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No Mean Metalheads: An Interview with Opal In Sky

No Mean Metalheads: An Interview with Opal In Sky

      “It hasn’t really sunk in for me yet that all these people are actually coming to see us,” shares Dylon Opalinksy, one of the twin frontmen of Opal In Sky. Along with his brother Tyson, the metalhead twins – referencing one of their viral skits – are dedicated to sharing positivity through their music. Despite their metal discography not appearing to be the usual backdrop for maintaining hope amid hardships and promoting self-love, it is precisely this unique selling point that has garnered them online popularity and a loyal fanbase. With over 400k followers on Instagram, they create content that challenges metalhead stereotypes, breaks down subgenres, and highlights metal bands from around the globe. When the twins join our call, they attach their signature clip-on microphones – previously affixed to John Wick action figures, wooden spoons, and oversized guitar picks – this time to colorful pencils they spin around.

      Tyson and Dylon Opalinsky have performed together as a musical duo for the majority of their lives. Raised on a rich mix of blues and classic rock thanks to their father and his bandmates, the twins list Avenged Sevenfold, Bullet for My Valentine, and Killswitch Engage as their early inspirations. Tyson adds, “Coheed and Cambria’s ‘Welcome Home’ was in a movie trailer for 9. The first time we heard it, we were headbanging” – they both mimic the moment – “like, what is this? That was our main introduction to heavier music.” Except for a brief year-and-a-half period when Dylon moved from Edmonton to Vancouver for a vocal opportunity, the twins have been in each other’s bands throughout their lives, teaching themselves how to record and mix music. They are now infusing their own perspective into music, transforming metal into a medium for positive affirmations and combating insecurities, with sub-genre labels like “death-poscore,” “posi-deathcore,” and “happy death.”

      Despite a life-long passion for music, their rise to success has caught the duo off-guard. “When we attend a show and see a massive crowd gathered to watch Opal In Sky, it still feels surreal,” Dylon explains. “It feels like there’s just a large room of people, and we’re playing a show they happen to enjoy.” This perception of coincidence is far from the reality – the twins’ distinct metalcore tracks that resonate with listeners’ insecurities and fears have created a special bond with their fanbase. Despite their international popularity, the twins continue to work part-time, as their social media fame hasn’t easily translated into substantial financial backing, with profit primarily coming from their YouTube and Facebook content. However, with a steadily increasing international following, support from their coworkers, and a recent signing with a UK and EU agent, change is on the horizon for Opal In Sky. They have ambitions to perform everywhere from Japan to Scotland, including a noteworthy mention of Liechtenstein. “We had someone message us from Liechtenstein,” Tyson laughs. “What even is Liechtenstein? Let’s go there!”

      Amid the skits, internet trolls, and irate metal purists in their comment sections, Opal In Sky conveys an essential message: the most metal thing is being yourself and caring for those around you. “You go to a metal show, and it’s like, whoa, they’re pushing a little harder [than at a rock concert], but I feel safe!” Tyson reminisces about an early experience in a mosh pit. “Because you’re supposed to look after one another and help each other up.”

      First, congratulations on completing your Eastern Canada tour! How has that experience been for both of you?

      Dylon: It was incredible. We could use many words to describe it because each city offered a completely unique experience. Overall, it was just amazing. The crowd was energetic, and the compassion people showed for our presence was wonderful.

      Tyson: It was really fun and beautiful to witness. We traveled from one coast to the other, packed into a little dive bar. Halifax was wild, bouncing off the walls – although some people got hurt, we made sure they were okay. It was amazing to realize our reach has extended across the entire country.

      Opal In Sky began as a studio band, so touring at this scale is relatively new for you. How have you adjusted to life on the road?

      Dylon: We played many live shows growing up, but nothing compared to visiting all these places. The touring aspect is really enjoyable [and] much better with days off. It's refreshing to experience tour life when you have time to rest your voice and explore the beautiful cities you’re in. Montreal was absolutely stunning – I could probably spend days just wandering the streets.

      Tyson: We have this dance in the song ‘Serene’ that we perform. On the first night [with tourmates Single Wound], they intended

No Mean Metalheads: An Interview with Opal In Sky No Mean Metalheads: An Interview with Opal In Sky No Mean Metalheads: An Interview with Opal In Sky

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No Mean Metalheads: An Interview with Opal In Sky

"It hasn't fully registered for me yet that all these people are genuinely coming to see us," says Dylon Opalinksy, one of the two frontmen of Opal In Sky.