\nA brutal descent into existential chaos, death metal supremacy, and two decades of evolution.<\/p>\n
Origins & Creative Process
\n1. Seeds of Apostasy is your first release since your last full-length. What creative spark or
\ninternal shift led to this new chapter for Monastery Dead?
\nDespite the fact that some of these tracks were written quite a long time ago, were released
\npreviously and, in fact, are the versions recorded by our current line-up in accordance with
\nmodern production standards, at current tempos and arrangements, we can probably call this EP a
\nnew chapter in the band's history.
\nWe breathed new life into our old material, gave a wide audience the opportunity to get to know
\nour roots, understand the seeds of our concept. Creating this quintessence of our approach to the
\ngenre and paying the homage to its origins we got back in time by ourselves to find the way to
\nmove further.
\n2. When did the writing process begin for these seven tracks? Was the EP created in one burst
\nof intensity, or written over time?
\nThe oldest track, called "One More Interrupted Life" was created in 2008\u20132009 and, like the
\nothers, was reworked several times to reach its modern version. The EP track-list was made
\npretty fast after we realized that it\u2019s high time to resurrect the primal spirit of Monastery Dead.
\n3. Did you go into the studio with a fully formed concept, or did the themes take shape
\norganically during recording?
\nYes, the concept was complete but it always happens that the details slightly change during the
\nrecording process when it comes to the backing vocals or cymbals for example.<\/p>\n
Themes of the EP
\n4. The record explores existential crisis, spiritual decay, and religious disintegration. What
\ndrew you to these themes at this stage in the band\u2019s evolution?
\nWe believe these themes will always be relevant. The band addressed them back in 2004 and still
\nreturn to them in one way or another. In our opinion the creative process begins with diving into
\nthe abyss of the human reason in order to bring to the surface what is hidden from the outside
\nworld because often conflicts with it. This struggle births something raw, a truth stripped of
\npretense, sincere, yet destructive to the one who uncovers it.
\nWe capture the process of self-destruction, the fall from grace, and ask the question: "What if this
\nfall is the true path?"
\n5. Is Seeds of Apostasy meant to be interpreted as a narrative, a collection of individual
\nstories, or a philosophical statement about modern life?
\nWithout a doubt, this is a philosophical statement built on the antithesis between human reason
\nand human nature.<\/p>\n
6. How much of these themes reflect personal experience versus broader observation of society
\nand global events?
\nThe personal experience is the entry point, the raw fuel. It's the intimate feeling of spiritual
\nvertigo, the private moments of disintegration, and the firsthand confrontation with existential
\ndread. You can't convincingly sing about a hollow core if you haven't felt the echo in your own
\nchest.
\nAs for the broader observation, the decay of shared narratives, the collective anxiety of our era,
\nthe spectacle of global instability aren't just backdrops. They amplify and give shape to the
\npersonal void.<\/p>\n
Sound, Style & Evolution
\n7. You\u2019ve been compared to bands like Bloodbath, Misery Index, and Jungle Rot. How do you
\nbalance honoring old-school death metal with pushing forward into your own identity?
\nI wouldn\u2019t say that we are trying to \u201cbalance\u201d things. We genuinely love old-school death metal
\nfor its rawness, pure aggression, and energy, as well as for its unique sound that was born when
\nnobody really knew how death metal was supposed to be made, so everyone did it their own way
\ninstead of following certain formulas or algorithms. We try to preserve that honesty and spirit in
\nour music, while at the same time making sure that our sound meets modern technical standards.
\n8. What elements of Monastery Dead\u2019s sound do you feel evolved the most on this EP
\ncompared to past albums?
\nWith every new recording, we gain experience that we then apply to the next one. The same goes
\nfor the engineers we work with. So I\u2019d say that our sound as a whole evolves with each new
\nrelease. To be more specific we placed a much greater emphasis on the bass guitar sound this
\ntime. Since the rhythm section is the essential foundation of any great track, we were determined
\nto make it as rock-solid as possible.
\n9. The EP is only 19 minutes long but extremely dense and intense. Was the short-and-brutal
\napproach intentional?
