Interview with JEHOVAH ON DEATH

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

The need to create was the driving force. Being the only species able to go against nature and natural order - time, even for a fleeting instant, through our art, is the ultimate blasphemy. If we weren’t musicians, our daily life would involve sermons, sacrament, extracting confessions through torment, etc.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

How long has your band been around? Also, please tell me about the dynamic of the band of what brought you all together.

The Inquisition, Jehovah On Death, was formed in 2020. The times were filled with uncertainty and woe, and the thirst for creation was very present. That prompted us to assemble the inquisitors to accompany the Señora and spread the word to the masses.

Where are you based and how did that influence your music?

We are based in Athens, Greece. We are fortunate to have many amazing genre-defining bands, though mostly Extreme Metal. This aided our own pursuit, as we felt, at the time, there is a vacancy for an Occult Rock band in the Greek scene.

How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?

The name ‘Jehovah On Death’ comes from a passage in Deuteronomy (32:41-43) where JHVH promises revenge and immense suffering on his opponents.

Tell me about your most memorable shows.

The Inquisition hasn’t graced the stage but a few times, however the first show always holds a dear place in our heart. It was the first time after years that we physically presented our efforts to our faithful sinners.

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

Any place that can respect our sound and show is a great place for us. A spacious stage that is able to fit all of us with our stage decoration is always welcome. “Temple” is a venue that we believe is ideal (at least in Athens) and we are planning to desecrate it soon…

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

Any like-minded individuals. Partnering with bands like Purson, Sabbath Assembly, Watain would certainly result in a memorable and blasphemous spectacle.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

Be honest and clear with your intentions and goals as a band, have realistic expectations, and don’t settle for mediocrity.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

Every member has a different pick. However, our proudest moment was releasing our single “Blood Madonna”. Even though our sound matured from that point, this release marked the beginning of our musical endeavors. It wasn’t a quick or easy process, but we are forever grateful for our efforts.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

As mentioned above, we disagree amongst ourselves. It seems that our congregation has a preference for “Blood Madonna” and “Wherein Converge Sad Destinations”, understandably.

What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?

What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?

Our hymns speak of Love and Anguish, of pain and pleasure resulting from punishing oneself over the concept of sin.

Do you have any new singles, videos, or albums out that you would like to tell me and your fans about?

Our latest release is an EP titled “Goya’s Witches”, which is an homage to the great 18th century artist Francisco Goya. It explores the legend of "Black Spain" and provides faithful listeners with an audio landscape with which to further ponder upon the paintings 'A Procession of Flagellants' and 'Witches' Flight'. Accompanying the EP is a music video of the same title, which is soon to be released, and a comic book titled “The Songstress”.

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

Our full album, this time with Spanish flair, is in the works and will soon be released. The themes have shifted more towards exploring the Spanish Black Legend and superstitions of that time, as seen in “Goya’s Witches”.

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

Spotify, YouTube, Instagram, Bandcamp and other common platforms through which we can spread our message. All our declarations, proclamations, and hymns can be found here: 

https://linktr.ee/jhvhondeath 

Jehovah On Death - Let Me Die (And Die of Love) OFFICIAL VIDEO - Occult Rock