• Hi! Can you tell us about DEF/LIGHT? Why did you choose this name for the band? What kind of ideas do you explore in your music?
Hello, glad to meet you. The name DEF/LIGHT evolved from the earlier Defilers of Light. The original name felt too pretentious and pompous. We decided to shorten it, keeping a sonic allusion to the phrase “deaf light” while retaining the shortened form of the old name.
Our core themes are human development, anticlericalism, moral and existential
choices, a dose of mysticism, and, perhaps, history… and, of course, the horror
of existence, which we try to convey through our music and lyrics.
• Stygian Conclave will be released soon. How do you feel about it? Do you wish to change anything in the album, or are you fully satisfied with the result?
This album is a new step forward. I’m very happy with how powerfully we approached the musical side of things. Void is an outstanding composer. As for vocals, I always see room for improvement, even though I’m pleased with the result and confident it will be very strong. Overall, there is always a need to grow and aim to do even better.
• Can you tell us more about Stygian Conclave? What ideas form the basis of the album?
This album is a nod to Milton and his Paradise Lost, as well as a sort
of narrative continuation of Terror and Erebus. It focuses on the
first moments of the angels’ fall into Hell, on their Conclave, where they
decide to fight against God and his false throne. Partly, it also touches on
the last (known) battles of the angels of darkness against the angels—slaves of
God. It’s about the choice made when there is no turning back.
• Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Primarily from books: Schopenhauer, Cioran, Sartre, Fyodor Sologub, Skovoroda…
and my own philosophical and worldview ideas. And, of course, from life itself,
which is dark and chaotic enough to serve as a plot for black metal. To a
lesser extent — from other music and authors.
• How would you describe DEF/LIGHT’s sound?
In my opinion, it’s traditional third-wave black metal. A fairly heavy sound,
without radical experiments, but with attempts (hopefully successful) to find
our own identity. The music is harsh, fast, and, I believe, quite recognizable.
• Are you taking a break now, waiting for feedback on the album, or have you already started composing new material?
We’re always working on new material or involved in other projects. Music is a
constant process for us.
• Who are your main musical influences? How much have they shaped your sound?
I wouldn’t call them idols, but important figures. For me, the main person in
music is Chuck Schuldiner and his band Death. But I’ve been influenced by
many others: Satyricon, Hypocrisy, Napalm Death… and
honestly, thousands more from different genres. I’m simply filled with music.
• Is there a well-known musician you’d like to collaborate with on one of your upcoming albums?
Yes, but I won’t name names for now, since we’re already in talks with some
well-known musicians.
• What’s your personal strategy for getting your music heard by a wider audience?
It’s a tough question. In addition to creating incredible music, Void does
tremendous work managing social media and promotion — he handles 90% of the
marketing. He’s a giant in that field, though, of course, first and foremost a
brilliant composer and musician. I handle the visual side, concepts, lyrics,
interviews, and ideology… For us, it’s important that our listeners receive not
only the music but also the ideas, our vision, and our creative mindset.
• Do you have hobbies outside of music?
Yes, of course. I’m into philosophy, I write short horror novellas, I read a
lot, and I’m passionate about tabletop role-playing games. I’m interested in
astrophysics. I hold a degree in sociology and graduated as a clinical
psychologist, with publications in scientific journals (psychology articles). I
also have a published history book — about the Hussite movement and the history
of Prague. Void also has a wide range of interests — from astronomy to IT, as
far as I know.
• Are your families supportive of your dedication to music?
Yes, completely. My parents supported me in my childhood: my first guitar, with
handmade pickups, was built by my father. In the ’90s, they tolerated
rehearsals right in our apartment. Now my wife and children give me their full
support, even at the expense of some material comfort. Void has the same story.
• Thank you for your answers. See you on the road!
Thank you as well. I was glad to have this conversation. Hope to see you! Much
respect to the listeners — and to you!
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