Interview with THE HOST
!!!BLACKENED DEATH METAL FROM BRAZIL!!!
Welcome to the FILTHY DOGS OF METAL Webzine.
We had a conversation with W.A.R. (Vocals). Enjoy!
Tell us a few things about THE HOST.
The Host was founded in April 2004, initially focused on Black Metal. Over time, our sound evolved into a more Blackened Death Metal approach. Throughout the years, the band has undergone some lineup changes. Since the beginning, the core members have been myself, W.A.R. (lyrics and vocals), Alexandre (bass), and Janderson (guitars). Currently, we are joined by Manfredo on drums and Haereticus on keyboards. Over the years, we have released three demos, one EP, and two singles. After a 13-year hiatus, the band has returned to continue its unholy path. The Host’s essence is a journey into chaos and darkness, exploring the inevitable destruction of humanity.
You have recently released your single ''The Origin Through the Void.'' What is the feedback from your audience as well as from the press?
The feedback has been extremely positive so far. Both the audience and critics have praised the track, likely due to its intense atmosphere and the balance between raw aggression and melodic intricacy, as well as the themes it explores. Some listeners have emphasized the depth of the lyrics and the thematic concept behind the music, which perfectly aligns with the dark and mystical imagery we aim to convey.
Label or DIY and why?
At the moment, we’re working independently. Being DIY gives us full creative control and the flexibility to explore our artistic vision without external pressures. However, we also recognize the need for greater visibility and the support a label can provide to help the band grow. That said, we are open to collaborating with a label that shares our goals and can help us reach a wider audience, especially for releasing our music in physical formats like CD, LP, and cassette. We’re actively exploring such opportunities and have already received some proposals, which is exciting! Stay tuned for updates!
Is there any funny or weird story from the recordings or from your live shows that you would like to share with us?
We don’t have any particularly funny or weird stories to share right now, but we’ll definitely let you know if something interesting happens in the future! While recording, we try to stay focused and be as efficient as possible, and we adopt the same approach during concerts. However, at the moment, we are not performing live shows, as we are solely focused on composing and recording new material since the band’s return from its hiatus (2010 to 2022). The last recording sessions went smoothly, with the usual stress that comes with the process. Although some songs were more complex and tiring to record, overall it was a pretty smooth experience. Nothing too out of the ordinary!
Do you prefer Vinyl, Tape, CD or Digital Format and why is that?
Each format has its charm, or not. Vinyl and tapes capture the warmth and nostalgia of listening to music, and represent a raw and underground aesthetic, which for me is incredibly iconic and sentimental. CDs offer a more polished experience, but it’s just an okay way to listen to music, nothing special about that. Digital formats provide accessibility, and it's great to discover more bands and spread our music, but it’s not my passion. I feel like it makes things somewhat superficial and transient, lacking true emotion and a real connection with the music. If I had to choose, vinyl would always be my favorite due to its ritualistic nature, it feels timeless, like the art itself.
Your music style is Blackened Death Metal. Which are your main influences?
Our influences range from classics like Black Sabbath, Venom, Led Zeppelin, Judas Priest, Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, Iron Maiden, to bands like Sarcófago, Samael, Rotting Christ, Emperor, Behemoth, Dissection, and many others. We are also influenced by death metal icons such as Deicide, Morbid Angel, Obituary, Carcass, and Death, for example. Thrash metal bands like Slayer, Destruction, Kreator, Metallica, and Sepultura also have a great impact on us. Additionally, we draw inspiration from bands that blend dark atmospheres and experimentation, such as Moonspell and Arcturus. Since there are so many influences, and they are quite varied within the metal genre, it's not easy to list the main ones that drive us.
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?
Sacrifice is inevitable, whether it’s time, finances, or personal relationships – and this applies to everyone involved in music. Speaking for myself, I’ve invested countless hours and resources into our music, often at the expense of other aspects of life. Dedication and a clear vision are essential, but for me, it’s the acceptance and support we receive, along with the journey itself, that truly matter.
