Photo by: Blanka S. Heine

Thank you for taking the time, Lucerus. Cvinger has been going strong for 13 years now. How’s the band doing these days?

Thank you for the interview. We are currently recording our fourth full-length album and are quite busy.

In the description to the last released album, Doctrines by the Figures of Crnobog (2023), you said that it was written after meditation sessions in the cave of a prehistoric hunter. Can you elaborate on that?

The lyrics were written in the cave, while the music was composed a few months earlier by our now former band member, Bagot. One night, I decided to spend the night in the cave to meditate and connect with nature and myself. This place holds significant meaning for me and the Cvinger. Our first video was also filmed here, making it an out-of-body and otherworldly experience for me. After drinking a spiced tea, I began my meditation and spiritual visualization, which is when the lyrics started to flow together.

Who is the last album aimed at?

The final album is dedicated to those seeking a path in the shadow arts, to all who wish to break the chains of their slave mentality and become their true selves.

What were the specific influences that pushed you towards the most recent sound? What is driving the band in that direction?

We desire a sound that is both powerful and organic, embodying a balance of aggression and softness, chaos and order. The music should tell a story on its own, independent of the lyrics. We are not fans of modern music production; instead, our influences stem from the production styles of the 90s.

During one of the first interviews of band’s existence, for the Occultblackmetalzine, one of the past members – Bagot said: “Luceruses lyrics, my guitars and Krieg maschines drums are all the hatred, wrath and burden we carry, summoned together. The fucking spawn of Cvinger.” Did the band’s approach to music change since then? Or does it all still come from the same hatred you have?

A lot has changed since then. In the beginning, there was a great deal of anger and disappointment in our personal lives; we were not in a good place. Now, Cvinger has become more ritualistic in nature. We are trying to delve deeper into human consciousness through ancient Slavic practices and rites. I wouldn’t say that creating new music comes from a place of hate; rather, it comes from love—a desire to see this world be destroyed and then rebuilt in a more pure and unselfish way.

Over the last few years, there has been some lineup changes, what’s happening within the band right now?

In the beginning, our band consisted of just three members. Now we have grown to five: two guitarists, a bassist, a drummer, and I handle the vocals. Due to the nature of our music, we needed to add an additional guitarist. I am the last remaining member from the original trio. Currently, we have a solid lineup, and I am really pleased with how the new album is coming together.

Can you introduce the latest members?

The last two band members are Ichor on guitar and Corvus on bass. Both are exceptionally talented musicians who enhance the overall sound of the music. Ichor has experience playing in a well-regarded thrash metal band, so he is familiar with speed and intensity. Corvus, a master of his craft, brings a wealth of innovative ideas to the group. Most importantly, they are both eager for performances and are passionate about creating new material.

Where do you see the band heading from here?

I believe our journey can only go upward. If I didn’t feel this way, there would be little point in continuing the band for this long. In fact, it’s time for us to return and shake up the underground scene.

We are collaborating with the Death over Rome booking agency, which is doing a fantastic job of helping us secure shows. Tito, who runs the agency, is a great person, and it’s a pleasure to work with him.

Have your influences changed as you’ve been in the band all these years? How do you feel new inspirations shaped Cvinger’s sound?

Life and its decadence have been my inspiration. New members significantly shape the sound.

Were there any changes in the band since the release of the last album?

Bagot left the band before the release of Doctrines by the figures of Črnobog.

Who is in charge of coming up with ideas for the lyrics? Are they born from personal experiences?

I am writing lyrics, drawing inspiration from books, people, and nature.

Does Cvinger have any rituals or practices to help get into the zone of creation? Could you give an example?

Yes, we do. Everyone has their own way of getting in the mood to create. Speaking for myself, I find that I am most creative at night when it is quiet and I can focus. A little good wine, some herbs, and incense help too.

Most important: your home country-Slovenia-has a massive impact on your music. Can you elaborate on how its culture and history influence your artistic direction?

Slovenia is an amazing country, with 65 percent of its land covered in forests, and I am truly grateful to live here. Like many countries in Europe, we have experienced dark times, from which legends and secrets have emerged that inspire me.

From the enchanting dark forests of Kočevski Rog to Triglav National Park and Pohorje, Slovenia offers remarkable landscapes. Many metalheads know the Posočje region for its festivals, such as Metal Days and Tolminator. Additionally, Predjama Castle is a stunning historical site. Slovenia is truly a place where inspiration can be found everywhere.

Finally, what’s next for Cvinger in 2025? Any big plans or projects in the works?

We will be releasing a new album this year, and our main focus is on that. Currently, we have two concerts scheduled in February in Brno, Czechia, at the Heathen Strike Fest, and one concert in Austria in May. If we have any additional concerts, we will keep you updated on our social media accounts.