Greek
death dealers Misanthropy Apotheosis recently released their superb second
album “Crush the Mask of Virtue” on Repulsive Echo and have received some
recognition from the underground for their crushing sound. Check them out if
you enjoy murderous, hellish death metal! I
got in touch with their vocalist Kydoimos to talk about their musical
influences, themes, and even dogs.
1. Hails!
You released your second album "Crush the Mask of Virtue" last year -
how has it been perceived so far and are you satisfied with the feedback?
2. Can you tell us what the name Misanthropy Apotheosis stands for and how the connotations match your world view?
The name "Misanthropy Apotheosis" has a double meaning. It shows the way we, as individuals, feel about humanity as a whole. We don't like people. We don't like the human nature as it is today. We despise everything humanity stands for. Human race is a scum race. On the other hand, the band's name shows the true nature of humans. Just look around you. War, hate, crime, hypocrisy, cruelty, deceit, exploitation... You name it.
3. Can you elaborate a bit on the title and themes behind your last album? What is the Mask of Virtue?
The new album is about genocide, systematic elimination of the human kind through nuclear warfare, our views on how to exterminate child molesters, revenge, Chinese execution methods such as "death by a thousand cuts", the way war changes someone into an animal with primal instincts, hypocrisy of the Church/those who have power in their hands, ancient Greek war demons etc. The Mask of Virtue is the mask of hypocrisy, the mask of virtue signalling...humanity itself.
4. I
liked your rendition of Bolt Thrower's The IVth Crusade from your debut album
"Black Death Euphoria". How much of an impact did they have on your
sound and which other bands influenced you?
We really like Bolt Thrower. They have this unique atmosphere. They are heavy, brutal yet melodic in an epic way. Warmaster & IVth Crusade are personal favourites because they are so heavy and dark. Our rendition of The IVth Crusade war a humble tribute to them. As a band we are influenced by the old Death & Thrash Metal gods, you know, Slayer, Autopsy, Protector, Morbid Angel, Sodom, Mortician etc.
5. What are some notable differences between “Black Death Euphoria” and “Crush the Mask of Virtue”? Compared to the former, the latter seems to have a more vibrant production, including a neoclassical influence in the guitar solos.
I think "Black Death Euphoria" is more atmospheric, with a muddy production and more obscure lyrics. On the other hand, "Crush the Mask of Virtue" is way more hateful and brutal, faster and with an "in your face" live aesthetic with very unique guitar solos. We don't like to repeat ourselves. We like to catch the listener by surprise.
6. What makes Greek death metal so unique? Do you think it has something to do with your dialect or your environment? Do most bands there use the same recording studios?
It's the classic Greek sound I believe. The old Rotting Christ/Varathron sound. Most bands try to reproduce or even copy that sound. Especially the black metal bands. Well, we don't. Don't get me wrong, we totally respect those bands and that's why we don't try to copy them sound-wise. We need to do our own thing. We have more of an "Autopsy" way of thinking on that matter, I mean, back in the 90's when all the death metal bands were trying to play ultra-fast and have a polished production, Autopsy were doing their own unique thing and I respect them so much for that.
7. Can you tell us how you approach songwriting and if you consider yourselves perfectionists in any way?
I can't say much on that matter. We write music/lyrics only when we have something to say. Nothing is premeditated. We don't have that "let's be darker or faster or more brutal on this one" mindset. We are the Devils in our personal hell, so when our inner devil commands...then we know it's time. And yes, we are perfectionists. We always find something we think we could do differently hahah.
8. Has
your country's historical significance influenced you or shaped your identity
in any way? What do you think about Greek mythology?
Yes, of course. Greek history and mythology is full of life lessons. We are very proud of our heritage and history. It's in the blood, you know.
9. What kind of movies, art and books are you into? Any recommendations?
Old horror movies, especially Italian and Spanish, from the 60's, 70's, 80's. We also love horror literature. I recommend "Exquisite Corpse" by Poppy Z. Brite or "The Eyes" by Jesus Ignacio Aldapuerta. Not for everyone.
10. What do you think about the current situation in Europe, with the ongoing war? Do people sometimes take what they have for granted?
People always take what they have for granted. Good times create arrogant and weak men, you know? On the matter of the ongoing war in Europe I'll just say this: as an old Greek politician once said "if Balkans are the power keg of Europe, then Europe is the power keg of the whole world"
11. Mandatory question: what are 10 albums you can’t live without?
That's a really tough one, man... Slayer: First 4 albums, Mortician: Hacked up for BBQ, Autopsy: Acts of the unspeakable, Morbid Angel: Altars of madness, Suffocation: Effigy of the forgotten, Archgoat: The light devouring darkness, Iron Maiden: Live after death.
12. I
know you are a big dog person. What is it about dogs that makes you so fond of
them? Should people who mistreat animals be killed?
Yeah, I am a
dog trainer. I really love and respect dogs so much. Once you understand them,
you see just how amazing creatures they are. They are extremely smart, loving,
loyal, and protective and they ask nothing in return. I own a German shepherd.
Best breed ever!!! Extremely clever and loyal. And brutally strong yet well
mannered. Won't hesitate to put his life in danger for those he loves. Why the
hell someone would harm an animal for no reason? I mean, If I ever catch
someone mistreat an animal...he better get used living in a wheelchair.
13. What’s next for Misanthropy Apotheosis? Thanks for your time!
Our label, Repulsive Echo, is planning to re-release our debut album "Black Death Euphoria". Also, we are working on a new EP with five new songs. Stay alert and thank you for this unique interview!
