ANNIHILIST: Incorporating other elements of music into metal is what keeps it interesting

You worked with a plethora of artists over the years. What collaborations were/are the most interesting and important to You and why?

Dealing mostly with producers in their own bands over time, respectively more established than our own - I find the collaborations within the studio to be the most interesting and important. Working with an experienced recording artist, they are able to help open your mind to multiple ways of looking at the same scenario and accomplish a result in a more effective and non biased way, to help your music reach its best potential.

Can You tell me, in short the main ideas are behind Your music? Could You name Your favorite Your compositions / albums / collaborations? What about the new album?

Music to me is the truest form of an outlet I have, whatever those subjects be. I dabble in many creative endeavours, but music is the only means to expressing my true inner emotions. Where there is inspiration, the creativity and emotion has no bounds.

The sound is magic. You‘ve proved it. But, what ends, when there‘s no sound?

Silence can be considered one of musics most powerful elements.

What is and what is not a Sound Art?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I am not here to force a perspective. To me, sound art is anything that can trigger inspiration.

What do You think about relations between the old art and computer art? Are they compatible?

They are absolutely compatible. After all, our music has analogue and digital components and both work very well together. Combining old and new technology opens up more potential for a unique sound.  

What do You think about thousands of neofolk/industrial/ambient/tribal/electroacoustic/avantguarde etc. bands/projects? Is it a kind of trend, o just a tendency forwards better music?

I think incorporating other elements of music into metal is what keeps it interesting. It’s like there’s a whole world of music and genres within metal itself, suited for every mood. Growing up on metal, I feel like it’s been more of a gateway into being more open minded and appreciating other elements andy dynamics of music.

What do You know about Lithuania? What Lithuanian and foreign musicians do You value most? Tell us about Your Lithuanian background, Miki.

Being of Lithuanian heritage, It’s upsetting that I don’t hear of many great metal bands coming out of Lithuania at all (that I know of, I’d love some recommendations). However, Northern Europe and Scandinavia in particular have played a huge part my musical influences growing up and to this day with bands such as Messhugah, Soilwork, Insomnium, In Flames, Etc. Being born in Melbourne (Australia), growing up my family and I did our best to keep in touch with the Lithuanian community and learn about our heritage and language, but fell out of touch later on.

What inspires You most?

I can find inspiration anywhere, but most often from nature, isolation, nostalgia, sorrow, films or other music.

What are You working on right now?

We’re currently working on a Full length Album or EP (TBC) to be released later next year. We’re slowing down on shows for the next couple of months and focusing heavily on writing, upgrading, and improving.

What does Your band name mean to You?

Our band name to me pretty much lets people know we’re a metal band. Nothing more, nothing less. Essentially we are just a huge mix of all sorts of metal influences from everywhere melded together. 

Links:

http://annihilistofficial.com/epk

https://annihilistofficial.bandcamp.com/album/vol-1

https://www.facebook.com/annihilistofficial

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUlaBHq8--iPddu_dUG6DqA/videos