After diving into Antikosmos in our review, it felt natural to go further and give the floor to those who created it. Abadir is not just a musical project: it is a vision, an almost ritualistic approach where every element – from sound to imagery – contributes to the same breath. To better grasp this quest and the universe behind the album, we spoke with the duo.
Can you tell us how everything started for Abadir and what motivated you to shape this universe?
I started this project in 2024 out of a desire to vent my artistic streak and give black metal what it gives me back.
Your latest album “ANTIKOSMOS” has just been released. What emotions or main ideas did you want to convey through this album?
Through this album we want to underline our passion towards pagan religion and contempt towards this stupid and sick society. Antikosmos is not an “anti-life-depressing-dsbm-manifesto” — it is more like an incipit to wake up and rediscover our origins, our spirituality.
The track “Thymos” seems significant to you. Can you explain its meaning and why you chose to highlight it for the podcast?
Thymos is our favorite song, which is why we chose to put it on your radio. It tells of how modern man has lost some fundamental natural values: honor, respect through nature and ourselves.
Thymos is an ancient Greek word meaning “emotional soul.”
Your album Antikosmos delves into paganism. What draws you to this realm, and how do you translate it into music?
We are attracted to the myths and stories of this splendid religion of paganism, which we transform into music through our atmospheres and our lyrics.
As a band with Askios handling instruments and Δ on vocals, mix, and mastering, how does your creative process work as a duo?
The songs are all written by me (Askios), while as far as the themes are concerned we always discuss them together. After the recordings by Askios everything is mixed and done DIY — no fancy stuff.
How was your collaboration with Unholy Dungeon Tapes for the release of Antikosmos?
Our collaboration with Unholy Dungeon is absolutely very positive, given the support and excellent service it offers us.
For your upcoming releases, can you give us a glimpse of what your fans can expect?
I’ve currently finished writing the new album and drum recordings will begin in late September… No spoilers… Stay tuned.
As a duo handling multiple aspects of music and illustrations, what key influences have shaped your musical and visual style?
Our main influences come from the Italian black metal scene of the 90s and the Finnish/Norwegian scene. Our main inspirations are Taake, Goatmoon, and Spite Extreme Wing.
Can you talk about the tools and equipment you use to compose and record your music?
The instrumentation I used to compose and record Antikosmos consisted of a Jackson JS22 guitar and an Ibanez bass, while for the drums I relied on a Pearl kit. For the vocals, Δ uses a simple cardioid microphone. We recorded everything at home except for the drums, which were recorded in a studio in Lecco.
How would you like your listeners to experience or interpret your albums and your musical universe?
We do not intend to tell our listeners how to experience our music, but despite all the songs having profound meaning, some may dive into the historical and mythological layers, others may simply listen to the intensity of the sound. (And that’s awesome too!) What matters to us is that our devotion to black metal, and the spirit behind it, can be felt in every note. The final interpretation belongs entirely to the listener.
What is your perspective on the current black metal scene, both in Italy and internationally?
We believe the black metal scene is more vibrant than ever, with numerous interesting bands that truly deserve to be heard. We are incredibly proud to be a part of it. Bands like Qoèlet, Black Raptus, Morcolac, and Tanun, along with all the acts in the Insubrian Black Metal Community, are among those who are keeping the scene authentic and strong.
Finally, what does the current Italian black metal scene mean to you, and how do you see your place within it?
The Italian black metal scene is incredibly significant to us. It’s a community that has shown us a lot of support, and we’re grateful to be a part of it. We take immense pride in our role within this scene and hope to grow our presence even further in the future.
Is there anything you would like to share with us or your fans that hasn’t been covered in this interview yet?
Yes! We will ship the tapes soon and we are planning to finally make the t-shirts! You can preorder them at Unholy Dungeon’s Bandcamp. If you order a copy of the cassette, you’ll get a small poster inside with all the lyrics.
We thank the Obscurium webzine very much for this great interview and for the review.
Hail Abadir, Hail The Cult.
Antikosmos is available on cassette via Unholy Dungeon Tapes, along with merchandising (t-shirt). Follow Abadir on their social media to stay updated on future releases and dive into their dark universe now
- Bandcamp Abadir: Abadir
- Bandcamp Label: Unholy Dungeon Tapes
- Instagram: Abadir
