Interview Vihilija

In this interview, we delve into Vihilija's creative process, exploring the inspiration behind their latest single "Kazka" and its place within their upcoming album "Amor Fati".

1. Congratulations on the release of your latest single "Kazka"! Can you share the inspiration behind this track and its significance within your upcoming album "Amor Fati"?
Thank you! "Kazka" explores childhood fears that linger into adulthood, shaping our psyche. As part of "Amor Fati", it fits into the album's theme of embracing fate's twists and turns. We are a quartet: Mitya on bass, Max on drums, Bogdan on vocals, and Andrew on guitar. We use minimal instruments to create a rich, immersive sound.
2. Vihilija has been described as a blend of post-black metal, shoegaze, and post-metal. How do you approach combining these diverse influences into your sound, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?
We draw inspiration from Alcest, Heretoir (post-black metal), Cult of Luna, Amenra (post-metal), and Boris, Deftones (shoegaze). Our approach blends these elements into a cohesive sound, aiming to take listeners on an emotional journey through intense and atmospheric music.
3. Your lyrics are written in the Belarusian language, which adds a unique cultural depth to your music. How does using your native language influence the themes and emotions conveyed in your songs?
Using Belarusian allows us to connect deeply with our heritage, adding authenticity and emotional depth to our music. While we may experiment with English lyrics in the future, for now, we focus on Belarusian to convey our themes and emotions more powerfully.
4. "Kazka" explores the theme of childhood fears lingering into adulthood. Could you delve deeper into the lyrical content of the song and how it reflects this theme?
"Kazka" lyrically delves into how childhood fears evolve and haunt us as adults. The song reflects on facing these fears and understanding their impact on our lives, capturing the dark and introspective nature of these lingering shadows.

5. The band's name, Vihilija, is intriguing. What is the story or meaning behind it, and how does it relate to your music and identity as a band?
"Vihilija" originates from the Roman term "tertia vigilia," meaning the night watch during the darkest part of the night. This name reflects our music's introspective and contemplative nature, focusing on the deeper, darker aspects of the human experience.
6. Your debut EP "Ludalut" received positive feedback. How has your sound evolved since then, and what can fans expect from your upcoming full-length debut album "Amor Fati"?
Since "Ludalut", we've incorporated more shoegaze elements into our sound. Fans can expect "Amor Fati" to feature a richer, more immersive experience. For our next album, we plan to integrate more post-metal influences.
7. As a relatively new band formed in late 2023, what challenges have you faced in establishing yourselves in the post-black metal scene, and how have you overcome them?
We're still at the start line, growing our fanbase. Utilizing platforms like TikTok and vertical videos has helped us reach more listeners. Establishing ourselves in the scene remains a work in progress, but we're making strides.
8. Each member brings unique musical backgrounds and influences to Vihilija. How do you navigate these differences to create a cohesive sound, and what role does collaboration play in your songwriting process?
As professional musicians with diverse backgrounds, we start with random riffs from Andrew. I (Mitya) then add harmony, structure, and arrangement. Max works on the drum lines, and we rehearse together to finalize the composition and write the vocal lines. This collaborative process ensures our songs are deeply thought out and cohesive.
9. "Kazka" is described as a sonic exploration of the lingering shadows that shape our psyche. How do you approach creating atmospheres and moods in your music, and what techniques do you employ to evoke these emotions?
We focus on harmonies and musical movements, ensuring they are executed sincerely and effectively. By paying close attention to these elements, we create the right atmospheres and moods, evoking deep emotions in our listeners.

10. Your social media presence spans platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. How important is it for Vihilija to engage with fans through these channels, and what do you enjoy most about interacting with your audience online?
Engaging with fans through social media is crucial for us. Vertical videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are currently the most effective way to grow our audience. We utilize these opportunities to reach new listeners and share our music. What we enjoy most about interacting with our audience online is the immediate feedback and the sense of community that develops. It’s rewarding to see how our music resonates with people and to connect with fans on a personal level.
11. Belarusian metal scene has been gaining recognition in recent years. How do you perceive the current state of the metal scene in Belarus, and what role do you see Vihilija playing in its growth and development?
Due to the political situation, the metal scene in Belarus has faced significant challenges and was pretty low for a while. Now, we are working to grow it back. We see Vihilija as a part of this resurgence, contributing to the revitalization of the scene by bringing fresh energy and new music. We hope to inspire other bands and fans to support and develop the local metal community.
12. "Amor Fati" is a concept that explores embracing the inevitable twists and turns of fate. How does this concept resonate with the themes explored in your music, and what personal significance does it hold for the band?
The concept of "Amor Fati" is about embracing all aspects of life—both good and bad—and transforming them into valuable experiences. When you listen to our tracks, some of them resonate with your own experiences, enhancing emotional effects and perhaps even fears. Through our music, you release emotional tension, and the album title gives a key to further acceptance of life's events.
Accepting fate doesn't mean you can't strive to change or improve your situation. Rather, "Amor Fati" should be viewed in light of Nietzsche's idea of "eternal recurrence": feeling content with life and accepting it in such a way that you would joyfully live it over and over again, in all its details, for eternity. This acceptance aligns perfectly with our band's name in Latin, and naming the album in Latin ties back to the original Belarusian Latin script.

13. What are your plans for touring and live performances following the release of "Amor Fati"? Any particular cities or venues you're excited to play?
We are planning to tour Belarus first, then move on to Poland and Lithuania. After that, we aim to expand further to the west. We're particularly excited about playing in cities where we have a growing fanbase and connecting with new listeners in different countries. Each venue offers a unique experience, and we look forward to bringing our music to diverse audiences.
14. What message or feeling do you hope listeners experience when they immerse themselves in the music of Vihilija, and what legacy do you aspire to leave through your artistry?
We hope listeners embrace the message of being true to themselves, continuously evolving, and never giving up, no matter what challenges they face. Our music encourages people to live their lives fully and enjoy every moment. Through our artistry, we aspire to leave a legacy of resilience, emotional depth, and a profound connection with our audience, inspiring them to find strength and meaning in their own experiences.

Vihilija Official | VK

Vihilija (@vihilija_official) • Photos et vidéos Instagram

Musique | Vihilija (bandcamp.com)