
Gjero Krsteski, the German guitarist of the rising extreme metal band GREH, stands at the forefront of the band’s uncompromising and darkly evocative sound. Known for his intricate riffs and atmospheric playing style, Krsteski plays a pivotal role in shaping GREH’s musical identity, blending elements of blackened death metal with haunting melodies and crushing intensity. With their highly anticipated new album "Dysphoric Devotion", Krsteski and his bandmates are set to push the boundaries of their sound even further, crafting a record that is as emotionally raw as it is musically complex. In this interview, we delve into Krsteski’s journey as a guitarist, his influences, and the creative process behind "Dysphoric Devotion". We also discuss the challenges of being a vegan band on tour and a little-known story!
INTERVIEW
OBNUBIL: Hi Gjero! I really appreciate you taking the time for this interview. Before we jump into the music, I’d love to hear how things have been for you lately. Have you finished the year 2024 well and started the new one with strength? Are there any recent events, personal milestones, or shifts in your life that have influenced your perspective or sparked new ideas in your creative process?
GJERO: Hi Jaqueline! Thanks for having me. The year has been a whirlwind of activity, culminating in the final touches on 'Dysphoric Devotion.' It's been a period of intense focus and dedication, but also a time of personal growth. I've been trying to cultivate a more mindful approach to life, finding balance amidst the chaos. This renewed sense of self-awareness has definitely seeped into my songwriting, adding another layer of introspection to the music.
OBNUBIL: Let's first go back to the beginning of your musical journey. What was the first song or band that made you pick up the guitar, and how has that influence stayed with you throughout your career? Growing up, was there a particular cultural or musical tradition from Germany—or elsewhere—that shaped your approach to music?
GJERO: I vividly remember hearing Sepultura's 'Roots' at a young age. That album blew my mind! The raw energy, the tribal rhythms, and the aggressive yet melodic guitar work completely captivated me. It ignited a fire within me, and I knew I had to learn to play. Growing up, I was heavily influenced by the German and American metal scene, particularly the bands that emerged from the 90s and early 2000s. There was a strong emphasis on heaviness and atmosphere, which has undoubtedly shaped my own approach to songwriting.
OBNUBIL: GREH was founded by you in 2022 and started as a one-man project. One year later, in 2023, it became a full-fledged band; together with Maurice Müller and Martin Kocula. On March 31, 2023, the digital debut EP "Reversion Of The Repressed" was released with five songs, which stylistically represent a mixture of black and death metal with doom elements, combining sadness and heaviness with groove and dissonance. If you were to describe GREH’s discography/biography as a journey, what would be its starting point, major crossroads, and ultimate destination?
GJERO: The journey began with the raw, introspective explorations of the one-man project, a period of self-discovery through music. The formation of the full band marked a significant crossroads, injecting new energy and dynamics into the sound. The release of "Reversion Of The Repressed" was a pivotal moment, a statement of intent and a testament to the band's burgeoning identity. Ultimately, the destination is an ongoing exploration of sonic and emotional landscapes, pushing the boundaries of heaviness and pushing ourselves as musicians.
OBNUBIL: The band’s name, GREH, feels ominous and enigmatic. What does it symbolize for you personally, and how does it reflect the band’s identity?
GJERO: The name GREH is unique and has a special meaning for us as a band. It's an old word from a forgotten language that means 'deadly sin'. When we started the band, we wanted a name that reflected our music and our message. Blackened death metal is a genre that often deals with dark and heavy themes, and we felt the name GREH fit perfectly. It represents the rage in our music, but also the strength and determination we have as band members. It's a constant reminder to us that even in the darkest of times, there is strength to be found.
OBNUBIL: Your new album "Dysphoric Devotion" has been released on January 15th, 2025! An 8-song album that I have already had the pleasure of listening to in advance before the release and for which I want to congratulate you, I liked it so much that I listened to it straight through 3 times in a row! The title "Dysphoric Devotion" is both intriguing and evocative. What’s the central theme or message behind the album, and how does it reflect the current state of GREH’s musical and personal evolution?
