Lithuanian modern avant‑garde metal force Black Spikes continue their descent into humanity’s darkest impulses with “ZELVAR,” the latest single from their upcoming album Ydos, set for release on 28 August via Napalm Records. This time, the band turns its gaze toward greed, adding another chapter to the record’s conceptual exploration of human vices.
“ZELVAR” stands out as the only track on Ydos featuring English lyrics, offering a rare point of accessibility within an otherwise uncompromising sonic landscape. Musically, the song balances explosive, razor‑edged aggression with a surprisingly gentle and melodic chorus, creating a dynamic tension that mirrors the theme of insatiable desire. Raw fury, bleak atmosphere and a sense of creeping dread converge into a warning: never close your eyes on Black Spikes.
The band elaborates on the single’s narrative: “This song tells the story of Zelvar, the demon of greed, as he steps into the human world. Within a magnificent palace, those consumed by endless ambition gather, chasing ever greater wealth, power, and status. Yet the more they gain, the deeper they fall into his trap—thirsty, and forever unsatisfied. Greed is a vice that leaves the soul imprisoned and alone the moment you ‘close your eyes’ and surrender to its temptation. No matter how much you possess, it will never be enough.”
The accompanying video, crafted by Rokas Baškys (Lumetri House), visualises this descent with cinematic intensity. You can watch it below — and if you missed the previously released single “Revana”, its video remains available for viewing as well over HERE.
With Ydos, Black Spikes bring darkness in its most conceptual form. The album examines the flaws that shape human nature, weaving them into a modern progressive metal framework that acts as a complex mirror for the listener. Heavy, dark, atmospheric and philosophically charged, Ydos promises a journey where every vice has a voice — and every shadow hides a trap. Link
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"The whole thing for us with the lore we have created is inspired by Greek Mythology and the stories of Atlantis." - Phil Primmer
"It's a dark album. According to me, it's the darkest yet in our discography. It's also very suggestive, very introverted, less direct, and might be less friendly..." - Daniel Moilanen
"Art isn't meant to always be pretty and make us feel comfortable and good about ourselves. I'm not afraid to broach difficult emotions and to express the beautiful ones too." - Martin Saint
"This time we're trying not to complicate things too much. We want to have a simple message, but that doesn't mean there will be fewer arrangements or less songwriting..." - Pedro Paixão
