California black metal outfit Sicarius recently released their sophomore album, God of Dead Roots, on March 13th. We caught up with bassist Carnage, guitarist Merihim, and vocalist K. Karcass to learn more about them and their new record. 

For those who are unfamiliar, can you talk more about Sicarius?

Carnage: Sicarius is a black metal band from southern California that was formed in 2014. Our name means contract killer or assassin in Latin and we draw influence from and pay homage to classic black metal bands, but inject a modern, bludgeoning and bloodthirsty extreme metal assault. We have performed all over the Southwest alongside bands like Carach Angren, Uada, 1349, Goatwhore, Vader, Master, Helheim, Sadistic Intent, Skeletal Remains, Wolvhammer, Sixes, Witch Casket and Tombs. In 2017, we signed with M-Theory Audio and released “Serenade of Slitting Throats” produced by Mick Kenney (Anaal Nathrakh, Benediction), who also produced our new album, “God of Dead Roots,” out March 13th on M-Theory Audio.

What was the process like recording the new album God of Dead Roots?

Merihim: We really took our time with this album, making sure it was a reflection of all of us.  Our writing process varies; some songs are written entirely as a group, other times one member will have an idea prepared and bring it to the rest of us for  input. Most of our songs are written when we all get together and bounce ideas off one another. There is no one person in our lineup who writes everything, Each of us has their unique way of bringing what needs to be brought to the table. 

How was it creating the lyric video for “BIA?”

Carnage: Pretty easy, we just sent our ideas the song/ lyrics to the guy we worked with on the “Serenade of Slitting Throats” video, David Thelen. He asked a few visual and theme questions and came back to us with a few test edits before we reached the final product.

Can you talk more about the song “Tombs?”

Karcass: Merihim came up with the guitar riffs and lyrical concept of “Tombs” saying he wanted it to be about someone being buried alive, so I just took that and ran with it. I kept  the concept of the fear and dread of realizing you’re stuck with literally no hope and added some occult horror and ritualistic themes as well.

Is there anything else you want to say or add about the album?

On a serious note this [God of Dead Roots] was a huge labor of love from everyone in the band. We all put massive amounts of time and effort into it  and we hope you all enjoy this vicious slab of sonic torture we’re about to unleash upon you all!