EP review: Penny Coffin - Τεφρα (2021)

Penny Coffin - Τεφρα

Scotland

Self-released

The debut EP by Scottish trio, Penny Coffin, offers three tracks of unholy, knuckle-dragging Death Metal that leaves more than just a few dead hippies in its wake. The music is reasonably well-recorded, with a production job that allows everything to be heard and stand out. The band employs blood-curdling vocals with meaty, galloping riffs that is nothing short of devastating. The guitars sometimes venture into more technical territory, with riffs sharp enough to cut through bone. This whole release induces a menacing atmosphere augmented by an array of sludgy rhythms and heavy low-end. The drums are mixed well and consists of various tempos that compliment the music. I didn’t hear any solos in the mix, although, the songs does not seem to lack any depth without them and are well executed regardless. If you’re looking for something slightly different, yet still totally heavy as fuck, then check it out. “Τεφρα” is an auspicious first offering and a hint of what the future holds for the band. For fans of: Cruciamentum, Cerebral Rot, Diabolizer.  (HT) 

Album review: Homicide - Minotaur Unleashed (2020)

Homicide – Minotaur Unleashed (2020)

Bangladesh

Vrykoblast Productions

Homicide is a Death Metal band from Dhaka, Bangladesh, and “Minotaur Unleashed” is their debut full-length released by Vrykoblast Productions on pro CD format. 

The sound of Homicide is very much in the traditional vein, striking a balance between melody and more technical arrangements. It definitely borders on Tech-death, but not in an overwhelming way. All songs are memorable and can easily be distinguished, as well as the fact that the music is exceptionally well-played. One can hear trace elements from bands such as Suffocation, Krisiun, and Monstrosity, so that basically tells me that the band is strongly influenced by classic Death Metal, but with a slightly modern production. There are some really killer songs on this album like ‘Whipped, Chained, Burned’ and ‘Repatriate’ but overall it’s hard to pinpoint favourites since the entire album is super solid. 

It’s important to note that the band is from Bangladesh, which isn’t exactly a country that is particularly famous for its metal scene; however, make no mistake, there’s certainly more than a handful of worthy acts hailing from that part of the world and Homicide is definitely one of them. “Minotaur Unleashed” is all around a solid album and I can definitely recommend it to fans of good Death Metal. (HT)

Split review: Nameless Tomb / Sadomortuary - Nameless Mortuary (2020)

 

Nameless Tomb / Sadomortuary – Nameless Mortuary

Germany / Italy

Goatmarch Distro

The aptly titled “Nameless Mortuary” is a split release between Nameless Tomb (Ger) and Sadomortuary (Ita) released under Goatmarch Distro from Greece. Both of these bands embody the true essence of the underground and transmit a veritably evil atmosphere that many bands lack nowadays.

Inaugurating the madness is Nameless Tomb from Berlin, Germany, offering five tracks of vicious and vociferous Black/Death Metal that could potentially drive your neighbours insane. Their side of the split starts with an audio sample of Armin Meiwes, which is quite fitting considering the band is from Germany. The music is characterized by sinister and buzzy guitars, unintelligible growls, primitive, yet well-executed drums, and an unabashedly raw production. Their style conforms to the formula of old-school, raw and bestial Black/Death Metal that gives nods to bands like Corpse Molestation, Havohej and Abhorer. In other words, this is some killer fucking shit. 

The next attack comes from Sadomortuary from Mantua, Italy – and just like Nameless Tomb – they offer more or less the same palette of aural sickness, albeit even more primitive, with a sound sonically on par with bands like Beherit, Weregoat, and Sadomator. The music is – as mentioned above – utterly primitive, ugly and raucous. Their songs aren’t particularly short either and succeed in inducing a profoundly devilish atmosphere, pulling you into the darkest corridors of the bottomless pit with their brand of ritualistic Black/Death. 

All in all, both bands deliver. In fact, this is one of my favourite split releases of late. I definitely recommend it to those into the more bestial and crude sounding stuff. (HT)

Demo review: Sküllfükk SS - Uncut Speed (2021)

Sküllfükk SS – Uncut Speed (2021)

Estonia

Corrupted Flesh Records

The beer-cuzzling crew from Estonia called Sküllfükk SS unleash pure havoc on their latest demo (“Uncut Speed”) featuring 7 tracks of sleazy and offensive black/thrash/speed metal. 

