Melian is one of the most influential post-hardcore bands in South America, formed in Buenos Aires in 2008. Over more than 15 years, the group has built a strong following through emotional lyrics and an evolving, powerful sound. Their music combines intensity, vulnerability, and personal storytelling, creating a deep connection with audiences across the region.
Vocalist Alejandro Picardo, now 36, reflects on how both the band and its message grow alongside its members. “In 16 years, we learned to play better, and that inevitably changes our sound,” he says to The Asunción Times. He explains that shifting influences, experiences, and line-up changes shape the band’s creative direction over time. Yet, despite evolution, he believes Melian always maintains a recognisable identity.
A Paraguayan presence within the band
The band’s connection to Paraguay grows strongly with bassist Sergio Solalinde, who lives in Asunción. Picardo describes him as a committed and energetic presence both on and off stage. “He brings a lot of energy and organisation to the band.” Their friendship existed long before he officially joined.
Solalinde initially stepped in to help the band continue performing during a transitional period. “He offered to cover the space so we could keep playing.” Over time, his dedication made it clear he belonged in the group. He officially became a member just over a year ago. Despite the distance, Solalinde remains closely involved in every aspect of the band. “He is always present, organising and pushing us to keep creating.” For the vocalist, his presence reflects how music connects people beyond national borders.
A special bond with Paraguay
Melian has performed in Paraguay several times, building a strong relationship with local audiences. Picardo remembers each visit with affection and gratitude. “Paraguay always welcomes us with open arms and makes us feel at home.” Travelling through music is something he values deeply. “We get to travel because someone in Paraguay wants to see us live.” He describes being shown around Asunción, visiting local landmarks, and feeling part of the community. He also believes music breaks down cultural and geographic barriers. “It does not matter if we are Argentine or Paraguayan, the energy is the same.”
Growth, change, and finding a voice
Picardo describes Melian’s transformation as both musical and personal, shaped by maturity and life experiences. “At 36, I’m not the same person I was at 20 when I started. The messages we shared at 20 reflected the maturity of that age. Now we have other concerns, other urgencies, and that changes the way we write.” According to him, growing older and building families shift perspective and shape what the band wants to express. He adds that changing band members also leaves a mark on Melian’s sound and composition process. “Each musician brings different influences, and that affects how songs are created.”
For Picardo, songwriting is deeply tied to lived experiences and emotional honesty. “Melian’s songs are always self-referential.” Some of his most personal lyrics come from childhood experiences. “I never knew my father, and I turned that into a song.” Writing about personal pain helps him process it and connect with others who feel the same. According to him, that vulnerability becomes one of the strongest bonds with the audience.
Now, new experiences bring fresh inspiration, including fatherhood. “I just became a dad, and that makes me want to write songs for my daughter.” He views music as a way to leave messages, lessons, and memories for the future. In earlier years, heartbreak, lost friendships, and personal struggles often shaped his lyrics.
Balancing nostalgia with new music
For Picardo, some songs become symbols of the bond between the band and its audience. “For example, Montañas is perhaps the anthem that represents our bond with people. It is s a song that speaks about how together we can move mountains.” He explains that seeing the crowd sing those words back creates one of the most powerful moments in any show. As Melian continues to release new material, the band also faces the challenge of honouring older songs that fans still love. Picardo sees this as a delicate but necessary balance. “Playing live is about giving something back to the audience. Why would I complain about playing a song that is 15 years old if it still means something to them?” At the same time, Melian wants listeners to experience new sounds and ideas. For Picardo, music begins as a personal form of catharsis but grows into something larger. “I dreamed my music could heal someone the way other bands helped me.”
A night of catharsis at “Sad Valentín”
Melian now prepares to return to Paraguay for a special event that challenges the traditional meaning of Valentine’s Day. Picardo describes it as a celebration of emotion, noise, and shared experience. “It is about embracing heartbreak and turning it into catharsis.” The show promises intensity and connection rather than romance.
The event, titled “Sad Valentín”, takes place on 14 February from 19:00 at Voudevil. Melian shares the stage with Paraguayan bands Nhandei Zha, Destruye Todo Imperio, La Sal de la Tierra, and Kava. Argentine group Scream of Glory also joins the line-up.
For more information on the Argentine band and Melian’s upcoming shows, follow Melian on Instagram.
Read more: Spiritbox: The Grammy-Nominated Force Opening For Korn In Paraguay.
