Exclusive Interview: ABYSSLOOKER Unravels 'Eternal' - An Odyssey into Post-Metal's Heart of Darkness

In the shadowy realms of post-metal and black metal, ABYSSLOOKER emerges with their latest single “Eternal,” marking a profound exploration of somber and sublime themes. Released on February 23, 2024, this piece signifies a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution, showcasing their dedication to the darker spectrums of metal music. The collaboration with Vladimir Lehtinen, a figure known for his work with heavyweights like SOILWORK and SECOND TO SUN, imbues “Eternal” with a depth and quality that promise to elevate ABYSSLOOKER‘s growing discography. This partnership, rooted in a shared artistic vision, exemplifies the band’s commitment to crafting music that not only resonates with their unique sound but also with the personal touch that Vladimir brings to the mixing table.

The creative process behind “Eternal” reflects ABYSSLOOKER‘s approach to music as an immersive experience, aiming to evoke a broad spectrum of emotions rather than tell a specific story. This track, steeped in the atmospheric and introspective elements characteristic of black metal, invites listeners to delve into their own thoughts and feelings, offering a unique personal encounter with each listening. As the band explores the balance between despair and hopelessness inherent in the genre, they also hint at the darker explorations to come in their upcoming album. This single serves as a harbinger of ABYSSLOOKER‘s continued journey into the existential themes that define their music, promising a deeper dive into the void that awaits.

Dive into the dark and immersive world of ABYSSLOOKER‘s “Eternal” with us in a captivating conversation with the band. Uncover the behind-the-scenes stories and inspirations that fueled this profound post-metal and black metal masterpiece, providing a rare insight into their creative evolution.

INFRARED MAG: Abysslooker, thank you for joining us for this interview. Can you share the story behind the formation of ‘Eternal Returns’ and how the band’s journey began?

ABYSSLOOKER: After the disbanding of “Shadar Logoth” black metal band from Togliatti, its leader Aleksei “Demoria” Leontev moved to Samara and began to look for musicians to implement new ideas. So, in 2017 a new band was formed in Samara, Russia. For exact moment Abysslooker band are Aleksei Leontev, Alexey Medov, Petr Panov and Andrew Lubchich.

INFRARED MAG: Can you share the inspiration behind the name “Abysslooker” and how it reflects the band’s musical style and ethos?

ABYSSLOOKER: Abysslooker is a reference to the Nietzsche quote, “Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you.” It literally reflects the idea of the band’s music: unbearable drowning in the dark, trying to keep the last remains of light in human being.

INFRARED MAG: Your latest single, “Eternal,” released on February 23, 2024, delves into post-metal and black metal realms, offering listeners a deep and introspective experience. What motivated you to explore these genres, and how do they influence your creative process?

ABYSSLOOKER: Being deeply personal, these genres convey our message best of all.

INFRARED MAG: “Eternal” has been mixed by Vladimir Lehtinen, known for his work with bands like SOILWORK and SECOND TO SUN. How did this collaboration come about, and what was it like working with Vladimir on this single?

ABYSSLOOKER: This is not our first work with Vladimir, and we collaborate with him not only because of his extensive experience in creating and mixing heavy music, but also because of his personal contribution, which fits well with our vision of how our music should sound. It was productive.

INFRARED MAG: Your music has been previously praised by global music bloggers and featured in outlets like Metalive and No Clean Singing. How does this recognition impact your approach to creating and releasing new music?

ABYSSLOOKER: Any attention to our music helps us to promote it, many thanks to you guys for your support of our releases!

INFRARED MAG: Can you walk us through the creative process behind “Eternal”? How do you approach composing and arranging your music as a band?

ABYSSLOOKER: At first, Aleksei makes a draft of the composition, and then we make up a final arrangement of the track. After music part is done, Aleksei writes lyrics for the song.

INFRARED MAG: As a band from Russia, how do you perceive the metal scene in your country, and what unique elements do you think Russian metal bands bring to the global metal community?

ABYSSLOOKER: The Russian heavy scene is developing. On the one hand, Russia doesn’t have a strong metal music legacy. On the other hand, we have deep roots in Russian classical and folk music. We think this influences Russian metal music the most.

INFRARED MAG: Your music blends elements of post-metal and black metal, creating a sound that is both atmospheric and intense. How do you balance these contrasting elements in your music?

ABYSSLOOKER: Despite the fact that for many people the atmospheric music is created by a long delay and tremoling distorted guitars, in fact it can be created by different musical means and instruments. The only thing is important—to induce exact emotion into the listener.

INFRARED MAG: The artwork for “Eternal” is visually striking and complements the music perfectly. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the artwork and how it ties into the themes explored in the single?

ABYSSLOOKER: This decaying corpse of an astronaut reflects the feeling of complete solitude and hopelessness; this strongly ties to the lyrics of the song.

INFRARED MAG: What message or emotions do you hope listeners take away from “Eternal,” and how do you convey these through your music?

ABYSSLOOKER: In this track, we would like to convey feelings and emotions that we would not wish the listener to experience in their life. It is a safe place to observe the darkest corners of human being. We convey this through tragic melody and grim narrative.

INFRARED MAG: Finally, what are your plans for the future? Are there any upcoming projects or releases that fans can look forward to?

ABYSSLOOKER: This single is a harbinger of the upcoming album.

INFRARED MAG: Thank you once again for taking the time to speak with us. Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fans and supporters?

ABYSSLOOKER: Stay strong. Keep safe.

ABYSSLOOKER‘s “Eternal” stands as a testament to the band’s artistic evolution and their unwavering commitment to the darker aspects of metal music. With its atmospheric depth and introspective quality, “Eternal” invites listeners on a journey through the darkest corners of the human experience, offering a safe space to confront and contemplate the void. As ABYSSLOOKER prepares for the release of their upcoming album, fans and newcomers alike can look forward to further explorations into the existential themes that define the band’s music. Through their unique blend of post-metal and black metal, ABYSSLOOKER continues to captivate and engage, promising more immersive and thought-provoking experiences in the realms of dark, introspective metal.