GJERO: Thank you! We're incredibly excited to finally share it with the world. "Dysphoric Devotion" delves into the complexities of human existence – the constant struggle between light and shadow, the yearning for connection amidst alienation, and the enduring power of destructive impulses. It reflects a deeper exploration of the themes touched upon in "Reversion Of The Repressed," with a more nuanced and mature approach to songwriting and a heavier, more atmospheric sound.
OBNUBIL: How did the concept for "Dysphoric Devotion" come to life? Was it a singular idea or a collection of inspirations that evolved over time? And what do you hope "Dysphoric Devotion" will add to GREH’s legacy and the broader metal landscape?
GJERO: The concept developed organically from a collection of personal experiences and observations. The title itself sums up the core message of the album: a twisted form of devotion to the darker sides of our being. We hope that ‘Dysphoric Devotion’ will resonate with listeners who can identify with its raw emotionality and relentless exploration of the human condition. Our goal is to contribute to the evolution of heavy music and push the boundaries of what is possible within the genre. We may have succeeded, but that's for the listeners to decide.
OBNUBIL: How did the recording process for "Dysphoric Devotion" differ from your previous albums? Did you experiment with any new techniques or setups? What’s the most experimental or surprising element you’ve incorporated into "Dysphoric Devotion" compared to your previous work?
GJERO: The recording process for ‘Dysphoric Devotion’ was a more collaborative endeavour. Each of us spent a lot of time in the home studio experimenting with different sounds and textures and pushing the boundaries of our instrumental abilities. We employed some unconventional recording techniques, such as experimenting with unconventional microphone placements. One of the most experimental elements is the inclusion of atmospheric soundscapes and textural layers that create a more intense and dynamic listening experience.
OBNUBIL: Did any unexpected challenges or changes arise during the creation of "Dysphoric Devotion", and how did you overcome them?
GJERO: There were definitely challenges along the way. The creative process can be unpredictable, and there were times when we hit creative roadblocks. For example, Martin the singer had a vocal block because he was learning a new vocal technique that would damage his voice in the long run. We had to wait a few weeks until he felt better. And we were very worried about whether he would be able to sing well again and, of course, whether we would be able to finish the album. But we faced these obstacles with patience and perseverance. We took breaks, revisited old ideas and experimented with new approaches. Ultimately, these challenges helped us grow as musicians and strengthened our cohesion as a band.
OBNUBIL: Can you share a specific song from the album that holds deep significance for you, and why? Are there any particular riffs you’re especially proud of?
GJERO: That's a difficult question! Every song on the album has a special place in my heart. But if I had to choose one, it would be ‘Enter My Oblivion’ because I'm coming to terms with a very difficult episode in my life. The main riff in this song is particularly memorable. It's heavy, catchy and incredibly satisfying when you play it live.
OBNUBIL: Please tell us about the creation of the artwork for the new album! I think Aaron Bonogofsky has created a very powerful and wonderful piece of work for you. Was it all his doing or was the band involved in the creative process?
GJERO: We were fortunate to collaborate with Aaron Bonogofsky from Canada on the album artwork. We provided him with some initial concepts and ideas, but ultimately, we trusted his artistic vision. He captured the essence of "Dysphoric Devotion" perfectly, creating a visually stunning and thought-provoking piece that complements the music perfectly.
OBNUBIL: What’s a hidden or little-known story about GREH that fans would be surprised to hear?
GJERO: That's a good one! I'm actually a big fan of Roxette. Although their music is very different from the music we do with GREH, I find their melodies catchy and their lyrics inspiring. Their music reminds me that there are no boundaries in music and that you can draw inspiration from many different sources. It's always good to have a broad musical spectrum and I'm proud that I don't limit my musical preferences to one genre.
OBNUBIL: In your tech stage rider you mention that during your shows lighting should be kept generally dark and you prefer the use of only floor lighting if possible, no ceiling lighting and a lot of fog. Can you give us the reasons for these decisions?
GJERO: We believe that the visual aspect of our live performance is just as important as the music itself. We aim to create an immersive and atmospheric experience for the audience. The use of floor lighting and fog helps to create a sense of depth and mystery, while the darkness allows the music to take center stage.
