Interviews: Vacua

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Black Metal band, Vacua, from Italy. Check out the interview and follow this band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name? Did you plan it, or did it come out naturally?

“Vacua” came up almost instantly. It’s Latin for “empty things,” representing the idea that all phenomena are empty of intrinsic reality. This concept is crucial for us, as it allows us to explore our deepest negativities without giving them objective meaning.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

We’ve all always been drawn to Black Metal. It’s a unique genre that lets your spirit unleash despair and suffering without compromise. Elathon came up with some main riffs, Furor Ferox suggested forming a Black Metal band, and Aerifer and Exanimis were immediately on board. Former bassist Eyded joined right after. 

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

Yes, we’ve known each other for years — around six before forming the band. Some of us were close friends already, which made the process smoother and ensured our personalities could work together in a project.

4. Each band member’s favorite band?

Furor Ferox: Satyricon

Elathon: Urfaust

Exanimis: Rotting Christ

Aerifer: Black Sabbath

Sumvir: Pentagram

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

We draw inspiration from personal experiences, mundane decadence, and the sacrality of Nature. That’s why we often retreat to the woods as a band — to find inspiration and escape the crowded streets of Rome.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was in Rome, opening for Svart Vinter’s release party for their latest album.

7. Where would you like to play?

We’d love to play in Japan. We already have a connection there through our label, and our album CDs will be released with full Japanese packaging, including obi-strips.

8. Who would you like to feature with?

We’d like to feature Begotten and Cult of Fire. They’re both modern bands we greatly respect and look up to.

9. Who would you NOT want to feature with?

Probably someone like Lady Gaga — our burlap sacks might not match her fashion standards… or maybe they would?

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners?

Some of us experienced stage fright when playing live for the first time — not as Vacua, but in other projects. We all started young, around 15. It’s normal for beginners; only experience can dissolve fear. Nowadays, none of us suffers from stage fright, though stage anxiety can still serve as a useful adrenaline boost.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Ulver (early), Rotting Christ, Uada, Sigh, and Batushka are our main influences today.

12. What’s the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you?

Probably not the weirdest overall, but once a fan asked one of us to remove the sack while still on stage. Do not do it, folks.

13. What do you think of your fans?

We don’t see them as “fans,” just people who witness the same decay as we do. 

14. What do you think of our site?

Breathing The Core is one of the few sites that genuinely supports the underground. They treat bands with respect and give attention where it’s due — we’re honored to be featured. We particularly appreciate the “Behind the Artworks” format, as cover art is often overlooked, yet it’s as much a part of the album as the music itself.

15. Anything to add?

We salute all readers of Breathing The Core and invite them to continue supporting the underground. Follow us on our socials to stay updated on our ritualistic chaos.