In the quiet after the dissolution of Oathbreaker, Gilles Demolder turned inwards and started to make music that didn’t fit within his previous work, nor with his ongoing contributions to Wiegedood. This music emerged under the banner of Siem Reap by way of debut album Now What? and showcased Gilles’ skill as a singer-songwriter. Here at Roadburn we have long lauded the virtues of different kinds of heaviness; we know that no blast beats are required to summon emotional heaviness. Entirely understanding the assignment, Gilles creates emotionally weighty missives by way of his beautiful songwriting. We’re delighted that he’ll be bringing his confessional tunes to Roadburn in 2026.
Siem Reap’s just-released new album, Wishin’ I Was Fishin’ picks up the autobiographical threads of Now What?. Confrontational in his ability to shine a light on the darkest corners of his psyche and cheerfully mine his saddest middle-of-the-night thoughts for material, Wishin’ I Was Fishin’ is an intimate portrait of Gilles’ fears, hopes and regrets. His self-aware, sardonic lyricism halts the slide into wallowing in misery and offers something for fans of American Football and Kurt Vile.
Of his set at Roadburn, Gilles comments:
“It feels so great to play roadburn this year with Siem Reap the same year Oathbreaker returns after 9 years. Siem Reap has been the creative vehicle for me ever since Oathbreaker went on a little break. In my mind, both projects occupy the same emotional & melodic space, and Siem Reap only feels like an extension of where Oathbreaker ended. Happy to be able to present these songs to the Roadburn crowd”
After he’s blown away the cobwebs on Saturday with Oathbreaker, Gilles will return to the Roadburn stage for a somewhat quieter, introspective performance with Siem Reap. We can’t wait.
– Becky Laverty
