Adramelech from Inferno: "Each album is like a ritual, a journey"
Paradeigma (Phosphenes Of Aphotic Eternity) - album 2021 - delves into complex themes. How do these ideas manifest in the music and lyrics, and what philosophies or experiences inspired them?
Hello! Please accept my greetings, and thank you for your thoughtful questions.
When it comes to music and its influences, we always start with certain visions and conceptual directions. We have an early idea of how we want to sound and what our music should reflect. However, the creative process is dynamic – it continuously evolves and opens up new possibilities. The soundscapes we create with our instruments are similar to how a painter works partly with colors on a canvas. These soundscapes must primarily resonate with emotions and sensory impressions, with artistic vibrations that speak to us. In the initial stages of creation, reason or technical considerations often take a back seat.
As for inspiration, after completing Gnosis Kardias, we knew that The Red Book would influence our next work. The term "heart of knowledge" was inspired by Seven Sermons to the Dead by Stephan Hoeller. Our goal was not to "borrow wisdom" from this book, but to approach the creation of the album as our own Red Book an introspective journey into the depths of consciousness and exploration of its darker aspects.
In the sketches of the Paradeigma concept, we focused on the phenomenon of time from different perspectives. Lee Smolin was one of the authors we planned to draw inspiration from. Then, the heavens opened, and the book The Cosmos as Self-Creation by Ajvaz appeared. The title immediately caught our attention, and the book turned out to be an exceptional source of inspiration.
The decision to include Smolin also came through synchronicity. While finishing the conclusion of his book Time Reborn, there was a strong urge to open The Red Book. The main attention was drawn to the note about Abraxas: "Time made me a god, therefore I am the God of time." At that moment, it became clear what role time should play in our universe. This role, although it contradicts Jung's concept of time and differs from Smolin's theories, perfectly aligned with our vision.
Black metal is often described as a genre tied to rebellion and existential reflection. What does rebellion mean to you?
For me, rebellion has always represented an act of resistance, defiance, or rejection of authority. In my youth, especially during my adolescence, rebellion was a significant part of my life. At first, it was directed against authority figures like parents or teachers, as well as against established rules and norms that I found restrictive and unjust. This inner struggle wasn’t unique it was similar to what many young people of my generation experienced.
The strongest sense of rebellion came during the 1990s when black metal reigned supreme in the music scene. At that time, I saw rebellion not only as a personal stance but also as a generational one. It was a revolt against the mainstream, against superficiality and hypocrisy, and even against the so-called “false” bands within the metal scene itself. Music was my voice, my way of expressing dissent against what I perceived as inauthentic. It was a time of intense passion and uncompromising pursuit of authenticity.
As time went on, however, this stormy energy began to fade. Today, as I approach my 50s, I see life through a different lens. I navigate calmer waters, striving to find the positives and seek the light in everything around me. Instead of resistance, there’s now reconciliation and an understanding that the world isn’t black and white.
Rebellion always has two sides of the coin. On one side, it can be positive, leading to growth, change, and the improvement of conditions both for individuals and for society. On the other hand, it can be destructive if it lacks a goal or purpose. Such rebellion can result in chaos or inner emptiness. Now I understand that true strength lies not in constant defiance but in finding balance between struggle and acceptance, between darkness and light.
The evolution of Inferno is a natural path for us, stemming from a deeper exploration not just musical, but also philosophical and spiritual. From an esoteric perspective, we see creation as an exploration of the unseen landscapes of the mind, the subconscious, and universal energy. Each album is like a ritual, a journey that compels us to push boundaries not only of the genre but of ourselves as creators and spiritual beings.
When deciding which boundaries to push, we primarily listen to our intuition. Inspiration often comes from areas outside of music philosophy, literature, mysticism, or personal experiences with inner states. Our goal isn’t to adhere strictly to the rules of the genre but to use the genre as a tool to express something deeper. For us, black metal is not just a musical style; it is a medium that allows us to convey transcendental experiences and evoke a particular energy, both in the listener and within ourselves.
The line between innovation and preserving the essence of the genre is fluid and ever-changing. We perceive the essence of the genre not as specific sounds, tempos, or production techniques but as emotions, atmosphere, and spiritual intensity. As long as that essence remains intact, we feel free to innovate almost endlessly. The key is authenticity any change or experiment must stem from a genuine need for expression, not simply a desire to be different or modern.
Our music evolves in parallel with our spiritual growth. Every step forward is a result not only of technical work but also of inner searching. This is what allows us to push boundaries while remaining true to the core of what Inferno represents.
How do you translate abstract ideas into sound? What does your creative process look like?
This question would probably be best answered by Ska Gull as the guitarist, but since he tends to avoid interviews, I will try to explain it myself. A significant role in our composing process is played by improvisation and the search for the right atmosphere. In the initial stages of creation, we experiment with sounds, textures, and harmonies to find the right tone that matches the mood or idea we want to express musically.
