1.      Per Velum is Latin for Through the Veil, how does this thematic context apply to the band and what made you decide to use it?

From Theo's perspective:

From my  perspective, the name “Through the Veil” fits the idea that the music is about looking beyond everyday life and imagining what could be. The songs follow ideas and a story that grows over time, kind of like chapters in a book. It started because I think a lot about life, dreams, and the future, and writing music helps me understand those thoughts.

The concept lets our band explore big ideas while creating music that connects with listeners on different levels. It’s meant to be a journey, not just individual songs, and the name reflects that idea of moving beyond what we immediately see and experiencing something deeper as a collective during our shows.

2.      How did you come together? What's the origin story of your band?

From Theo’s  perspective:

After playing in other youth bands, I decided I wanted to focus on creating original music and taking my musical journey more seriously. I started jamming with some musicians in the local scene, including Alex, our bassist. Later, Enoc, our drummer, answered an ad we posted on Instagram, and it was clear right away that he was a great fit—plus he already knew Alex from previous projects.

I met Fergus at Rock Camp Alberta, and he initially stepped in to play bass while Alex was away for the birth of his child. When Alex decided to stay in the band after becoming a dad, we realized how talented Fergus was and invited him to switch to rhythm guitar so we could keep him in the group. That’s how Per Velum came together—through connections in the music community and a shared interest in creating something meaningful.

3.      Having played in both Edmonton and Calgary have you noticed any differences in the local music culture between the two?

Good question! We are still getting to know the music scene in Edmonton compared to Calgary, but from our show at The Starlite Room, we really noticed how vibrant and supportive the crowd was. We met a lot of new people, including fans and musicians we had crossed paths with at metal festivals or through social media, which made it feel very welcoming.

It’s still early for us to compare the scenes in detail, but we are excited to keep playing in both cities and learning more. We'll definitely have a better answer as we spend more time in Edmonton and Calgary’s music communities. Our next Edmonton show is Hi-Light festival April 12 at The Aviary , we play 6:15pm and tickets can be purchased now!

4.      Per Velum is led by 13‑year‑old frontman Theo Will, who’s already being described as a prodigy. How has his age and talent shaped the band’s identity and creative direction?

From the manager’s perspective:

The fact that the band has been led and guided by a 12-year-old frontman (now 13) has naturally shaped Per Velum’s identity and fanbase. It attracted musicians who were comfortable supporting a young visionary without ego, and who respect his extraordinary drive and work ethic. Theo’s age and talent have drawn attention to the band, though at times it has created limitations—some events decline applications because they assume per velum is “kid-focused,” and certain 18+ venues are unable or unwilling to obtain underage performance permits.

At the same time, the mix of ages within the group strengthens its identity. It allows the band to connect with younger audiences in Calgary and beyond, while also appealing to adults who appreciate the novelty and seriousness of a young musician who often collaborates and writes with maturity beyond his years. Theo’s prolific output and ambition shape the creative direction, and the band embraces that energy rather than trying to hold it back.

5.      If you had to describe your music to a new listener in 5 words what would they be?

Relatable

Technical

Heavy

Energetic

Progressive

6.      Your music is hard, fast and punchy. What musical inspiration does the band draw from and what would you like your fans to get out of your music?

Each member of Per Velum brings different musical influences, which actually helps us create something unique. Enoc’s background in country music helps him play tight, well-timed drum parts that keep the songs moving without overdoing it. Alex draws from funk and punk, giving the bass lines a groove and energy that feels different from typical metal. Fergus comes from the hardcore scene, so he adds power and crowd-pumping intensity to our sound.

For Theo, he loves the epic storytelling and shreddy guitar riffs of power metal, along with clean vocals that tell a big story. At the same time, he also enjoys heavier elements like breakdowns from metalcore because they bring punch and excitement.

What we want fans to get out of our music is energy and connection. Whether it’s the fast, hard parts or the more melodic and story-driven moments, we hope listeners feel something—motivation, excitement, or even a chance to think about bigger ideas. Our goal is to create music that is both fun to listen to and meaningful in its themes.

7.      What does 2026 have in store for Per Velum? Any upcoming shows/tours or releases?

It’s been a busy year for Per Velum, and we’ve got a lot coming up. We recently announced shows in Calgary in March and at Edmonton’s Hi-Light Festival in April. Because we won two battle of the bands competitions, we’ll also be playing at AmpFest in Canmore and Waynestock in Wayne this summer.