The whole release is permeated with a raw and old-school production complimentary to their style. The music is catchy and infused with punk attitude. You can tell these guys had fun when they recorded the material. Their music will transport you back to the '80s, which is probably what the band intended, since their palette of influences include bands such as Venom, Mercyful Fate, Motorhead, etc. 

Those with an affinity for balls-to-the-wall metal punk, will no doubt enjoy this, as the music is full of killer riffs and incendiary vocal lines. Those looking for something more sophisticated, however, should stay away, as Sküllfükk SS is a band that embraces simplicity and old-school ethos with a healthy dose of punk injected in their veins. 

The overall output is quite impressive considering that “Uncut Speed” is only their second demo. There's something promising here, so hopefully we'll see another release at some point. If you’re a fan of bands like Bunker 66, Vomitor, Abigail, etc., then definitely check it out! (HT)

EP review: Devouring Void - Septic Fluid Dripping From the Open Wounds of Gaia (2020)

 

Devouring Void - Septic Fluid Dripping From the Open Wounds of Gaia (2020)

Canada

Independent

Canadians, Devouring Void, bring the evil with their debut EP titled, “Septic Fluid Dripping From the Open Wounds of Gaia, ” which offers five tracks of fierce Black Metal that’s a paean to all things cruel and malicious. 

Opener, "Infinite Abyss" inaugurates this disc with spoken samples from cult leader, Jim Jones, which sets the tone for the rest of the record. The music isn’t particularly raw, although the production isn’t overly clean either. Comparisons might be subjective, but they remind me a bit of Katechon from Norway. They also exude a verily cold and desolate atmosphere idiomatic to Canadian Black Metal a la Frozen Shadows and Godless North. 

The output in question is quite impressive considering that it’s the band’s first release and they seem to have a good grasp of the genre, as one is able to pinpoint several references while listening to this release. The music is thoroughly well-executed, with the band delivering a solid arsenal of riffs combined with hard-hitting drums and a vocalist that sounds like the personification of hatred. Black Metal fans rejoice. (HT)

Album review: Mefitis - Offscourings (2021)

 

Mefitis – Offscourings (2021)

USA

Hessian Firm

The second album from Mefitis sees the band expand on their characteristic “Dark Metal” sound and venture into even more experimental territory this time around, all the while maintaining a sense of artistic cohesion. These idiosyncratic elements can be characterized based on their penchant for classical melodies and intricate song structures, whilst also emphasizing melody as its main core. Consequently, the result is more or less a cauldron of various sub-genres merged into one, giving the music a rather experimental dynamic. The agonizing screams of the vocalist compliments the music very well and gives the whole thing a profoundly aggressive edge. The band shows great craftsmanship, particularly in how the riffs interplay with each other. This is music for those with an attention to detail, since the music reveals more and more about itself each time you listen to it. If you enjoyed their debut album, “Emberdawn,” then you will no doubt like their new record, as it offers a collection of well-crafted songs full of detailed textures and an atmosphere that draws you in. Call it dark metal, progressive, avant-garde, or whatever you like – it doesn’t matter – the only thing that matters is that you get this album as soon as possible. (HT)

Interview: The Incursion (2021)

 

Not only do they have a badass logo, but their music slays on all fronts. The following interview was conducted with US Black/Death aggressor, THE INCURSION.

Godhammering hails! Tell us about the formation of The Incursion and what the band is all about musically and lyrically.

The Incursion formed circa 2018 in San Jose CA. Alex and Nick were previously in the group Plague Phalanx, and coordinated with Gabe of Slege/Thangorodrim.

What kind of mental images do you wish to depict with your music?

In general, we tend to aim for imagery that embodies the feeling of impending death or ultimate triumph in battle. Things like the barrage of a Katyusha rocket onslaught, or the raining of artillery come to mind.

Do you feel like The Incursion has its own sound? What sets you apart? Can Black and Death Metal be reinvented or not?

I think The Incursion does execute a short list of elements shared by few others which do set us apart somewhat, but in my experience which I am sure is similar to most, all music is usually and unfortunately described by using other bands as an analogy. So with that in mind I would say our sound and energy is similar to that of Black Witchery or Caveman Cult, however we do get into more dissonant textures you would find more in a Death Metal/Black Metal atmosphere in the vein of Blut Aus Nord. As far as Death Metal/Black Metal being reinvented, I supposed that is subjective to each one’s perception. My short answer would be no, it can’t be reinvented, but we can all do our best effort to add newer and more evil sounding elements to it. What’s the need for all the melodic shit?

