Michael Goldberg’s latest song “Dorian’s Dance (Midnight Metal Remix)” is an exciting new version of a classical piano piece that has been transformed with the power of metal music. The remix was inspired by Michael Goldberg’s son’s love for metal, and it combines deep guitar sounds, heavy drums, and violin to create a strong, rhythmic track that hits harder while keeping the original melody intact. Using the dark and flowing Dorian musical scale, the remix builds an intense yet cinematic feeling, mixing midnight-inspired atmosphere with metallic power to create a sound that feels both epic and mysterious.
This project is Michael Goldberg’s biggest work to date and represents a rich collaboration with talented musicians, including co-composer Misha Stefanuk, guitarist and bassist Rich Gray, drummer Fabio Alessandrini, and violinist Peter Voronov. The careful production process used innovative methods such as tempo mapping and parallel drum processing to keep the music powerful but clear.
In this interview, we explore the creative journey behind Dorian’s Dance (Midnight Metal Remix), the challenges of balancing heavy sound with melody, and what it means to bring classical themes into modern metal music. Discover how this remix bridges different musical styles and emotions, promising an engaging listening experience that invites both head movement and repeated listening.
Listen to Dorian’s Dance (Midnight Metal Remix)
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Can you walk us through the inspiration behind “Dorian’s Dance (Midnight Metal Remix)” and how it differs from the original version?
I started piano in 2022 and most of my work leans neo-classical. My son’s love of metal nudged me to reimagine “Dorian’s Dance” with more weight. The Dorian mode motif naturally lent itself to baritone guitars, bass, metal drums, and featured violin.
The remix is tighter rhythmically and hits harder while preserving the original melody. I also want to acknowledge my teacher and mentor, Misha Stefanuk—co composer on the track—who has guided me immensely. And Sam’s graphics give the release a strong visual identity.
What drew you to blend the themes of “Dorian’s Dance” with a heavier, metal-driven sound?
The Dorian theme already had forward motion and a dark tint. That gave Rich Gray (guitar/bass) a clear harmonic lane to anchor (he did some heavy lifting), and Fabio Alessandrini brought the precision and power the track needed on drums.
The title references “midnight” and “metal” — how did you translate those moods into the track’s sonic palette?
“Midnight” guided the atmosphere: space, low end focus, and restrained reverb. “Metal” drove the impact: down tuned guitars and double kick patterns. Together they build tension and resolve without feeling overworked.
Were there any particular artists, genres, or personal experiences that influenced this remix’s direction?
A lifetime of classical listening and, more recently, a deep dive into modern instrumental metal—thanks to my son. The goal wasn’t volume for its own sake, but melodic clarity supported by heavy rhythm work.
What was the biggest challenge in reimagining the song while staying true to its original essence?
Managing density. With guitars, drums, piano, and Peter Voronov’s violin, it’s easy to crowd the theme. We carved space so the motif leads and each part serves the whole rather then feeling like simply adding lot’s of clutter.
How did the production process for this remix compare to your usual workflow? Did you experiment with any new techniques or gear?
It was my largest project to date and a true collaboration. I record piano on a Roland into Logic Pro via a Universal Audio x4. We tempo mapped the odd meter sections, re amped guitars, and used parallel processing on drums to keep transients intact. Luca Zara handled the final mix and master.
The remix has a cinematic energy — was there a visual or narrative concept in your mind while creating it?
I love cinematic writing, and Peter’s soaring violin over Rich’s guitar/bass rhythms gives it an epic, soundtrack feel. It mirrors a night drive arc without literal storytelling.
What kind of reaction are you hoping listeners will have when they hear this version for the first time?
A head nod and a replay—energy, mystery, and a sense of momentum as the parts lock together.
If “Dorian’s Dance (Midnight Metal Remix)” were part of a live show, how would you envision performing it on stage?
It would be an honor to share the stage with such seasoned players. I’d expect high energy with tight cues around the meter changes.
Looking ahead, do you plan to explore more metal-inspired remixes, or was this a one-off creative experiment?
I’m continuing. A vocal version of “Dorian Metal” is in production, and a few more metal leaning pieces are underway. Glad to be a part of the metal family!
Collaborators:
• Misha Stefanuk — Co composer / keys · stefanuk.com
• Peter Voronov — Violin · petervoronov.com
• Rich Gray — Guitar & Bass · graymatteraudio.com
• Fabio Alessandrini — Drums · Instagram @f.alessandrini
• Sam Scott Thorne — Vocals / Graphic Design · sstvocalcoach@gmail.com
• Luca Zara — Mixing & Mastering · lucazaramusic@gmail.com
