Arvo is a Belarusian black metal band that approaches music as a natural form of self-expression, drawing inspiration from nature, mythology, and philosophy. Alongside the dark ritual pagan folk project BIRKE, Voron and S.T. discuss their influences, creative process, and artistic vision.
Asmoth: For readers who may not be familiar with your work, could you introduce yourself and tell us how your musical journey began, eventually leading to the creation of Arvo and Birke?
Arvo: Our passion for music began in our early youth and continues to this day. It has been a completely natural path, one that has shaped who we are and brought us to this point in our development.
Asmoth: Arvo and Birke explore different musical territories, from black metal to dark ritual pagan folk. What inspires you to express yourself through these two distinct artistic approaches?
Arvo: We don’t compartmentalize our music into genres; it is born organically. We rely on our personal tastes and intuition, drawing inspiration primarily from nature, philosophy, and mythology. These are, perhaps, our main sources of inspiration.
Asmoth: What were the original ideas and goals behind the formation of Arvo, and how do you feel the band has evolved since its inception?
Arvo: The goal is very simple: self-expression through music. It is a way of understanding the world around us. It is simply a part of life!
Asmoth: Belarus has a unique cultural and historical heritage. How has your homeland influenced the atmosphere, themes, and identity of both Arvo and Birke?
Arvo: I believe our mentality is directly reflected in our music and our approach to arrangements. Furthermore, nature, landscapes, and the people around us have always had—and continue to have—a direct influence on our creative work.
Asmoth:The music of Birke evokes ancient traditions, rituals, and a strong connection to nature. What attracts you most to these themes, and how important are they in your personal life?
Birke: I've always been interested in history and felt a connection to my ancestors. What draws me to rites and rituals is the opportunity to immerse myself in a place where everything was open and pure. A place where people believed in what they saw!
Asmoth: Which musicians, bands, albums, or even non-musical sources have had the greatest influence on your artistic vision throughout the years?
Arvo: Classic black metal, extreme metal in general, a lot of rock, folk, and electronic music—there are absolutely no boundaries. We also draw from a wide spectrum of literature and visual arts. Ultimately, life itself is the primary source of inspiration and creative ideas.
Asmoth: Many artists today blend traditional elements with modern forms of extreme music. How do you approach the balance between authenticity, cultural heritage, and artistic experimentation?
Arvo: As I mentioned earlier, everything happens very naturally and organically. I start playing the instruments, and ideas are born—first as rough sketches, which then take on more finished forms, followed by arrangements, additional instruments, and so on. I don’t overanalyze; I just create.
Asmoth: Looking at the current underground black metal and dark folk scenes, what do you think has changed the most over the past decade, and what do you hope the future holds for these genres?
Arvo: We are witnessing technological advancement and the blending of genres, which is exactly how it should be in the postmodern era. We have no specific expectations or preconceived notions about it. We are simply walking our own path.