Are there any bands that you feel The Incursion share a musical kinship with? If so, who are they?

There are a bunch of bands that we feel a connection to in the form of shared influence and mutual understanding of the music itself. Especially out here on the west of the US we appreciate the shit out of Blood Omen from Santa Cruz, Ritual Genocide from Reno, and Putrid Temple from Seattle. That’s just to name a tiny handful, but those bands are all sick as fuck.

Have you ever had any trouble with rats in the underground who misunderstood your art or who tried to censor you in some form or another?

We have not faced any type of censorship with The Incursion, but we definitely had our fair share of it with our old band Plague Phalanx. People had some misconceptions about the imagery we used, etc., but it definitely hasn’t given us pause or made us not want to make this kind of music anymore.

Shine some background on your discography and what you've released so far. Do you have any merchandise available for maniacs to get hold of?

We released a self titled demo about two years ago, then a single called Trudging Through Artillery which also later featured on another EP called Pandemonium, which included all of our early material that we’d been playing at shows etc. The latest release, available via Nihilistic Noise Propaganda, is called STURMSIEGE. We also have logo shirts, pins, and patches which people can hit us up for on our social media as of now.

How has the reception been for your releases so far? Are you getting much support?

People like our shit as far as the demos and EPs, but we haven’t truly started to promote heavily yet. When we begin work on our full length we’ll make some more noise.

Personally, I've enjoyed everything I've heard from The Incursion. The music hits you like a MGM-51 Shillelagh Missile and destroys everything in its path. How important is the extremity factor in regards to the type of music you play?

The extremity factor in the music is the peak of importance. We mainly try to execute that through speed and choice of notes is extremely important in the string section. Overall our goal is to push ourselves with each album to find different avenues to achieve the same type of feeling but not producing the exact same material over and over.

I understand that some people seem to be under the deluded impression that your drums are programmed. Can you please clarify?

I perform, record and mix the drums, so here’s the deal. I use a Roland TD6 Module and trigger for the kick drum, the rest are acoustic drums, and not very many of them. I use a very small kit. Kick, Snare, Floor Tom, Hi Hat, Crash and Ride. Emphasis is always on the Snare. As far as the mix, I use compression and EQ to enhance and boost the frequencies. At this point there is little to no editing at all, virtually nonexistent except for the kick drum on some parts just to keep things consistent and together in the mix. I push myself very hard to get solid genuine takes when recording. Generally we play between 190-200BPM and 250-260BPM. For the next material I will be utilizing more lo fi and minimal techniques to give us more raw sound then the somewhat polished Death Metal type sound we have produced. 

How many times do you guys get together to rehearse? Do you practice a lot? Also, what are some of the most important aspects for you as far as being a musician? Do you ever look for inspiration outside the confines of metal?

We used to jam every week, but since the plague hit and our jam space got shut down we haven’t been able to. There’s been talk of us all moving in together so we can jam in a living room or something but hasn’t happened yet. So for now it’s all individual practicing to the new material and preparations for the next release.

What are 10 albums you can't live without? 

No particular order:

Black Witchery - Inferno of Sacred Destruction

Black Sabbath - Paranoid

Venom - Black Metal

Gorgoroth - Pentagram

Conqueror - War.Cult.Supremacy

Judas Priest - Sad Wings of Destiny

Diocletian - Doom Cult

Inquisition - Nepharious Dismal Orations

Cannibal Corpse - Vile

Celtic Frost - Morbid Tales

What's some of your favourite releases from 2020?

There’s a bunch of 2020 releases I really fuck with. Just to name a few the Totenwache album Kriegswesen, the Goathex/Goatcorpse (US) split Order of the Plutonium Trident, Hinterkaifeck’s (Australia) demo Kak, and Nirriti’s EP Asuryasparsha all made an impression.

What's your opinion about self-proclaimed metal maniacs who look like disco monkeys? Would you take such a person's opinion about metal seriously?

We don’t really care how people dress. What we don’t like is people who act as if they’ve been listening to this music since day one but don’t have the slightest appreciation or respect for the classic sound and its roots. Fuck that shit. 

Other than metal, are there any other activities that interest you? What about history, the occult, sports, movies, art, serial killers, literature, etc.?

