Christ Agony Interview

 

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new album?

- Since the release of “Anthems,” Christ Agony has entered a new chapter — a kind of spiritual and musical rebirth. The album opened the gates once again, and the response from fans and media has been truly overwhelming. At the moment, we’re focusing on preparing for live rituals — the concerts that will bring this material to life on stage. The lineup is stable and full of energy, and I feel that the flame that has always burned within Christ Agony is now stronger than ever. We are also working on some additional releases related to “Anthems,” but for now, I will keep the details in shadows.

2.In September you had released a new album, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

- “Anthems” is a continuation of the Christ Agony legacy — yet it embodies a new dimension of sound and spirit. It’s darker, deeper, and more monumental than anything we’ve done before. The album combines the essence of our early works with the experience and maturity gathered through decades. There’s a strong sense of atmosphere, melody, and ritualistic energy, but also a raw, almost primal intensity. I would say it’s the most complete and personal Christ Agony album to date — a reflection of my inner world and the timeless spirit of the band.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you explore with the new album and also how would you describe your progress as a songwriter over the years?

- The lyrics on “Anthems” are hymns to death, darkness, and transcendence. They speak of the eternal cycle — the fall and rebirth of spirit, of finding light within the abyss. Each song is a reflection of my own inner journey, touching upon themes of spirituality, immortality, and rebellion against the illusions of existence. Over the years, my writing has evolved from pure blasphemy and defiance toward something more philosophical and introspective. I still explore the same darkness — but now it’s a darkness filled with meaning, mysticism, and spiritual awakening.

4.Over the years you have also covered a good amount of Satanic and Occult topics, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark arts?

- My interest in the dark arts was never about simple provocation or empty symbolism. For me, darkness is a spiritual state — a path toward inner knowledge and liberation from imposed truths. The occult, in its deepest sense, represents the search for what is hidden, for the essence beyond dogma and fear. Through Christ Agony, I’ve always tried to express this path — the union of light and shadow, of creation and destruction. It’s not about worshiping evil, but about embracing the totality of existence, where darkness becomes a source of wisdom and transformation.

5.In 2005 you changed the band name to 'Union' and recorded an album under the name, what was the decision behind returning back to the name 'Christ Agony'?

- The decision to change the name to Union was mainly caused by an unfair and misunderstood contract with our former label, Metal Mind Productions — a label that, interestingly, no longer exists today. At that time, the situation forced us to take that step, even though it was never something I truly wanted. It was a period of legal and personal turmoil, a time of confusion and searching for direction. But Christ Agony never really died — it remained alive within me, as the essence of my artistic and spiritual journey. Eventually, I realized that the only honest move was to return to the original name — to my roots, to the spirit and energy that have always defined who I am. Christ Agony is not just a name — it’s my life’s symbol, and abandoning it felt like denying myself.

6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

- The artwork for Anthems reflects the essence of the album — a symbolic return from the abyss, rebirth through darkness and inner transformation. The goat, which has accompanied Christ Agony for many years, once again takes a central place. For me, it is not just a satanic or provocative symbol — it’s a manifestation of primal power, wisdom, and rebellion against false light. The cover embodies the balance between chaos and order, spirit and matter, death and rebirth. Visually, I wanted it to feel both ritualistic and timeless, as if it could have been painted on the walls of a forgotten temple. It’s an image that mirrors the music — dark, sacred, and deeply human at the same time.

7.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the year and also how would you describe your stage performance?

- Over the years, Christ Agony has had many memorable shows, from intimate club gigs to festival stages. Personally, the most intense and unforgettable experiences were the early European tours, especially in 1997 alongside Behemoth and Hellheim, where everything was new and raw — the energy, the crowd, the first taste of performing abroad. Every concert has its own atmosphere, but for me, a live show is a ritual. It’s about creating a connection, a dark and immersive experience, where the music, the visuals, and the emotions converge. On stage, we aim to channel the intensity of the album while giving space for the audience to feel and participate in the ritual. It’s extreme but also deeply human, a dialogue of darkness and energy.