\nWe didn't think about the timing at the conceptual stage of the EP and selected the tracks solely
\nbased on stylistic parameters. First and foremost, we wanted to convey the essence of the band\u2019s
\napproach to the genre, and we are happy with the result. We are also pleased that the release can
\nbe listened to in one breath.<\/p>\n
Track-Specific Deep Dives
\n10. \u201cOne More Interrupted Life\u201d is a massive opener \u2014 what message or emotion were you
\ntrying to establish right from the start?
\nWe consider this track to be the most powerful one, setting the tone for the entire concept and
\nbest conveying the mood of the EP. It establishes a message of death's absolute dominion,
\nexistential inevitability, bleak fatalism and numb despair.
\n11. \u201cVoracity Of Madness\u201d has a chaotic, almost psychological edge. What inspired this track
\nmusically and lyrically?
\nThis track, along with the others, draws inspiration from the old-school masters of the genre. It
\nhas a chaotic structure, designed to make the listener feel the atmosphere of an internal war\u00a0that<\/p>\n
drives one toward mad, nihilistic conclusions.\u00a0It's not meant to be easy listening but\u00a0rather\u00a0an
\nimmersion into a state of cognitive dissonance and fraying sanity.
\n12. \u201cCold And Gloom\u201d dives into atmosphere and dread. How did you approach writing
\nsomething so emotionally suffocating?
\nOur goal was to depict the ultimate entropy, complete victory of absolute nothingness over the
\nphenomena of life, civilization, and soul. It\u2019s a metaphysical breakdown where we are trapped,
\nhope is extinguished, and our universe reaches its final.
\n13. \u201cSick Absolution\u201d deals heavily with religious themes \u2014 what\u2019s the story or concept behind
\nthat song?
\nThis song is a statement\u00a0about\u00a0the hypocrisy we face in religious contexts, where absolutist faith
\ncorrupts into a system of ritualized abuse. The language of salvation\u00a0ultimately\u00a0becomes the
\nvehicle for utter subjugation, and the believer's body becomes the altar for a violent, blasphemous
\nsacrifice.
\n14. \u201cAbyss Of Depression\u201d is brutally introspective. Did writing or performing this track take
\nan emotional toll?
\nThis track depicts the state where the self is purged through a revolting psychic emesis and the
\nonly remaining choice is to acquiesce to the deepening fall.
\n15. \u201cLeft To Rot\u201d feels like a tribute to classic death metal. Was that intentional?
\nYes, it\u2019s tribute to classic death metal as well as the other songs. Its core idea is not just death, but
\na prolonged, conscious unraveling where all agency, connection, and hope are irrevocably
\nstripped away, leaving only the raw, indifferent process of decay.
\n16. \u201cOverthrown God\u201d closes the EP with immense force. Why was this the right track to end
\non?
\nOverthrown God is the proper conclusion to the EP. It represents the final apostasy reached via
\nthe pain, suffering and raw, visceral experience, the freedom achieved with the death of false god
\nwithin.<\/p>\n
Production, Studio & Artworks
\n17. Seeds of Apostasy was recorded at BuzzyLick Studio. What made this studio the right
\nenvironment for capturing such intensity?
\nWe have known BuzzyLick Studio and Ivan for a very long time. We feel completely at home
\nworking within its walls. Ivan understands each musician's individual approach, which is
\ninvaluable during recording. He has a deep grasp of our sound, is fully invested in the creative
\nprocess, and leverages all modern techniques and equipment available. What more could a
\nmusician ask for in a recording session?
\n18. How did Dead Kennedy\u2019s mixing and mastering approach influence the final sound?<\/p>\n
We are incredibly grateful for his professionalism and contribution. His approach was
\nfundamental in shaping the final sound, and his work made a profound impact on the outcome.
\nWe were thoroughly satisfied with both the results and the collaborative process.
\n19. Ivan Stan\u2019s cover art perfectly captures the album\u2019s decay and disillusionment. What was
\nyour direction or vision for the artwork?
\nWe tend to avoid collaborating with people who don't fully grasp our concepts. Ivan Stan
\nunderstands our creative vision completely, which is why we've worked together for so many
\nyears. This time, the goal was to depict a dissent that grows excruciatingly from within the human
\nbeing, and in our opinion, Ivan executed this vision flawlessly.<\/p>\n
20. Do the visuals tie into a larger conceptual world for Monastery Dead?
\nAt least two of our latest releases are tied and we plan to enlarge the number of works that could
\ninteract within our main concept.<\/p>\n
Band Dynamics & Longevity
\n21. Monastery Dead has been active since 2004 \u2014 more than 20 years. What has kept the band
\ngoing through scene changes, global turmoil, and lineup shifts?