I’m really into ancient and dark ages history, especially pagan Europe around the years 400-800 AD. That was a savage time. Occult practices and ancient religions are a massive interest too. I’m also very into philosophy, which I have a bachelor’s degree in and study on my own time

This bring an end to our interview. Tell us about your plans for The Incursion and when we can expect to hear a full-length. Lastly, do you have a message for your enemies?

We are currently working on more material which will be out in 2021, not sure if it will be an EP, split, or full length album. As far as our enemies, The Incursion is coming for your fucking skulls!

ALBUM REVIEW: Wargrinder - The Seal of Genocide (2012)

 

Wargrinder - The Seal of Genocide (2012)

Greece

Nykta Records

"The Seal of Genocide" is Wargrinder's debut album and offers 13 tracks of hard-hitting Black/Death Metal from lone-musician, Terry Eleftheriou. Released back in 2012, this is some decidedly enjoyable audio violence, with proud nods to Angelcorpse and Black Witchery. Whilst this album arguably does not quite reach the same level of intensity as the aforementioned hordes, it holds a worthy candle in terms of its unapologetic, raw and mayhemic overtones. The songs are refreshingly rhythmic, with the composer proving himself to be as proficient with riffs as he is with percussion. With an emphasis on catchy riffing, merciless percussion and gutteral vocal passages - this aural assault will irrevocably bombard your senses with its martial-esque tones and unbridled relentlessness. Musically, this record is relatively straight-forward and unashamedly militant, so don't expect to hear any mystical forest black metal. I can confidently say that this is pretty impressive stuff for a one-man project, and I was pleasantly surprised to hear the odd solo thrown in for good measure. The solos are well balanced and thoroughly chaotic in nature. There's much to sink your teeth into here. A well recommended listen. (HT)

ALBUM REVIEW: Paganfire - Wreaking Fear and Death (2013)

Paganfire - Wreaking Fear and Death (2013)

The Philippines

Anger of Metal Records / Bestial Invasion

A few dozen demos and splits later, these Quezon City-based maniacs finally release their debut album upon the filthy masses entitled, "Wreaking Fear and Death." The music can be described as Thrash Metal in the vein of early Sodom, Exodus and Sabbat. The Asian element is quite prominent, as some of their song titles and lyrics are in their native tongue. Often a lot of Thrash Metal bands end up sounding sterile and boring due to over-polished production, that's why Paganfire is a breathe of fresh air as they retain a considerably raw tone, yet all the instruments can be heard in the mix. I find the production rather appealing. There's some Black/Death elements lurking in their sound, like the Necrovore-ish riffs on opener, "Bakal sa Bakal, Laman sa Laman" coupled with the general Mayhem-esque (Deathcrush era) buzz-tone of the guitars. Paganfire's sound will certainly find its appeal among the true metal legions and comes recommended to fans of bands (most notably their early works) such as Demolition Hammer, Mayhem, Exodus, Order From Chaos, Sodom, Sepultura, etc. Paganfire is like the drunkin' offspring of the aforementioned bands. This is not sheltered pseudo thrash with songs about the local pizza scene. Nope. This is raw, violent and uncompromising Thrash Metal that will surely send the hippies packing. (HT)

Interview: Angelgoat (2021)

The notorious Black Metal horde ANGELGOAT have been making waves in the underground ever since their inception in 2001. The following interview was conducted with Unholy Carnager - the mastermind behind the cult.

Infernal hails! When you first formed the band, what kind of vision did you have in mind, and has it changed much over the years? What does Black Metal mean to you?

Hails! After the culmination of cognition, the vision of Angelgoat came to physical form in 2001. Since then, the changes were minimal, mostly some things were just upgraded, keeping the main form. I don't see that as something positive if the music or the concept keeps changing. In that case, I would make a new band, and when it's about Angelgoat, fans will always know what to expect: minimalistic, primitive and raw old-school Black Metal, with the sound that permeates from the late '80s / early '90s.

Besides Angelgoat, there were a few more visions, like playing melodic Black Metal, or even a Death/Doom Metal project, but somehow that never manifested, and probably never will...

Can you give us some information about the current line-up? If I'm not mistaken, “U Slavu Satane”(In Glory of Satan) was the last release to feature other members' input?