8.Do you have any touring or show plans for the new album?

- At the moment, we are primarily focused on promoting the album and preparing the live material. The first dates are already confirmed: Christ Agony will perform a few ritual-like shows before the end of the year, with the first one taking place on October 25th at the Wrakot Club in Łódź. I want each concert to be a unique experience – full of energy, dark atmosphere, and a direct connection with the audience. The current live lineup is ready for this emotional journey, and time will show where it will take us.

9.The band has been around since 1990, what is it that motivates you to keep going after more then 30 years?

- What keeps me going is a deep, almost instinctive need to create and express myself through music. Christ Agony has always been more than just a band for me—it is a way of life, a channel for emotion, thought, and energy. Over the years, the motivation hasn’t changed: it’s about honesty in art, the pursuit of a sound and atmosphere that only Christ Agony can deliver, and the connection with people who understand and feel this world.

10.the new album was released on 'Deformeating Productions', how would you compare working with this label to other labels that you have worked with in the past?

- Working with Deformeathing Productions has been a very natural and positive experience. Our cooperation started with reissues of previous Christ Agony albums, which allowed us to build trust and mutual understanding over time. When it came to releasing Anthems, it felt like a continuation of that relationship, with full support and shared vision. This collaboration is not just a thing of the past – we already have plans for the future, including the reissue of the 2007 mini-album Demonology with four additional tracks from that period as a bonus. Compared to other labels from the past, the key difference is the personal connection, flexibility, and a clear understanding of what Christ Agony represents musically and artistically.

11.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your newer music by fans of black metal?

- The reaction to the new music has been very positive so far, both in Poland and internationally. It’s always difficult to fully measure the response worldwide, but from what I can see online and through messages from fans, listeners appreciate that Christ Agony has stayed true to its roots while still bringing something fresh and powerful. It seems that longtime fans feel connected to the new material, and some younger listeners are discovering the band for the first time, which is very encouraging.

12.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that some of the band members are a part of?

- Currently, most of my energy is fully dedicated to Christ Agony, so other projects are mostly on hold or developing at a slower pace. Over the years, some members have participated in various side projects, but the focus right now is entirely on the band, preparing for upcoming releases and live shows. Any other activity is secondary, although I continue to compose and experiment with music in my personal studio, which sometimes influences ideas for Christ Agony.

The material for the second FaustuS album is already at a fairly advanced stage. New compositions for Christ Agony are practically ready as well, and now it’s mainly a matter of careful selection. During the long nine-year period of hiatus and stagnation, I composed a significant number of songs, so choosing which ones will make it onto the next album requires careful consideration.

13.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

- Musically, Christ Agony will continue to explore the balance between extreme intensity and atmospheric, melodic elements. I want the band to evolve while maintaining its unique identity, keeping the dark, ritualistic spirit alive. New compositions will keep pushing boundaries, but always in a way that feels organic and true to the essence of the band.

14.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band members are currently listening to nowadays?

- Lately, I have been listening to a mix of atmospheric and experimental music. Bands and projects like Wolvennest or This Mortal Coil inspire me with their textures and moods, which, while different from black metal, can influence atmosphere and depth in our compositions. I have never confined myself to a single music genre. For a long time, I have been inspired both by classical music and cold wave — Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky on one end, and on the other, bands like Dead Can Dance, Bauhaus, and Swans.

15.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts? 

- I would like to thank all the fans who have supported Christ Agony through these many years. Your loyalty and passion are what keep the music alive. With Anthems, we are entering a new chapter, but the essence of Christ Agony remains unchanged — darkness, intensity, and transcendence. Stay true to yourselves, and let the music guide you through the shadows.

CHRIST AGONY "Nocturnal Dominion" (Lyric Video)

CHRIST AGONY "Nocturnal Dominion" (Lyric Video)