About "Heart of Darkness" (Tales of Dracula):

I've always been a fan of the classic horror movies, having been obsessed since I can remember and a HUGE fan of 'Dracula'. When I first heard about Wolfbain Productions plans to make a film about 'Dracula' filmed in the 'Universal' style, I immediately wanted to be a part of it in one way or another. Unfortunately, it never happened either to being in other projects or missing auditions because of these projects. I covered the film several times (horror-Punks.com / The Horror Of It All video series) doing updates, interviews and behind the scene looks but never made the cut. Then one day I received a message from producer Joe DeMuro asking me to write a song for the film's closing credits. He asked that it be in the symphonic Metal style and that he needed it within a month.

With the suggestion that I use some lines from the film (Tales of Dracula) or either 'Dracula', I was struck by the duality of emotions suggested in these lines I was given (Hate / love, etc...). Also the fact that many of these lines have been used and sampled far too many times in the past. I needed a fresh source for my inspiration. Since I was privy to a sneak peek of the film, the Dracula I saw in 'Tales of Dracula' was unforgiving, cold, ruthless and heartless; a remorseless monster. Using this interpretation as the center piece, it all fell into place. While I still used some of the suggested lines, I changed them slightly to give them a different take and not make them sound cliche'.

As we've all been lead to believe (via fact & fiction), Dracula blames God for the loss of his betrothed and this contempt is the focal point of the song. Producer Jeff DaBella is credited with coming up with creating a song that was symphonic in nature. With both of us inspired heavily by Alice Cooper. We were able to create a song that is theatrical, horrifying and tragic. The song ranges in emotions from the solitude to which Dracula is condemned, to the utter contempt he feels for his victims and to God himself...

With the addition of Mistress Jessica's spectral vocals, 'Heart of Darkness' will take you on an epic journey through decrepit castles, dark haunting forests and to the very heart of darkness that lies within Dracula... Histories most legendary nightmare.

Mark Dickinson aka 'Marquis DeBlood'