Interview with IRA NOCTIS
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IRA NOCTIS is a relatively young project that began in September 2022 but has quickly gained recognition among fans of the alternative music scene. Blending elements of Dark Electro, Industrial, EBM, and Aggrotech, the band captivates listeners with raw energy, profound lyrics, and a unique creative vision led by its charismatic founder. In this interview, Kamil Zaradkiewicz reveals the inspirations fueling his work, discusses the challenges and values behind his music and lyrics, and shares plans for the future of the project. Step into a world full of darkness, rebellion, and a search for deeper meaning.
IRA NOCTIS is a relatively new project that began in September 2022. Can you share the inspiration or spark that led you to create this project?
IRA NOCTIS: I’d be delighted to share that story! But before I do – I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to give this interview and present some facts and insights:) Going back to the question – one evening during Castle Party, I had a conversation with the wonderful team from HER OWN WORLD, whom I send my warm regards and whom I can confidently call my musical godparents and mentors. Even though we hadn’t known each other long, we immediately clicked. Their attitude, the path they’ve traveled, and the legacy of the legendary reactor7x became an inspiration for me to bring this project to life. I also received strong encouragement from my greatest fan – my amazing wife, who pushed me to pursue this when I was still hesitating, as well as my friend Wojtas, who was present at the project’s inception, lending an ear and often offering good advice.
In your lyrics, you explore themes like darkness, rebellion, and existential struggles. Who or what are your biggest influences – both musical and philosophical – shaping your songwriting?
IRA NOCTIS: My biggest influences are my personal experiences and what’s happening in the world today. In a way, I’m expressing what’s boiling inside me, while also commenting on reality and encouraging reflection. I don’t need to convey a message to everyone; sometimes, I’m simply providing entertainment. Above all, I want my fans to have a great time, which I think I’m achieving more and more:) When it comes to musical influences, I draw inspiration from bands like Hocico, Suicide Commando, Psyclon Nine, H.EXE, and reactor7x, but my goal is to do this in my own way, with my own musical DNA.
Your song "Break the Chains" explores themes of rebellion and inner darkness. Can you share more about the emotions and personal experiences that inspired this song?
IRA NOCTIS: In "Break," I’m condemning the "step on others to get ahead" mentality, where people are willing to stab someone in the back for their own benefit – often, even their loved ones. Many of us, unfortunately, have experienced this, and I’m no exception. As the saying goes, "if you have a good heart, you need a tough skin." Such an attitude eventually becomes oppressive, turning a person into a slave to their ambitions. Liberation from that burden brings relief both to them and to those around them.
The lyrics of "The Serpent" delve into issues of power, greed, and moral dilemmas. What message or societal reflection did you want to convey through this song?
IRA NOCTIS: "The Serpent" encourages reflection on how often we metaphorically "sign a pact" and give everything in exchange for money, the illusion of power, and popularity, losing ourselves for the applause of false people, material luxuries, and the so-called "success" that ultimately costs us dearly.
IRA NOCTIS blends genres such as Dark Electro, Industrial, EBM, and Aggrotech. What draws you to these specific musical styles, and how do they reflect your creative vision?
IRA NOCTIS: My fascination started many years ago when I first heard Suicide Commando – and I was hooked! After that, it all snowballed – Hocico, Tactical Sekt, Agonoize, H.EXE, and reactor7x. I was captivated by the combination of darkness and aggression with a powerful message, underpinned by energetic, danceable beats. It’s like dark poetry with a pulsating rhythm, moving both the mind and the body ;)
Your project also places a strong emphasis on visual elements, such as distinctive album covers. What’s the thought process behind your cover designs, and how do they complement the themes of your music?
IRA NOCTIS: At first, I acted intuitively, matching graphics to the theme of each track. But as I gained experience, I started using symbolism and subtle references to give the covers a deeper dimension.
You recently mentioned a collaboration with Kacper Rice on your second project, Lunar Hex. How did this partnership come about, and how does Lunar Hex differ from IRA NOCTIS, or how do they complement each other?
IRA NOCTIS: Kacper and I have been friends for some time, and since I enjoy working with people I get along with, I suggested a project with a strong, goth and harsh vocal vibe. Initially, it was supposed to be IRA with vocals alternating between Kacper and me, but it turned into a new project. Lunar Hex is fully-fledged darkwave – cold, raw, with darkness seeping from every note, wrapped in black and white, with deep vocals striking the deepest tones of our dark souls.
You also have a track on the compilation "Behold! That is Industrial! VOL. 1." What does it feel like to be recognized alongside other industrial artists, and what was the process of joining this compilation?
IRA NOCTIS: It’s an absolutely fantastic feeling! This compilation showcases lesser-known artists and gives them a chance to reach a wider audience. The project was initiated by Peter from ʜᴇxᴠʜꜱ, who invited various bands to join in mutual promotion. I highly recommend this compilation – it’s a great opportunity to discover hidden gems that people wouldn’t normally come across.
As a solo artist managing all aspects of IRA NOCTIS, from vocals to production, how do you balance creative freedom with the challenges of wearing many hats?
IRA NOCTIS: In the beginning, it was tough, and my music was very stripped down compared to what I release now. Each new element was a challenge and a milestone that pushed me forward. I also try to listen to advice from more experienced people. Today, I can create exactly what I plan on every level, which once felt unimaginable. It’s a matter of organization and gaining experience. The pleasure and satisfaction it brings are immense, especially when I think of how much I’ve learned over time, not only in music.
What are your future plans for IRA NOCTIS? Can fans expect upcoming releases, collaborations, or live performances soon?