I always had a high criterion when it's about the individuals for the band. Only Devil worshiping musicians are acceptable and appropriate to share and contribute this vision. Due to the constant deficit of adequate members, I was mostly doing everything by myself. One of the rare, and only people besides me, was Occultum Malleus. The names of the new Devil worshiping musicians of the new line-up will be revealed soon. With the new release, of corpse.

How do you go about playing all the instruments and putting everything together? Is it a difficult process? How long have you been playing each instrument?

It all began in the late '90s, and it might come as a surprise, but my first instrument was a keyboard. Soon after that, I started playing the guitar, bass, and drums. But from the very start, my main focus was on vocals. “Vatropoklonstvo” (Fire Worship) and “Ustoličenje” (Enthronement) are the first songs I ever made. When I compose songs, I do it in a relaxed state, without deadlines and pressure. For my own pleasure, primarily. Playing guitar, writing down the riffs, playing, listening and doing the arrangements, riff by riff, until the song is done. A Guitar Pro is pretty handy thing, for composing and saving the music from oblivion. Many musicians use it...

It's quite obvious that you prefer the real thing when it comes to drums, hence you chose to play them yourself on your last two albums. I must also say that you pull it off rather well, as I enjoy hearing you smash the kit into oblivion on your albums. Is it an instrument you enjoy playing? And What do you think of programmed drums?

Yeah, blastbeats are my thing, haha. Also I prefer the “old blastbeat”, obviously. My main problem has always been the lack of rehearsal place for drums. Which is noticeable on the last 2 albums, although I'm hoping for better circumstances on the next recording... As I've already mentioned, my main occupation & pleasure is screaming, also playing the bass guitar, and for the last few years, destroying the drum kit for sure. Programmed drums can be OK. In my case, I use them in Guitar Pro as midi paths for my tracks, but I always value real drums, even sloppy, instead of programmed drums...

How would you describe the musical progress between each album/release? Are you happy with the results of your latest album, “The Lucifer Within”? What does it represent lyrically and what are some of your favourite tracks? It's actually one of my favourite black metal albums of the year.

The progress between all the albums/releases can be taken from some aspect, but in a way, they are all the same to me. There's a slight difference and progress in production and sound on each release, but generally not much has changed and that was the goal. Every recording won't be the same, different studio, different drum set, etc., but basically it's the Angelgoat sound.

Yeah, I'm generally satisfied with the results. As usual, something remains unfinished, but there's always a next recording. Anyway, there's a special satisfaction and a feeling when it's known that it's finally recorded 10 years after the material is even made for that album. The lyrics even longer... And when it's about the lyrics, the lyric of the “The Lucifer Within” track speaks of something inner, that inner belief, the thing I carry in my inner-self and what is the essence of me. The rest of the lyrics are of similar thematics: Satanism, occultism, Goat worship, anti-christianity, blasphemy, desecration, perversion, death... I I think “The Lucifer Within” track have the strongest riffs, it's a self-titled track for a reason. One of my favorite tracks from the album, as it represents Angelgoat's style in it's best light (darkness). It's the same with the self-titled track from the U Slave Satane” album. “The Night of Ritual Debauchery” has a special vibe and atmosphere. I'm also very pleased with the intro, and aside from the tracks I've already mentioned, the tracks that could also be singled out a bit more are “Supreme Satanic Will” or ”Glory to the Horns”... Some tracks are maybe more dear to me than the others from the album, but all the tracks are very special to me. The track which is a bit different, is the ”Black Goat Semen”, where my brother Nekro of Goat Terrorism made a great contribution to the album with his guest appearance. Cool, I'm really glad to hear that...

 

How do you manage to conjure such an heavy and evil guitar tone?

It was a real revelation when I tried the Metal Zone MT2 for the first time many years ago. That was it and I'm still using it more then 20 years later. The slight difference between the sound on the albums are the different guitars. Ibanez on 1st, Jackson on 2nd, and B.C.Rich on the third album. Some minimal adjustments in mastering and that's it. The sound of Angelgoat that will be heard on all future releases.

Tell us a bit about your vocal approach. Do you practice regularly? What's some of your biggest inspirations?

Only the vocals on “U Slavu Satane” album were recorded after rehearsing it with a full line-up. And that recording session was basically just me screaming for about half an hour... All the things are done in a sort of “punkish” style, on “1,2,3 and record”. All other recording sessions are done the same way, but just without the rehearsing. Similar with recording the instruments... Which is not OK, for sure, but that's the way it was. My vocals reached maximum before I even started recording anything. But, I was forcing it and I've destroy it years before the first recording. No particular influence nor inspiration...

