Interview with REVELATOR
!!!CANADIAN HELLISH BLACK/DEATH METAL!!!
Welcome to the FILTHY DOGS OF METAL Webzine.
Tell us a bit about REVELATOR - its members, founding year, and background.
Filthy Dogs of Metal, Revelator extends its gratitude to scribe these words. Conceived in 2017 as a recording covenant between The Iconoclastic and The Heretic, the sigil was first cast with two self-released demos in 2018 and 2019—both quickly vanishing into the hands of the devout. As the vision deepened, so too did the vessel: three like-minded spirits—The Heathen, The Incantor, and The Reaver—were summoned, forging Revelator into a five-headed entity prepared for both stage and further sonic invocation.
You're about to release your debut album ''Light the Devil’s Fire''. What can you share with us about this project.
The forging of this opus began in January MMXXIV, amidst personal trials and forced exiles—but the Iron Will remains unbroken. This album stands as a hymn to the riff: each track a spellbound union of black metal mysticism and regal triumph, carved with intent and consecrated in fire. Revelator undoubtedly evidenced no opposing force will halt hellish determination. The release date is September 12 and pre-orders are open at Nameless Grave Records.
The cover artwork has a killer atmosphere! What’s the story behind it?
Blessed Be is Revelator to have access to an incredibly talented artist, Spiraledvision (who IS open to commissions and can be found on Instagram) who infernally captured our vision by animating the lyrics to He Who Reveals Grand Wisdom which tells the tale of hooded ghouls who dwell in a dark, northern wood, hellbent on usurping the realm of a weak and Christian society.
Let’s talk about the lyrics - what themes or messages do you explore?
Revelator’s lyrics tell tales of evil specters and devilish creatures, witches who dance under full moon necromancy, and those who reign with the devil, labouring not in pain but triumphing in power and hellish glory.
What are the main differences between your first two demos, ''Revelator'' and ''Revelator II'', and your upcoming album?
Our demo tapes were raw revelations—foundational offerings of intent. The new album, however, is a fully realized rite: sonically refined through powerful alliances with Rob Lawless/Lawless Recordings, Derek Orthner Audio, and Drew Copland/Vector Sound, yet still seething with venom. The songwriting now leans heavily into triumphant black metal riffcraft—clearer, crueler, and more commanding in its occult dominion.
How did your collaboration with Nameless Grave Records come about? Do you prefer working with a label or going the DIY route - and why?
I had contacted Nameless Grave Records shortly after the release of our second demo as I admired the label’s work ethic and pedigree. We light a candle in the honor of Nameless Grave Records; unwavering professionalism and dedication to genuine heavy fucking metal! HAIL! As our members are in our mid 40’s or beyond and do have alternate obligations outside of music, it is logical to have label support to be certain particular promotional aspects are handled efficiently.
Do you have any funny or unusual stories from your recording sessions or live shows you'd like to share?
All clandestine acts must remain veiled to ensure their reoccurrence. The members of Revelator have been entrenched in Black Fucking Metal since the 1990s—not as a pastime, but as a lifelong oath to a perilous path. This is not music for comfort; it is a manifestation of will, forged through decades of brotherhood, chaos, and incriminating allegiance. When our hooves plant on Greek soil, we can discuss in person to great detail. Hail Satan!
Which format do you prefer - vinyl, tape, CD, or digital - and why?
Each format serves its purpose within the grand ritual. Vinyl and cassette carry a potent nostalgia—relics of initiation for those of us forged in the fires of the '80s and '90s. CDs offer durability and breadth, while digital, though soulless, provides global reach—an undeniable tool if wielded with intention. True sovereignty lies in embracing all mediums without being enslaved by any.
Your music blends Black and Death Metal. Who are your main influences - favorite artists or bands?
This is challenging as I have been wildly obsessed with metal since the late 1980’s and continue to be charged by tried-and-true classics and new discoveries. Pertinent to Revelator and what shapes our sound, influence comes from bands whose dominant characteristic is the massive riffs. such as early Bathory, Venom and Mercyful Fate, early Darkthrone, Mayhem, Gorgoroth, Razor, early Morbid Angel and Carcass, Beherit, Necromantia, Master’s Hammer, Nifelheim, Absu, Desaster, Mortuary Drape, Destroyer666, Gospel of the Horns, Goatvomit, Sabbat, Destruktor…the list is endless! New releases that I have sunk my fangs into Veneraxiom’s Apocryphilia, Ninkharsag’s The Black Swords of Winter, and Naumachy’s Sorrowful Clouds and Ancient Elegies (GREECE)!
What do you think a band must sacrifice to succeed? Have you personally sacrificed anything for the future of REVELATOR?
To succeed as a black metal entity, one must possess more than musical conviction—one must wield inner fortitude. The path is not solely paved with riffs and visions, but with the tempered ability to navigate discord among wills. Just as within any true occult order, equilibrium is maintained through discipline, tolerance, and strategic diplomacy. Ego must serve the Work, not obstruct it. Harmony among chaos is where real power dwells.
Describe your ideal live show as a performing band. Have you experienced something close to that yet?
