theory and mixing really helps when
composing—I try to think in terms of frequency space and layering from the
beginning. Making sure every element has its own place prevents things from
clashing, even in a dense mix like this.
7.
“Collide” was mixed and mastered at Abbey Road Studios—an iconic place. How did
it feel to have your work shaped in such a legendary space?
Actually, Collide was mixed and mastered by Justin Mitchell at Kings Studios.
He’s worked with bands like I Am King. We got connected when he reached out to
me about trying some impulse responses he’d created. I checked out his work,
and it instantly clicked—he was the right person to give this track the polish
it needed.
8. With
each release, HeartRage seems to expand its collaborative network. Do you see
yourself continuing this rotating-guest approach, or are you leaning toward a
more consistent lineup in the future?
If I were to build a consistent lineup, it would mainly be to play live. But
for now, I really enjoy collaborating with musicians from all over the
world—especially because I write in a variety of styles. This rotating-guest
model keeps things fresh, and each release feels like something unique and
special.
9.
What’s next for HeartRage in 2025? Is “Collide” a standalone single, or will it
be part of a larger body of work like an EP or full-length album?
Right now, my plan is to release a new single every 3 to 4 months. So
yes—Collide is a standalone release, but definitely not the last. The
instrumentals for my next two singles are already done, and I’m working with
two different vocalists again. The styles are once again very different from
one another, so you can expect some surprises.
10.
Finally, what do you hope listeners take away emotionally after hearing
“Collide”? What does this track say about where you are now as an artist and
human being?
HeartRage gives me the freedom to express myself in any way I feel—no labels,
no boundaries. I just follow wherever the inspiration leads. Each song is its
own story, its own journey. With Collide, I hope people feel a sense of
emotional connection and power—something uplifting, something human. It’s a
reflection of where I am right now: evolving, open, and driven by pure creative
instinct.
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