Pits Interview

 

1. For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?

Pits is a blackened progressive metal band formed in 2022 by our guitarist, Alex. It started as a solo studio project to record a decade’s worth of ideas but evolved into a full lineup.

Alex Prokofyev: Guitars (ex-Urskumug)

Andrey Nyarl: Vocals (Begotten, ex-Urskumug, ex-Disease)

Alex Potapov: Fretless Bass (Aal, Evulsion, ex-Ygodeh, ex-Consumed..)

Rodion Belshevits: Drums (Åskog, Kolotun, Noctem, ex-Urskumug, ex-Interment..)

We aim to blend melodic black metal riffing with progressive rhythm sections.

2. You have your first full length coming out in January, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

We wanted to explore the heavier side of the progressive spectrum. The goal was to create a soundscape that feels unstable and alive. It shifts between ferocity and introspection without losing that raw, emotional edge.

3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music?

Macabre Luxuria deals largely with the "luxury" of demise. We explore themes of scorched earth, internal consumption, and the creeping dread of the end. Songs like "Premonition" and "Nero’s Blues" tackle different angles of this apocalyptic mindset, ranging from personal anxiety to total collapse.

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Pits'?

It represents the bottom—whether that’s an emotional void, a state of depression, or the darkest depths of the human experience. It’s a simple, stark name that fits the claustrophobic atmosphere of our music and the bleak urban imagery we use.

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

Our vocalist Andrey created the artwork. It features a gritty, high-contrast image of a massive apartment block at night. We wanted something grounded and real rather than typical fantasy art. The gold lettering against the bleak, grainy concrete creates a contrast that fits the irony of the title Macabre Luxuria perfectly—finding a strange intensity in decay.

6. Has the band done any live shows or open to the idea?

Pits is mainly a studio project at the moment. We don't have current plans for live shows as we are focused on the recording and release side of things, but we don't exclude the possibility completely for the future.

7. So far very little is known about the band, do you prefer to keep a lower profile?

It wasn't a strategic choice to be mysterious; we just prioritized the work. We wanted to make sure the songwriting and the recording were exactly right before we started making noise. Now that the album is ready, we are happy to step out of the shadows.

8. Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

We are currently independent. We are always open to working with a label if they understand our vision and can help get the record out to a wider audience, but for now, we are focused on getting Macabre Luxuria released on our own terms.

9. On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of progressive black and death metal?

Since the album drops in January, it’s a bit early to gauge a worldwide reaction. However, the early feedback from those who have heard the promo material has been encouraging.

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

We want to continue refining that balance between technicality and emotion and keep lean further into that fluid, unstable sound while keeping the aggression high.

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?

Since some of these riffs were written a decade ago, the influences come from quite a few different places over the years. I would say bands like Shining, Craft and Ihsahn were major influences on the vibe we went for. We wanted that mix of raw black metal aggression and progressive structure.

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

Thanks for the interview. Our debut Macabre Luxuria is out in January 30 and first single on January 20. If you’re into music that is melodic, crushing, and a bit unconventional, give it a listen.