IRA NOCTIS: Absolutely! I’m constantly recording new material and planning to release an album in the coming year, along with some EPs along the way. As for collaborations and live performances – they’re in the planning stages, and I’ll share more information as soon as I can:)
https://www.facebook.com/iranoctis.official
foto: Malwina Zaradkiewicz
IRA NOCTIS is a relatively new project that began in September 2022. Can you share the inspiration or spark that led you to create this project?
IRA NOCTIS: I’d be delighted to share that story! But before I do – I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to give this interview and present some facts and insights:) Going back to the question – one evening during Castle Party, I had a conversation with the wonderful team from HER OWN WORLD, whom I send my warm regards and whom I can confidently call my musical godparents and mentors. Even though we hadn’t known each other long, we immediately clicked. Their attitude, the path they’ve traveled, and the legacy of the legendary reactor7x became an inspiration for me to bring this project to life. I also received strong encouragement from my greatest fan – my amazing wife, who pushed me to pursue this when I was still hesitating, as well as my friend Wojtas, who was present at the project’s inception, lending an ear and often offering good advice.
In your lyrics, you explore themes like darkness, rebellion, and existential struggles. Who or what are your biggest influences – both musical and philosophical – shaping your songwriting?
IRA NOCTIS: My biggest influences are my personal experiences and what’s happening in the world today. In a way, I’m expressing what’s boiling inside me, while also commenting on reality and encouraging reflection. I don’t need to convey a message to everyone; sometimes, I’m simply providing entertainment. Above all, I want my fans to have a great time, which I think I’m achieving more and more:) When it comes to musical influences, I draw inspiration from bands like Hocico, Suicide Commando, Psyclon Nine, H.EXE, and reactor7x, but my goal is to do this in my own way, with my own musical DNA.
Your song "Break the Chains" explores themes of rebellion and inner darkness. Can you share more about the emotions and personal experiences that inspired this song?
IRA NOCTIS: In "Break," I’m condemning the "step on others to get ahead" mentality, where people are willing to stab someone in the back for their own benefit – often, even their loved ones. Many of us, unfortunately, have experienced this, and I’m no exception. As the saying goes, "if you have a good heart, you need a tough skin." Such an attitude eventually becomes oppressive, turning a person into a slave to their ambitions. Liberation from that burden brings relief both to them and to those around them.
The lyrics of "The Serpent" delve into issues of power, greed, and moral dilemmas. What message or societal reflection did you want to convey through this song?
IRA NOCTIS: "The Serpent" encourages reflection on how often we metaphorically "sign a pact" and give everything in exchange for money, the illusion of power, and popularity, losing ourselves for the applause of false people, material luxuries, and the so-called "success" that ultimately costs us dearly.
IRA NOCTIS blends genres such as Dark Electro, Industrial, EBM, and Aggrotech. What draws you to these specific musical styles, and how do they reflect your creative vision?
IRA NOCTIS: My fascination started many years ago when I first heard Suicide Commando – and I was hooked! After that, it all snowballed – Hocico, Tactical Sekt, Agonoize, H.EXE, and reactor7x. I was captivated by the combination of darkness and aggression with a powerful message, underpinned by energetic, danceable beats. It’s like dark poetry with a pulsating rhythm, moving both the mind and the body ;)
Your project also places a strong emphasis on visual elements, such as distinctive album covers. What’s the thought process behind your cover designs, and how do they complement the themes of your music?
IRA NOCTIS: At first, I acted intuitively, matching graphics to the theme of each track. But as I gained experience, I started using symbolism and subtle references to give the covers a deeper dimension.
You recently mentioned a collaboration with Kacper Rice on your second project, Lunar Hex. How did this partnership come about, and how does Lunar Hex differ from IRA NOCTIS, or how do they complement each other?
IRA NOCTIS: Kacper and I have been friends for some time, and since I enjoy working with people I get along with, I suggested a project with a strong, goth and harsh vocal vibe. Initially, it was supposed to be IRA with vocals alternating between Kacper and me, but it turned into a new project. Lunar Hex is fully-fledged darkwave – cold, raw, with darkness seeping from every note, wrapped in black and white, with deep vocals striking the deepest tones of our dark souls.
You also have a track on the compilation "Behold! That is Industrial! VOL. 1." What does it feel like to be recognized alongside other industrial artists, and what was the process of joining this compilation?
IRA NOCTIS: It’s an absolutely fantastic feeling! This compilation showcases lesser-known artists and gives them a chance to reach a wider audience. The project was initiated by Peter from ʜᴇxᴠʜꜱ, who invited various bands to join in mutual promotion. I highly recommend this compilation – it’s a great opportunity to discover hidden gems that people wouldn’t normally come across.
As a solo artist managing all aspects of IRA NOCTIS, from vocals to production, how do you balance creative freedom with the challenges of wearing many hats?
IRA NOCTIS: In the beginning, it was tough, and my music was very stripped down compared to what I release now. Each new element was a challenge and a milestone that pushed me forward. I also try to listen to advice from more experienced people. Today, I can create exactly what I plan on every level, which once felt unimaginable. It’s a matter of organization and gaining experience. The pleasure and satisfaction it brings are immense, especially when I think of how much I’ve learned over time, not only in music.
What are your future plans for IRA NOCTIS? Can fans expect upcoming releases, collaborations, or live performances soon?
IRA NOCTIS: Absolutely! I’m constantly recording new material and planning to release an album in the coming year, along with some EPs along the way. As for collaborations and live performances – they’re in the planning stages, and I’ll share more information as soon as I can:)
https://www.facebook.com/iranoctis.official
foto: Malwina Zaradkiewicz