We often draw inspiration from visual images, words, or symbols, which serve as triggers for our ideas. For example, the concept of emptiness, the cosmos, or an archetypal conflict can be the foundation of a track. We look for ways to translate these abstract concepts into sound, whether through layering textures, dramatic contrasts, or specific harmonic progressions.
Once we have a basic concept, we begin layering elements combining different textures, adding details, and carefully working with dynamics. At this stage, the studio becomes our workshop, where instruments and sounds serve as the material for creation. We experiment with various combinations until we achieve a form that is not only musically convincing but also emotionally and conceptually strong.
At the same time, we are conscious of the importance of space and simplicity. It’s essential to know when to stop, to let the composition "breathe" and create room for silence. We don’t want our music to be just a complex tangle of sounds that overwhelms the listener. On the contrary, we strive to create something that feels like a story with a clear narrative thread that guides the listener, while also leaving room for their personal interpretation.
The creative process for us is not only an artistic endeavor but also a spiritual journey. Sound is not merely a physical phenomenon; it is a medium through which we communicate with something higher whether it’s a deeper layer of our own consciousness, archetypal energies, or something unnamed and universal.
Every note, every harmony, every track should resonate not only with the listener’s ears but also with their mind and soul. For us, it’s crucial that our music has the power to convey abstract ideas to the listener, to awaken introspection, and to open the doors to exploring their own inner world.
Do you see your work as a form of ritual or spiritual practice?
The band and music are, above all, my great passion, and I partially perceive my role within it as a ritual journey toward self-discovery and the exploration of new dimensions of being. It is a kind of escape into tranquil waters away from the concerns of everyday life. Each step, each task, feels like a symbolic key unlocking doors to deeper levels of my inner self. Through this journey, I not only develop my abilities but also harmonize my inner energy and discover new opportunities for growth and stoic serenity. It is a process that connects me to my higher purpose and strengthens my inner power.
Does the history or mythology of your homeland influence Inferno’s themes or atmosphere?
Hmmm..the history and mythology of our homeland influence the themes and atmosphere of Inferno only partially, as our work is deeply intertwined with an esoteric and metaphysical approach that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. While historical and mythological elements may serve as inspiration or symbolic tools, our current focus is on specific thematic areas that are explored in greater depth and complexity. These themes often reflect universal principles, archetypes, or spiritual concepts that resonate across time and space. In this sense, we see our music as a platform for exploring the spiritual and philosophical essence of existence, rather than as a purely historical or regional reflection.
Outside of Inferno, what artistic or personal pursuits influence your creativity? Do they ever find their way into your music?
In Inferno, we perceive inspiration holistically, finding it in everything around us it only requires open eyes and a keen sense of observation. True creativity lies in the ability to uncover fascinating elements even in the seemingly ordinary. However, our primary focus is directed toward achieving a profound symbiosis within the music itself. We strive to reflect and create an atmosphere that merges ominous guitar melodies with dissonant, fragmented rhythms, forming a truly menacing musical expression. This interplay and its refinement lie at the core of our creative process and represent an area that deeply resonates with us.
Many artists face moments of doubt or creative block. What strategies do you use to overcome these struggles and remain focused on your artistic vision?
Creative doubts and blocks are a natural part of every artist's journey, a reflection of the depth of the process of self-discovery. In these moments, we often return to the very core of creation to a kind of inner silence or a dialogue with oneself. The key is to embrace these states as spaces for growth, not weakness. Inspiration is drawn primarily from our experiences or personal explorations into other realms of space and time.
I remind myself that art is not just about the outcome but about the journey, the ability to be present in the process. We create even when the tones seem silent, for in that silence, new visions are born, as well as in the randomness of even shallow improvisation.
The deepest strategy, however, is trust. Trust that art is not only within us but that something greater speaks through us. This faith and surrender to the process help us remain true to our artistic vision, even when it is not clearly visible
What do you hope people take away from the experience of engaging with your work?
Each listener can take from our music exactly what they need at that moment. Music is like a key it unlocks inner spaces but never dictates what should be discovered. As artists, we do not create dogmatic messages but rather offer cues, directions where listeners might look, while the final perception and interpretation remain entirely their own.
Music operates on the principle of open semantic structures that transform depending on individual experiences, emotions, and the listener's sensitivity. Both compositionally and interpretatively, we strive to create a space where silence and sound, harmony and dissonance, work together as elements guiding introspection.
I believe music should not serve as a didactic tool but rather as a mirror, allowing people to explore their own stories, questions, and answers. In this sense, we are not guides but co-creators of the moment of encounter between sound, tones, and the listener, where the final understanding is deeply personal and ever-changing.
Do you see a connection between the philosophical depth of Inferno’s lyrics and the current state of the world? Are there aspects of modern society that resonate with or contradict your vision?
