The evolution of metal has long spawned sub-genre after sub-genre, beginning with sound—metalcore, hardcore, deathcore, doom, industrial metal, slasher metal, death metal, black metal, etc.—and more recently, spanning different schools of thought. The fragmented genealogy of these sub-genres is at its most granular, making Christian-made black metal more common than ever before.
Black metal is far more philosophically diverse than most people realize, but despite the diversity, Christianity has always been a bit taboo in the black metal scene. However, bands like A Hill To Die Upon prove that it’s time for the black metal community to be honest: some of these Christian black metal bands are really, really good. Regardless of their faith, AHTDU have stood the test of time, producing consistent bangers with the talent and quality of their mainstream counterparts.
Recently, the band announced their signing to Mythic Panda Productions, and the only logical conclusion to draw is that new music may be on the horizon. We talked to drummer and vocalist Michael Cook to get the full story.
It’s been over 4 years since your last record, Via Artis Via Mortis, was released. On your social media, you recently announced that you signed with Mythic Panda Productions. Is it safe to assume that you have a new album coming out soon?
New material is on the way. We are extremely excited about the opportunities Mythic Panda is offering. Everyone says they are “pushing the boundaries” with their latest release. We’ve never liked that trope, but we are going to do things we’ve never dared before.
What can we expect from this new record?
“Record” is a strange word, isn’t it? I wouldn’t commit to that… it might be too small. We have something a bit bigger in mind. There will be multiple books involved, as well.
Is there a title and a projected release date?
The Black Nativity is the all-encompassing title. However, it will be preceded by others. The first taste should be out in the spring.
You have released four albums and one EP as a band so far. When people ask if you’re a black metal or a “blackened death metal” band, how do you typically respond?
There is an immense difference between a black metal band playing death metal and a death metal band playing black metal. Our new merch says “black metal?”
Are all of you still in Illinois, or is the band based elsewhere now?
Adam and Nolan still live in Illinois. I (Michael) live in Missouri because my other band, The Comancheros, is based there.
It’s no surprise to existing fans that you have always worn your faith on your sleeve in your music. How has faith played a role in your life, including on the upcoming album (if there is one)?
The magi will be the focus of the newest material. Our song “Adept in Divinity” started me down a thematic path that has utterly spiraled out of control. Several of us have been leaning towards orthodoxy in the last few years as well. That certainly changes one’s perspective.
Do you feel that the mainstream black metal scene has accepted you, or do you think the “Christian” tag has brought skepticism?
There has been little acceptance, but we played with Deicide a few years ago. They put on a great show. However, since there is no pressure to perform for the mainstream, it leaves us rather free to do what we want. As Crowley himself said, “Do what thou wilt.”
After seeing your recent picture with a black cat, I must ask: cats or dogs?
100% cats.
Are you planning a tour in the near future?
This next project is going to be extremely demanding. We will have to re-assess that question once everything is done.
I know this is a tough question, but if you had to pick, what bands/artists would you say have influenced you the most as a band?
Satyricon, 1349, Rotting Christ, and Behemoth. Recently, it has all been about Marduk and Stan Rogers.
How can fans best support you going into 2022?
Buy merch!
You can follow A Hill To Die Upon on Instagram and Facebook.
