Pantaleimon is the pseudonym of Andria Degens, usually working alone but occasionally with friends helping out on dulcimer, singing bowl or vocals. Degens is a veteran of the indie scene, having sung with both Wire and Dirty Three, but her own music is surprisingly simple, haunting and beautiful music, wavering between meditative and psychedelic. Her first album, Trees Hold Time, was released in 1999, and her second, Mercy Oceans, was released last year.

Dazed Digital: How long have you been making music and why did you start?
Andria Degens: I started when I was a young child. I would always play around with my little Casio or my acoustic guitar, working out tunes and riffs. I always had a soft spot for circularity! I used to record things on an old cassette recorder my dad gave me. Later, in my early twenties, I took a trip around the world which ended up lasting two and half years. During that trip I had an epiphany and another world opened up to me - a world which had always been there for me, but which I had forgotten about. Pantaleimon's music is rooted in those experiences; they returned me to who I was, and became a way to manifest the feelings that I found difficult to express in my everyday life.
DD: Who's your musical hero?
AD: Probably still David Bowie. He's been my hero since I was twelve years old.
DD: What do you want to achieve in 2008?
AD: I would like to play live more. I often find live performances quite nerve-wracking and in 2008 I really want to face those fears head-on. I am intrinsically a studio hermit.
DD: What's your favourite musical memory?
AD: There have been so many over the years.  Most recently though, being moved and inspired watching the guitarist Jack Rose. He mesmerised me with the beauty and passion of his music.
DD: What do you want the world to know about you?
AD: I have a weakness for chocolate. Actually to be more specific raw cacao. I also collect rocks, pebbles and stones.