Interview with BLAZOK
Welcome to the FILTHY DOGS OF METAL Webzine.
Tell us a few things about BLAZOK (Members, Starting Year etc).
Blazok began as a group of friends who decided to play music together in 2024. The band initially consisted of Samuel on bass, Xavier on drums, and me, Kavadas, handling guitar and vocals. My original idea was to create something rooted in black metal, but as time went on, we decided to mix it with speed metal to add even more aggression to our sound. Eventually, we stopped playing together as a group. However, I (Kavadas) decided to keep the project alive and recorded the demo "Sex, Alcohol & Black Metal" entirely on my own. At the moment, I’m actively looking for new members to join Blazok and take this vision to the next level.
You have recently released your demo 'Sex, Alcohol & Black Metal'''. What is the feedback from your audience as well as from the press?
The feedback has been explosive! Fans have embraced the raw energy and unapologetic themes, praising the mix of speed and darkness in our sound. The press has noted our old-school approach and high energy as refreshing in the modern scene.
Label or DIY and why?
DIY for now. It gives us complete creative freedom and aligns with the underground ethos we admire. Vinyl is our preferred medium as it’s the most authentic and old-school way to experience music, capturing the essence of the raw sound we want to deliver.
Is there any funny or weird story from the recordings or from your live shows that you would like to share with us?
During one of our rehearsals, our drummer decided to sniff powdered juice mix for no reason. He didn’t say a word about it, just went back to playing as if nothing had happened. It left everyone baffled and laughing hysterically.
Do you prefer Vinyl, Tape, CD or Digital Format and why is that?
Vinyl, without a doubt. It’s the most old-school and authentic way to experience music. The warmth of the sound and the tactile experience of holding a record match perfectly with the raw energy of our music.
Your music style is Black/Speed Metal. Which are your main influences (Favourite Artists / Bands etc.)
Sodom, Hellripper, Vectis, Bathory and Venom are our biggest influences.
Which things do you think a band should sacrifice in order to succeed? Have you ever sacrificed anything in your life for a better future for your band?
A band needs to sacrifice comfort and stability for true dedication and time, relationships, and even financial security. We’ve given up a lot of personal time and resources, but it’s all worth it to push Blazok’s vision forward.
Describe your ideal live show as a performance band. Have you already experienced that?
The ideal Blazok live show is pure chaos, a storm of sound, sweat, and fire. We’d blend raw energy with visual theatrics, like old-school satanic imagery, bringing the audience into a ritualistic frenzy. While we’ve had great gigs, we’re building toward that vision with every performance.
What attributes do you think that a new Black/Speed Metal Band should have in order to gain identity and be unique?
A band needs authenticity, a distinct sound, and a strong visual identity. It’s about staying true to your vision while pushing boundaries, mixing aggression with memorable hooks, and owning the stage. Innovation while honoring the old-school spirit is key.
Do you believe that Digital Platforms help the new Black/Speed Metal Bands? Which, do you think, is the ideal way for a band to promote its work?
Digital platforms are great for reaching a wider audience, but the underground spirit is built on physical formats and personal connections.
Tell us a few things about the New Underground Metal Scene in Portugal (Bands, Fanzines, Webzines, Metal Clubs etc.)
We’re focused on reviving the underground metal scene in Portugal, especially in Leiria. Along with other emerging bands like Falsus Deum, we aim to bring back the rebellious spirit of old-school metal. Collaboration within the community and local shows are crucial to achieving this.
Do you know anything about the Hellenic Metal Scene?
Honestly, we’ve only really explored Rotting Christ from the Hellenic Metal scene. We respect their influence and unique sound, but beyond that, we haven’t delved deeply into it yet.
What are your future plans?
Our main goal now is to start playing more shows and spreading our music to a larger audience. After this demo, we’re looking forward to releasing a full-length album and taking the next steps as a band.
Thank you very much for your time & keep up the good work!
By Steve the Filthy Dog.
BLAZOK CONTACT:
https://blazok.bandcamp.com/album/sex-alcohol-black-metal-demo