The ideal live ritual remains an elusive vision—one as grand as the arcane themes we summon, and perhaps only achievable with a budget rivaling Dio’s Sacred Heart spectacle. Yet, in the absence of animated ghouls and pyrotechnic grandeur, true fulfillment arises when the veil thins and devoted black metal initiates fully meld with our energy. In those moments, the rite is complete.
What are your thoughts on the rise of AI in music production?
AI is the prologue to the eradication of human expression, be it artistic expression or otherwise. The issue being that AI is a useful tool in some applications, but revolutionary innovations have and will always be exploited to a degree in which adverse consequence ripples through all facets of man’s existence.
In your opinion, what qualities should a new Black/Death Metal band have to stand out and develop a unique identity?
This is dependent on the intent. In all my years of creating this style of music, never have I tried to reinvent the wheel. I don’t want to exaggerate and describe Revelator as derivative, but our influences, as listed above, are just that. Influences. Black Metal should remain as such, within reason and Black Metal, inherently, is not overly unique. Also, persistence. So many local bands in Edmonton last a few years and disappear. Technology is now so accessible that anyone can record something and ‘release’ it. With this comes mass oversaturation. Hone your kraft, don’t falter in the face of adversity, and do not settle for mediocrity.
Do you believe digital platforms help new Black/Death Metal bands? What do you think is the most effective way for a band to promote its work today?
Of course, media is immediately available globally upon it’s release. The process is now far more streamlined as it is no longer sent through mail. Honestly, as touched on prior, with the over saturation of bands and staggering amount of music that is instantly obtainable, playing live and touring will set you apart. An impassioned and violent live performance that will leave a lasting impact. These organic methods are tried and true. I speak from experience, not opinion.
Based on your experience in the music industry, what advice would you give to a new Black/Death Metal band - what to do and what to avoid?
To attain true success, as you yourself define success, one must tread the path carved by their own Will—unyielding and unpolluted. Those who mimic the visions of others walk as shades, lacking spirit and sovereignty. Black metal is not a ladder to earthly acclaim, but a vessel of gnosis and devotion—only the sincere endure.
Tell us about the underground metal scene in Edmonton, Alberta - bands, fanzines, webzines, metal clubs, etc.
Edmonton is notorious for legendary Black, Death, and Thrash metal bands. Classic albums highly recommended if you’ve yet to discover: Disciples of Power – Power Trap, + entire discography, Sacramentary Abolishment – River of Corticone + entire discography, Begrime Exemious entire discography, Anthrodynia – Unspeakable Horrors Emanating From Within, Antediluvian entire discography, Lust – Genesis of a Satanic Race +entire discography, Black Death Cult entire discography, Grand Mal – Oblivion Sermons, Idolatry – Pyrrhic + entire discography. Also, our neighbouring Province, British Columbia, is cursed to home Empty Chalice who I devotedly salute! I’m sure I unintentionally omitted a band or album.
What does metal mean to you personally? And name 10 metal albums that run in your veins.
Metal, most particularly Black Metal, to me, is more than sound—it is a vessel of Will, rebellion, and sacred fire. For over three decades, it has been a spiritual forge, refining the Self through chaos and steel. It is the call of the abyss and the echo of the gods within. Selecting 10 albums is nearly impossible and this list is subject to change daily but, in no particular order, here goes: Bathory – S/T, Venom – Welcome to Hell, Razor – Evil Invaders, Nifelheim S/T & Devil’s Force, Mortuary Drape – All the Witches Dance & Secret Sudaria, Destroyer 666 – Unchain the Wolves, Necromantia – Scarlet Evil Witching Black, Desaster - Tyrants of the Netherworld, Iron Maiden – Killers and Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, Marduk – Heaven Shall Burn…., Dissection – Storm of the Light’s Bane, Sodom – Persecution Mania, Gorgoroth – Pentagram, Master’s Hammer – Ritual & Jilemnicky Okultista…..and ONE THOUSAND MORE! HAIL SATAN!
Are you familiar with the Hellenic metal scene? What are your thoughts on it?
Absolutely. The Greek scene is infamous for it’s atmospheric sound and focus on gargantuan riffs. The Greek style has certainly influenced Revelator and it’s originators are some of my First exposures to Black Metal in the early 1990’s. Bands such as Necromantia, Rotting Christ (of course), Varathron, Thou Art Lord, Goatvomit, Agatus, Zemial, Nergal, Order of the Ebon Hand, Legion of Doom, Wampyrinacht, Medieval Demon, Embrace of Thorns, Thy Darkened Shade, Burial Kult, Cult of Eibon…..the list is endless.
What are your future plans for REVELATOR?
The second album nears completion in terms of authoring, and a split conjuration with Empty Chalice shall be unearthed on cassette. Rituals upon the stage will increase in frequency, as our path of sonic desecration and unwavering devotion to the dark arts intensifies. The flame is far from spent.
Thank you very much for your time & keep up the good work! The closure is yours.
Once again, we extend infernal gratitude to you, Stavros and Filthy Dogs of Metal! Revelator is easily accessible at revelatorcanada@gmail.com,revelator_witching.metal.cult(Instagram),revelator2.bandzoogle.com,namelessgraverecords.com,revelator2bandcamp.com, on all streaming services, and in the mystic fog under full moon necromancy!
By Steve the Filthy Dog.