Tell us something about where you grew up and what the metal scene was like in your area.

Vrbas is a small town, former industrial center, about 25000 people, really nothing special. And the metal scene was always pretty weak. Besides Angelgoat, there was one more Black/Death/Trash Metal band, but just for a short period existed, with the one rehearsal demo. There was one good Trash/Speed Metal band called Toxic Trace, split up some time ago, and now there's just one more active similar genre band called Haste...

Has the NATO bombing of Serbia had any impact on the nature of your music or influenced you as a person?

No, no, I would never use the lyrics of such nature. There's no place for politics in music, by my opinion, but even generally I do not remember that there were some Metal bands with such lyrical thematic. Although some non-metal bands, yes. In general, people in Serbia are embittered cause such act, bombing and destroying, and the certain hate to USA definitely exists. I'm not indifferent on such idiotic behaviour, but it had no influence on me...

Musically, what are some of your biggest influences? Are you influenced by any Serbian bands?

A big influence is Beherit, of corpse. The band I respect the most. There are more bands that had an influence on me, bands like Mayhem, Darkthrone or Marduk (some certain periods/albums only) but I never wanted to have any sound influence by any band under my work. Maybe Angelgoat have a similar sound to some of the aforementioned bands, but there was never such an intention, just simply creating the music I worship. No influence by the band, only by the Devil, hah!

When it's about the Serbian scene and bands... Maybe I could mention Heller, Serbian Speed/Trash Metal band from the 80s. Often I use one comparison when I speak of Heller – What's Sodom for Germany, that's Heller for Serbia.

I have noticed a trend among the online community of metalhead sheep to hate on certain cult bands with the intention of impressing their peers. It's contradictory in how some of these people can apparently listen to bands that were influenced by the bands they bash. It makes no sense at all. Your thoughts?

Like you said it well – a sheep, as everywhere else, there's always some smart guy, spoiling and trolling. Not even worth the attention, but let's say few words about them, when we are already speak of them. I guess it's a wrong way to elevate themselves in society, so they strive for trolling. A lot of cult bands that are literally the firms today, and all they do, they do for the money. It's a business now, and it's not the same bands from the beginning. Without the same passion, feeling, the essence,... nothing is the same. Anyway, it's a reason for someone to take the opportunity and express his “opinion”. Whatever that opinion may be. But again, such persons should not be given attention.

Tell us a little a bit about how you perceive Satanism. Do you believe in Satan as an actual deity or is it more of a personal symbol that reflects your darker side? Do you approach it as a religion? What brought you to this path?

After many years of practice of Satanism, in many forms, the Occultism in general, exploring, discovering and learning, the certain attitudes about this matter are built. I believe in Satan, with those personal views of mine, but this is a topic which I don't tell much about.

As concern of religion... Satanism can be considered as sort of religion, of corpse, but definitely not as one of the religions today. Generally it's all based on smaller cults, or an individual practitioner which is often the case... My case, for instance.

“Strange are the ways of the god” some says, but even stranger are the ways of Lord Satan who brought me to this path...

 

What are 10 albums you can't live without?

I'll mention some of my favourite albums and releases in general. Beherit – “Drowning Down the Moon”, “Dawn of Satan's Millennium” EP, Archgoat - “Whore of Bethlehem”, although I worship more the earlier works, more dirtier, like the “Jesus Spawn” demo, or “Angelcunt” EP, or unreleased EP “Hymns To Darkness”. But the sound on “Whore of Bethlehem” is just awesome. Bestial Raids - “Prime Evil Damnation”, but all releases are really great, a great band. Beastcraft - “Into the Burning Pit of Hell”, the sound is amazing, but I also worship 2 previous demos maybe even more. Mayhem – “Deathcrush” demo, earlier works, also live albums like “Live in Leipzig” or “Mediolanum Capta Est” remained into remembrance. Darkthrone – “Under a Funeral Moon”, but I was into later albums quite much, like “Ravishing Grimness” or “Sardonic Wrath”, and I've stopped listening the band after that album... Marduk - “Those of the Unlight”, special feeling when this album is about, although I prefer more period with Legion. Astaroth - “Sklavengott”, but also the EP “Christenfeind”. Heller – “Heller”, the best Serbian Speed/Trash Metal album ever, and as the last, an album that left a special impression on me, and that is “Some Wounds Bleed Forever” from the Stone to Flesh. Demos are recommended as well...

