1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the musical project?
Of course, Vicar is an expression of my path work and my way of continuing the occult tradition. I say an expression of path-work and what I mean is, on any path one embarks on whether it be luciferian, druidism, hermeticism, asceticism, etc. You start to rewire your perception of life and reality and it becomes quite frustrating to operate around those who do not understand. It is recommended one keep a "magickal diary" during The Great Work so one may have an actual record to compare progress and failure with. I think what they dont say in all that is what you need is an outlet for what your learning, so it does not overwhelm. I also said Vicar is my way of continuing "Occult tradition". As for that, throughout history esoteric knowledge, and truth about many things have been kept in tight circles. Those who broadcast into the realm of the norm in an attempt to spread a message, agenda, or simply for membership do so through a heavy amount of symbolism. I believe black metal is the perfect medium for spreading a message to those most susceptible and accepting of its message and symbology when speaking demographically. This is why I chose "Occult Black Metal" for this project, if it is to be labeled.
2.In May you had released a demo, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?
The demo was produced over a long period of time and unfortunately with many equipment errors. I would describe the sound on the demo as a bit harsh with a wall of ritualistic haze. I feel that as the demo progresses you are hearing the music shift from moments of clarity to complete madness. I am not as pleased with the demo as I would like, and released it to let it be for what it is, and everyone will have a different opinion on that.
3.The lyrics cover a great amount of occult and hermetic topics, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in Occultism?
I have studied the left path of spirituality since I was in my young teens. It is an interest that followed me and helped me throughout my life. When I was younger and quite a bit more rebellious I was rather intrigued by the "darker" side of religion. This interest led me into needing hard facts and more in depth answers to these deities and cultures I was learning about . Once you delve deep enough into any faith and look for truth it will lead you out of one faith and into another, and that is precisely what happened. I started reading holy texts of any faith I could learn about, from the mainstream to obscure grimoires half translated, trying to piece together a picture of hidden faith in history. To this day I still branch out and learn what I can. I cannot subscribe myself to a single faith for you, I take what I have learned and I use what works. I heavily borrow from the rituals of those who practice forms of hermeticism, kabbala, asceticism, thelema, and scientific illuminism. I have found in a lot of aspects almost all occult paths stem from a hermetic philosophy so that is what I focus on.
4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Vicar'?
As I said Vicar is my way of spreading a message to those who are meant to come across it. A way of teaching as I learn. The name is derived from a dream I had of a clergy member breaking free of the church that imprisoned him with promises of salvation, and taking up the cloak to spread the message of the true origins of enlightenment, and the means to it through occult philosophy, principles, history, and application through ritual. A Vicar preaches.
5.With this project you record everything by yourself, are you open to working with other musicians or do you prefer to work solo?
Yes, I am very open to working with other musicians. I am currently looking for another project with similar philosophy to release a split with. As for other musicians in the project, I have come to the conclusion that if Vicar ever becomes a live act I would need a full band. In that case, yes I would be fully open to continuing as a full act. I doubt that will happen though. I will probably find myself in an unrelated live act before Vicar ever manifests live.
6.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
I am not actively seeking a label but would not be opposed it. I would greatly prefer releases done in LP format for the most part, so if that ever became a possibility I would consider it. Because I released the demo so late in May and have only recently really spread the music around, and I didn't really do much promotion. I have not had any offers yet.
7.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of black metal?
I have had constructive criticism but nothing negative. It seems to be enjoyed by those who have listened to it. I was actually quite surprised by the praise it has manage to muster so far. The Usbm scene as a whole is way to busy worrying about being "Kvlt" and accepted by the "Trve" that I don't think many American fans have heard it, let alone stop taking selfies long enough to look for new music. Most of the exposure and feedback has been from Europe.
8.This solo project is based in Oregon, do you feel your musical style stands out in your home state where most bands are playing a different style?
Actually, Oregon is not my home state, I was raised in New York. I relocated to Oregon and have not looked back since. This state allows for me to exist as off the grid as I feel like being. I feel as though my sound is very different from those who call this state home. In NY we don't not have a lot of the natural beauty or the culture Oregon has. It seems a bit surreal here for me. This project was thought of and brought into manifestation from that so I think not being a local separates my sound a bit.
9.Are you also involved with any other bands or musical projects?
I have a few side projects that I have my foot in, although they span across states, and the status of a couple are unknown. I am hoping they still come together.
10.When can we expect a full length album and also where do you see yourself heading into as a musician in the future?
I am currently working on a mini album, with a full length to be released shortly after. I am simply waiting until I have my sound correct for a full length. As for my future, I can only hope that Vicar manifests into all I believe it can truly be, and I plan to keep making music as long as I still have something write.
11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Some bands that I feel influence Vicar are: Abigor, Aosoth, Arckanum, Cult Of Fire, Inquisition, Merrimack, Nightbringer, Windir, to name a few. I listen to alot of different styles of black metal but always prefer bands with an occult theme. I feel as though it adds a degree of 'intelligence' and purpose to the music. Lately I have been listening to : Hic Iacet, Malthusian, Maveth, Alchemyst, Aethyvorous, Mitochondrion, Sonne Adam, Svartduadi, Gris, Peste Noir, Mgla. I am constantly looking for new music to draw inspiration from.
12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
I would just like to say thank you for the review, and your time. Many hails to you and yours.
-Fr. Sanctis
https://thevicarkneltatthealtar.bandcamp.com/releases
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