OBNUBIL: If you could play a GREH concert in any historical site in Germany, where would it be, and how would that setting influence the performance?
GJERO: That's a fascinating question! I think it would be incredible to play a concert at the Berlin Wall Memorial. The historical significance of that location would add another layer of depth and meaning to the performance. The music would resonate with the echoes of the past, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
OBNUBIL: Also, in your band rider you include the detail of "vegan food for three", from which I draw the pleasant conclusion that you are vegan like me. Germany has a strong vegan culture with plenty of plant-based options. How do you compare the vegan food scene in Germany to other places you’ve played or visited? Any favorite countries or surprising discoveries? How do you balance sticking to your vegan principles with the realities of being on the road?
GJERO: Yes, we prefer to eat vegan at concerts. Germany definitely has a thriving vegan food scene. It's constantly evolving, with new restaurants and cafes popping up all the time. I've been particularly impressed by the vegan food scenes in cities like Berlin and Hamburg. However, I've also had some amazing vegan meals in unexpected places, like some of the smaller towns we've played in. Balancing veganism with the realities of touring can be challenging at times, but it's definitely possible. Martin always does research beforehand and tries to connect with local vegans for recommendations.
OBNUBIL: Touring as a vegan can sometimes be challenging. If you were to create the perfect ‘tour survival kit’ for a vegan musician, what would you include? Is there one vegan food or product you always pack in your suitcase?
GJERO: A good vegan tour survival kit would definitely include some essentials like: Versatile plant-based protein sources: Things like nuts, seeds, and plant-based protein bars can be lifesavers when access to decent vegan food is limited. Quick and easy snacks: Trail mix, dried fruit, and energy bars are always handy to have on hand. A good quality travel mug: This is essential for staying hydrated and enjoying hot beverages. One vegan product I always pack is a good quality vegan cheese. It's surprisingly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.
OBNUBIL: How has being vegan shaped your overall perspective on life, and do you feel it impacts your music or creativity in any way?
GJERO: Being vegan has had a profound impact on my life. It's made me more aware of the interconnectedness of all living beings and has instilled in me a greater sense of compassion and empathy. I believe this has definitely influenced my music. My music is a reflection of my values and my worldview.
OBNUBIL: About perspectives on life. What role does music play in how you make sense of the challenges and complexities of life? Is there a specific life lesson that your career in music has taught you that you might not have learned otherwise?
GJERO: Music has always been a powerful tool for me in processing emotions and making sense of the world. It allows me to express myself in ways that words alone cannot. Music has taught me the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the power of collaboration. It has also taught me the importance of staying true to myself and my artistic vision.
OBNUBIL: To reach an end to our interview, let’s dive into your music collection: What are the three albums that hold the most significance for you, the ones you'd keep close in any situation? And what are the three best underground records you've come across lately?
GJERO: This is a tough one, but here are three albums that have had a profound impact on me: Sepultura - Roots: As mentioned earlier, this album ignited my passion for music. Neurosis - Times of Grace: This album is a masterpiece of atmospheric and emotionally intense music. Converge - Jane Doe: This album is a testament to the power of raw emotion and sonic intensity. Three underground records I've been digging lately: Vertebra Atlantis - Lustral Purge In Cerulean Bliss: Their music has a depth and complexity that always fascinates me and they have had a huge influence on my own musical style. Blood Incantation - Absolute Elsewhere: This album is my album of the year, because it manages to fuse metal with fusion. Ascension - Under Ether: This is the album I've listened to the most in 2024, because for me it perfectly combines black metal with anger and atmosphere. Every time I listen to it I discover new aspects that inspire me.
OBNUBIL: It’s been a pleasure being able to ask you a few questions and learning more about your journey! Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Is there anything you’d like to share with the readers and your fans?
GJERO: Thank you so much for your insightful questions! And thank you for taking so much time for the album. We are incredibly excited to finally unleash ‘Dysphoric Devotion’ on the world. We hope you enjoy the album as much as we enjoyed working on it. We can't wait to share it with you live on tour. We'll see you again soon!
Interview done January 2025. Promo photos by Jan-Niclas Schneider.