What is your stance towards social media? Many people seem to take full advantage of these platforms to promote their bands to the fullest and some become overnight rockstars. I have noticed though that you mostly prefer to stay out of the spotlight, which is respectable.

I find myself communicative and I like to chat and hang out, I'm active on some Metal forums, but when it's about social media like Facebook or similar, I would rather use my time better. When it's about the band, it's enough to have one official web presentation (a must have today), which will also be as prevention of the circulation of disinformation and all kind of crap on the internet. Who wants to find me or Angelgoat on the internet, he will find.

If I recall correctly, you attained a serious injury some years ago (I think you fell or something). Could you please specify exactly what happened and how long it took you to recover?

Yes, it was almost 11 years ago by now, and some consequences are still present, which causes health problems for me from time to time. It was about 98% recovery, but still, it was a fall from 10 meters height. Not much to tell, too much beer and shitty luck. Big price I had to pay, took me quite some time to recover and return to normal life. But that's the past now. The worship of the Angelgoat continues.

I appreciate the black and white covers of your albums, and I'm glad you didn't opt for colourful artworks like so many modern black metal bands seem to do. How important is the visual aspect and why do prefer the more simplistic approach?

The simplistic approach to the covers is a logical and natural choice for this kind of music. (And also by my taste, of corpse.) The minimalism is something that permeates my life and is something that can be heard in the music I make. My approach to composing riffs is straight-forward. It's the same with the covers, simple essence and that's it. The visual aspect is also very important and definitely it should be some ultimate photo/image for the cover. The album cover should speak for the release.

 

Your thoughts on the following:

Monotheism - Belief in one god, but from different points of view. Many names, but basically it's the same. From the christian side or from the other, Satanic side. Fuck god - hail Satan!

US Politics - US politics are some of the most idiotic for sure. Like most politics, of course, but these idiots are definitely the worst. Waste of time and words on this topic...

Anton LaVey - Anton LaVay was smart (Aquarius ascendant) and with the energy of Ram, he was achieving his goals. But many Satanists don't see his philosophy/religion as Satanism. Neither I had a positive opinion about him and his work, and also don't find it as Satanism, but after studying a bit deeper, he had a few valid points in regards to other things. There's a certain respect, but there's a lot of other minds I would rather study.

Nergal/Behemoth - Ok, few words and opinion about Nergal of Behemoth. As a Gemini, I see him as person variable nature and a versatile person. Great guitarist, very smart, with some his views I agree, with some I’m not... I respect him cause his Crowleyanity...

What are some of your favorite albums from the last 10 years? Do you have any favorites from 2020 so far?

Some titles really worth mentioning, that I can think of right now... Perverted Ceremony - “Sabbat of Behezaël”, Doombringer - “The Grand Sabbath”, but demos and EP are also definitely worth checking out, 13th Moon - “Abhorrence of Light”, with 2 previous demos...

From 2020., "Death Clan OD" from Serpent Noir, in which I've enjoyed pretty much.

As I understand it, you recently moved to Belgrade. So far, how's experience with the metal scene and people there? Is it a nice city to live in? Are there any like-minded manijaks with a penchant for Satan and morbid Black/Death?

Yeah, the relocation was necessary to improved the functioning of the band and a greater worship of the Goat! Serbia is a small country, and sadly only 2-3 towns actually lives. No life in small towns. For about 20 years I was visiting the Belgrade, gigs and friends, and I already had some contacts there, the adequate individuals and option now to gather the horde for Angelgoat, so that was the best solution. Also when it's about the question of job – more options. But every start is hard, so maybe next release will took some time, but expect it for sure 666%!

I could keep going, but I'll stop here for the sake of everyone's well being :) Few people have the patience to read a 60 question interview. Can you imagine that? Well, I hope you had a good time with these questions. Tell us about your future plans and where all the maniacs can get hold of your merchandise and music. Slava Angelgoat!

Hahah, you are definitely right there, no one likes the long interviews... Except the few maniacs as you say. Yeah, it was a cool and really nice chat with you, and thanks for the great support. Keep checking the updates on official website, some great news coming up soon! Slava Satan! Slava Angelgoat!