1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?
Axioma was formed in Cleveland originally by Cyril and I, Jon joined soon after and after several vocalists Aaron joined on bass and vocals. From Cyril's original guitar ideas we started building a sound that we feel is unique but contains our individual musical views.
2.In July you had released an ep, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?
"Opia" is a mixture of darker themed music. We defer to the listener on the sound. I don't think any of us are very concerned with labels, though I would think most compare us with death and post metal bands.
3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
"Opia" while not a concept album has some particular themes that run through the songs. `Opia' has been described as the intensity of emotion, even sorrow you receive from looking directly into someone's eyes. In general the songs deal with fear, mental confusion or illness and even the uniquely human weakness to create gods. I think many can relate to what we produce but they are not the most comfortable ideas nor do we want them to be.
4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Axioma'?
Axioma can mean a self-evident truth; we feel that the name works well with the lyrical themes.
5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?
We've had the chance to play with Primitive man, Dragged into Sunlight, Ringworm, Punching Moses, Scientist, Withered, Immortal Bird, Amorphis among others recently. As far as stage performance I like to think that we are direct in our delivery Axioma was not meant to stay in a studio or practice room.
6.Do you have any touring or show plans for the future?
Currently, we have some dates in Cleveland and Pittsburgh booked with Detroit black metal band Fell Ruin in May and a date with Gorguts at the Agora Cleveland in June. After those dates we are planning to play out of Cleveland more.
7.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
We have the `Opia' ep released on cassette format through Tartarus records in Europe as a limited pressing. We've have had some additional conversations with other parties and are deciding how we will proceed. Currently we are preparing another set of songs.
8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of black and dark metal?
We have had a good response to the material so far particularly from places, such as Europe, that seem to have an appreciation for our approach.
9.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that some of the band members are a part of?
Some of the Axioma's members play in Forged in Flame for whom we just finished recording a new record out this year. I have some rough plans for Aureae Crucis and a new project called Ose that should be available this year in physical formats. Jon Vinson will also be releasing an album with his grind band Jesus Egg. Aaron has some upcoming dates in support of Gwar with Brain Tentacles that are not to be missed along with their latest self-titled album. Most of us stay fairly active beyond Axioma.
10.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
Likely our next set of songs will be an entire album. I think you'll see some new themes but the approach will be the same direction; heavy, dark and aggressive music.
11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Musically we've all played in multiple genres so we pull from those experiences including everything from movie soundtracks to experimental music. Right now I feel there is a much-needed fragmentation in music and the way people discover it, this has been giving musicians more room to challenge and push their sound. In a time when we are constantly monitored, marginalized by wealth and subjugated by a fear based media we have a unique opportunity to challenge that situation with opposing viewpoints. Lately, albums by Oranssi Pazuzu, Spectral Lore, Bloodiest, Lustmord and the excellent Throane from France come to mind.
12.What are some of your non musical interests?
Outside of music I also create graphic illustrations and help run a site called darartandcraft.com that mainly highlights dark themed painting and artwork.
13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
We appreciate Occult Black Metal Zine for your time.
Thank you,