\nOf course, the band hasn\u2019t been as active over the past 20 years as we are now. There have been
\nperiods of inactivity and internal conflicts, yet we have always been united by a common goal. I
\nbelieve it is precisely this shared vision along with the adventures we experience on tour, the
\nemotions we share on stage, and, of course, our listeners that has kept us on our path all this time.
\n22. How has each member contributed uniquely to the sound of Seeds of Apostasy?
\nEach of us has our own playing style and set of instruments. I believe that it is the combination of
\nthese elements that makes up the sound of Monastery Dead.
\n23. What is the band dynamic like today compared to your early years?
\nOver the past five years, we\u2019ve significantly changed the approach to our work. I believe that at
\nthe moment we are at the peak of our activity, but that\u2019s definitely not enough. We plan to keep
\ngrowing, so we will become even more active over time.
\n24. You\u2019ve shared stages with Dying Fetus, Unleashed, and other giants. What did you learn
\nfrom performing with such influential acts?
\nThe biggest lesson was\u00a0total conviction. They play with an authority that commands respect,
\nteaching us that extreme music must be delivered without hesitation, as an absolute truth. We also
\nlearned about\u00a0controlling energy\u00a0on stage: how to build tension, pace a setlist, and turn a
\nperformance into a physical experience for the audience.
\nUltimately, it showed us that longevity comes from\u00a0professionalism, consistency, and an
\nunwavering dedication to the craft.\u00a0It was the ultimate masterclass in how to be a formidable live
\nband.<\/p>\n
Scene, Culture & Identity<\/p>\n
25. How has the Russian metal scene changed since you formed, and where do you feel
\nMonastery Dead fits within it today?
\nThe Russian metal scene has changed a lot. Over the years, many professional bands have
\nemerged in Russia, some of which you have probably heard of. The music has become much
\nmore professional, and there are far more opportunities now, including technical ones. I think that
\ntoday we are one of the oldest existing Russian death metal bands.
\n26. Has the band\u2019s identity or worldview been shaped by your environment in St. Petersburg?
\nUndoubtedly, the atmosphere of Saint-Petersburg has influenced our music and lyrics. The city
\noften has a melancholic mood. Its grayness, monumentality, and elegance have made a significant
\ncontribution to every aspect of our music.
\n27. Do you feel Russian death metal has its own signature style, and if so, how does Monastery
\nDead represent or deviate from it?
\nI believe that Russian death metal definitely has its own signature. I\u2019ve often heard from our
\nFinnish listeners that Russian death metal carries pure emotions, genuine aggression, and energy.
\nIt seems to me that Monastery Dead fits this description perfectly. We strive to convey our
\ngenuine feelings and emotions through our music, which is why it comes across as sincere.<\/p>\n
Future Plans & Direction
\n28. Seeds of Apostasy feels like a statement of rebirth and aggression. Does this EP foreshadow
\na new full-length album?
\nNo, Seed of Apostasy is a separate work. It\u2019s more of a reflection or summary of the stage in the
\nband\u2019s existence.
\n29. How much new material is currently in the works?
\nAt the moment, we are working on a single, which has already been recorded and is currently in
\nthe mixing and mastering stage. We have also started writing new material for upcoming releases.
\nStay tuned for updates.
\n30. Do you foresee experimenting with new sonic territories, or doubling down on the brutality
\nyou\u2019ve perfected?
\nWe will stick to our current style, but since we are evolving, we will of course incorporate new
\nideas if we deem them necessary. We are open to new things, but we don\u2019t want to lose our
\nidentity.
\n31. Are there plans for touring internationally to support the EP?
\nWe would like to do a tour in support of the EP in 2026, but we\u2019re not ready to share specifics
\nyet.<\/p>\n
For the Fans<\/p>\n
32. What do you hope listeners feel \u2014 physically, emotionally, spiritually \u2014 when they hear
\nSeeds of Apostasy?