The lyrics of Inferno may carry a certain philosophical depth listeners have expressed this but I don't entirely perceive them that way myself. You know…
Modern society exists in a kind of paradox: on one hand, technological progress and globalization promise connection and access to knowledge; on the other hand, alienation, superficial communication, and the loss of spiritual identity continue to grow. This tension resonates with themes from Inferno, particularly blindness to truth and the consequences of moral and spiritual decay.
What differs, however, is the intensity of external influences on individual consciousness. I prefer to accept the fact that, in my writing, I am always searching for a path to introspection through symbolic journeys. The modern world often overwhelms the mind with information, simply obstructing deeper reflection.
I believe that contemporary art and lyrics should draw from a certain philosophical depth if you will and offer not just criticism but also the possibility of spiritual reflection, a space where the listener can question meaning, responsibility, and personal transformation. Music and words can thus be not merely aesthetic experiences but also tools for awakening authentic awareness.
This might seem far from the themes of black metal, but I deeply admire the lyrics and poetry of Karel Kryl. If you knew his life and his writing, as well as the way they intertwine, you would probably understand this perspective more clearly. His authenticity is staggering, a quality that transcends time and can resonate with any era.
A live performance can be transcendent and visceral. What is your philosophy on performing live, and how do you translate Inferno’s intricate sound into that setting?
We perceive live performances as unique ritual moments where sound becomes a medium for deeper sensory and emotional experiences. We do not wish to be a band that plays thoughtlessly anywhere. Each concert should have its justification, artistic depth, and significance that resonates not only musically but also internally with the audience.
Our music is complex and multilayered, so translating it into a live setting requires a meticulous approach. We use samples, field recordings, and various background sounds to expand the sonic landscapes and create an atmosphere where all senses converge into a unified experience. Sound thus becomes more than just a musical element it serves as a tool to evoke a sense of space and transcendence.
Whenever the venue allows, we aim to enhance the visual dimension with projections, further deepening the atmosphere and stimulating the imagination. The visual and auditory elements intertwine, forming a cohesive audiovisual experience.
The philosophy behind our performances is wholeness. Music, visuals, and the surrounding space must work together, forming a unified organism that not only engages the audience but also transports them beyond ordinary reality into a realm where sound becomes a bridge to introspection and spiritual experience.
How do you determine when a song, or the album as a whole, is complete and ready for release?
Determining when a track or an album as a whole is complete arises from a profound internal dialogue between the structure of the composition and the sonic essence of the work. Our primary criterion is reaching a point where the musical aspect fully embodies our vision where the compositions themselves engage and inspire us on both an instrumental and structural level, containing all the elements we consider essential for expressing the intended message.
Only when this phase achieves a sense of inner coherence do we shift our focus more deeply toward the sound aesthetic. However, the sonic character is inherently present from the earliest stages of creation, as it forms an inseparable part of our compositional process. In the later stages, the sonic dimension is further refined to ensure it resonates with the musical content, amplifying the emotional depth of the work.
We do not subscribe to the notion that sound must adhere to rigid technical standards or norms. For us, sound exists primarily as a tool to serve and enhance the expressive qualities, dynamics, and atmosphere of the music. It should never feel self-serving but instead work organically to support the narrative and energy of the composition. Only when we feel that both the sound and the musical structure speak together in a harmonious and authentic dialogue do we consider the work complete and ready for release.
Are there any unconventional techniques, instruments, or inspirations you’d like to explore in future works?
In our creative process, we continuously explore various unconventional techniques and approaches, particularly for our upcoming 2025 album, as the discovery of new sonic possibilities is an essential part of our artistic journey. We focus on experimental methods such as layering sounds, reverse playback, manipulating recordings, and creating sonic textures that are not based on traditional melodies, but rather on the concept of sound itself. We strive to connect individual sound fragments into systematic structures that form complex soundscapes rather than formally defined compositions.
For us, the guitar is not an instrument used to create conventional melodies, though we do occasionally use it as a leading line. Instead, we use it to evoke a broader spectrum of sounds, often in contrast to typical harmonic and rhythmic patterns. We create dynamic textures where sound is not just a part of the musical structure, but its carrier, allowing the listener to explore new dimensions of perception and interpretation.
This approach to music-making leads us to create soundscape compositions, where each sound, whether it’s a natural tone, electronic noise, or random hum, has its specific role within a larger, organic structure. Our goals are therefore not limited to searching for traditional musical forms, but rather to creating an environment where sound not only tells a story but also evokes emotional and mental resonance.
INFERNO
https://pureinferno.bandcamp.com/album/paradeigma-phosphenes-of-aphotic-eternity
https://www.facebook.com/InfernoCZBM
https://www.instagram.com/infernoczbm
PHOTOS
NecrosHorns: https://www.facebook.com/necroshorns
PTNZ-Photography: https://www.facebook.com/FabianPtnz