Describe your ideal live show as a performance band. Have you already experienced that?
An ideal live show would combine intense music with a theatrical atmosphere, like dark ambience, smoke, and symbolic visuals that enhance the themes of the songs. Of course, good-quality equipment and a receptive, energetic audience are also essential. Some of our past concerts were great, but not exactly like I described here. While we haven’t performed in recent years, we plan to bring this vision to life in the future.
What attributes do you think a new Black/Death Metal band should have in order to gain identity and be unique?
Authenticity and a strong conceptual foundation are essential. A band should have a distinct sound, whether through innovative songwriting, unique lyrical themes, or an unforgettable visual identity. Staying true to your artistic vision is key.
Do you believe that Digital Platforms help new Black/Death Metal Bands? Which, do you think, is the ideal way for a band to promote its work?
Digital platforms are a double-edged sword. They provide exposure and accessibility, but also oversaturate the scene and the entire music market. I think it was much more fun and emotional in the past, with only physical media. But today, the ideal promotion combines digital presence with physical releases, alongside building networks with other bands and engaging with the underground community through zines, forums, and shows.
Do you see any differences between the Brazilian Metal Market & the EU Metal Market (Labels, Bands, Fans etc)?
The EU market is more structured and offers greater opportunities for touring and exposure. In Brazil, the underground scene is big but often faces challenges like limited resources and logistical difficulties. However, in general, we Brazilians are incredibly passionate, and we overcome these challenges with energy and the support we give each other to make things happen. This is what makes it so great; it creates an unmatched passion in the music we make.
Tell us a few things about the New Underground Metal Scene in Brazil (Bands, Fanzines, Webzines, Metal Clubs etc.)
The Brazilian underground scene is alive and thriving, with many bands pushing boundaries in the metal genre. Bands like Sepultura, Vulcano, Sarcófago, Angra, Mystifier, Nervochaos, Rebaelliun, Krisiun, and others, some of them pioneers and some still active and incredibly dedicated, paved the way. Newer acts such as Paradise in Flames, Tellus Terror, Spiritual Hate, Sepulchral Whore, Miasthenia, Mortem Crucis, The Black Spade, and countless others are proudly carrying the torch. Magazines, webzines, radio programs, YouTube channels, and fanzines play a crucial role in connecting the community. Examples include Roadie Crew, Lucifer Rex, Metal Reunion Zine, Apocalipse program, Encyclopaedia Of Evil program, Na Lâmina da Foice YouTube channel, and others. Additionally, dedicated metal clubs help keep the spirit alive.
Do you know anything about the Hellenic Metal Scene?
Absolutely! The Hellenic metal scene has a distinct sound and atmosphere that set it apart. Bands like Rotting Christ, Varathron, Necromantia, Septic Flesh, and Nightfall, to name a few, have had a profound impact on the global black metal community, and they have also influenced our music. I deeply admire the unique blend of mysticism and aggression they bring to their sound.
What are your future plans?
We've just finalized work on our upcoming album, ARS TENEBRARUM, which combines new compositions with unreleased material written during our early years up until our hiatus. We are currently promoting some of its songs and considering proposals for its release, aiming for the second half of 2025. Additionally, we are writing and recording new songs for a future release and exploring opportunities for collaborations in compilations and other projects. Our goal is also to expand our reach and connect with listeners worldwide.
Thank you very much for your time & keep up the good work! The closure is yours.
Thank you for the opportunity to share a bit about The Host with your readers! I invite everyone to follow and subscribe to our Instagram and YouTube channels; it would make a huge difference for us. To those who walk the dark paths with us and stay true to themselves: embrace the chaos and let the music guide you. Hails!
By Steve the Filthy Dog.
THE HOST CONTACT:
https://www.facebook.com/thehostblackdeath/
https://www.instagram.com/thehostbd/
https://soundcloud.com/thehostbd