\nWe\u2019d like listeners to feel an urge to smash concrete walls with their bare hands while listening to
\nSeeds of Apostasy. We want this EP to evoke anger and power, to fill people with energy and
\ngive them the strength to face and overcome their challenges.
\n33. For someone discovering Monastery Dead for the first time with this EP, which album in
\nyour discography should they explore next?
\nWithout a doubt, it should be Ego Sum Dolor. It is more complex both conceptually and
\ntechnically. An attentive listener will find many interesting details in it that will make them think
\nand experience a wide range of emotions. While listening to this album, they will go through
\nmany forms of suffering that truly happen to us and to our souls in this world.
\n34. What message would you like to send to your fans around the world as you begin this next
\nchapter?
\nWe are grateful to every person who supports us, shows activity, and simply listens to our music.
\nWe love you, without you and your support, we wouldn\u2019t exist. Come yourselves and bring your
\nfriends to our community and social media. 2026 promises to be a year full of events!<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<\/p>\n
Get ready to unleash the fury!\u00a0MONASTERY DEAD<\/strong>\u00a0has officially released their highly anticipated EP,\u00a0Seeds of Apostasy<\/em><\/strong>, and it\u2019s available now on all major streaming platforms. This relentless offering from Russia\u2019s death metal titans is sure to captivate fans of the genre with its brutal sound and uncompromising vision.<\/p>\n With\u00a0Seeds of Apostasy<\/em><\/strong>, Monastery Dead delivers a powerful statement that showcases their evolution over two decades in the underground metal scene. The EP stands as a testament to their commitment to extreme music, blending old-school death metal grit with modern precision. Each of the seven tracks serves as a harrowing exploration of themes such as existential crises, religious decay, and spiritual disintegration, making this a must-listen for fans of Bloodbath, Misery Index, and Jungle Rot.<\/p>\n For fans of: About MONASTERY DEAD: The striking cover art, crafted by Ivan Stan, perfectly encapsulates the themes of decay and disillusionment woven throughout the EP. With this release, Monastery Dead not only solidifies their legacy but also reaffirms their status as a lethal force in the death metal realm. This is not just music; it\u2019s a declaration of dominance.<\/p>\n Tracklist: Total Length: 19:54<\/p>\n Monastery Dead lineup: EP: Seeds of Apostasy Prepare to witness the next evolution of Russian death metal. Monastery Dead isn\u2019t just keeping the flame alive, they\u2019re pouring gasoline on it.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" A brutal descent into existential chaos, death metal supremacy, and two decades of evolution. Origins & Creative Process 1. Seeds of Apostasy is your first release since your last full-length. What creative spark or internal shift led to this new chapter for Monastery Dead? Despite the fact that some of these tracks were written quite […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":39223,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[482],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-39203","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-written"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39203","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=39203"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39203\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":39224,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39203\/revisions\/39224"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/39223"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=39203"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=39203"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kjagradio.com\/themic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=39203"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\n– Bloodbath
\n– Misery Index
\n– Jungle Rot<\/p>\n
\nFormed in 2004 in St. Petersburg, Monastery Dead has established themselves as one of Russia\u2019s most formidable death metal bands. With a discography that includes four full-length albums and collaborations with legendary acts such as Dying Fetus and Unleashed, they have proven their resilience and dominance in the metal underground. Their latest release,\u00a0Seeds of Apostasy<\/em><\/strong>, recorded at BuzzyLick Studio and mixed by Dead Kennedy, captures the raw intensity that fans have come to expect.<\/p>\n
\n1.One More Interrupted Life
\n2.Voracity Of Madness
\n3.Cold And Gloom
\n4.Sick Absolution
\n5.Abyss Of Depression
\n6.Left To Rot
\n7.Overthrown God<\/p>\n
\nAnton Malov \u2013 Vocals
\nKirill Tatarinov \u2013 Guitars \/ Backing Vocals
\nVadim Nikolaev \u2013 Bass
\nKirill Zharikov \u2013 Drums<\/p>\n
\nRelease Date: November 10th, 2025
\nLabel: Self-released
\nRecorded by: Ivan Dmitriev \/ BuzzyLick Studio
\nMixed & Mastered by: Dead Kennedy
\nCover Art: Ivan Stan
\nManagement: Extreme Management Group<\/p>\n