| Aenima | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Almada, Portugal |
| Genres | Gothic rock, ethereal wave |
| Years active | 1997–present |
| Associated acts | Millennium, Poetry of Shadows, Isiphilon, Ava Inferi |
| Website | www.aenima.org |
| Members | |
| Susana Rune Paulo Rui |
|
| Past members | |
| Carmen Pedro Lito Hugo Nor Joao Rui Miguel Vasco Mario |
|
Aenima is a Portuguese gothic rock band from Almada, formed in 1997. The name of the band is a play on the Latin word "anima" meaning "soul".[1] The band is notable for its guitar-based ambient sound and clear female vocals.
The band is quite often compared to Cocteau Twins and Dead Can Dance by critics.[2][3][4]
Aenima was founded in 1997 by guitarist and producer Rune (previously with Millennium) and vocalist Carmen (previously with Poetry of Shadows and Isiphilon). They soon added bassist Paulo, guitarist Nor and drummer Hugo to their line-up.[5] Carmen was band's main lyricist during her years with Aenima.
Aenima's debut LP album, titled "Revolutions", was released in 1999 by Symbiose label. Originally the band was signed for two-album deal, but their record label seen went out of business so Aenima had to look for another publisher.[5]
The follow-up record, Never Fragile, was released by Equilibrium Music label in 2002. With its 6 tracks, Never Fragile is considered to be an EP or Maxi-single. It was highly praised by the critics.[6][7]
In 2003, Aenima released their second full-length album "Sentient" via US-based Middle Pillar Presents label, becoming the first European act to be signed by the label.[8][9]
Carmen, who was the original vocalist who sung on three albums, left the band after "Sentient" was released. She was soon replaced with a new singer Susana, a graduate of Lisbon Conservatory. As of 2007, the band was working on recording of their new yet unnamed album.[3]