We had a chat with Essyllt, keyboardist for Italian black metal veterans Adversam, about their new album Daimon. We also talked about how the metal scene has changed since 1995, what inspires her synth work, and her advice for women looking to build a career in the industry.

Reuel

Hello Essyllt! I’m delighted to be talking with you. How are you and the rest of Adversam?

Essyllt

I’m doing great, thank you, and I’m really honoured by the attention you’ve shown us. Adversam is in top form right now , Daimon has brought a real wave of fresh energy to the band, and we’re excited to bring it to as many people as possible.

Reuel

Last March, you released your fourth studio album, Daimon, 11 years after your previous full-length record. What was it like to return to the studio with Adversam and work on a new release after all those years?

Essyllt

Honestly, we never really stopped. The band has always been working and playing live. We simply followed our own creative pace and needs, without forcing ourselves into artificial deadlines. Going into the studio for Daimon was just the natural next step in that ongoing journey.

Reuel

Brilliant! You’re one of the pioneers of the Italian black metal scene, and your debut left a huge mark both in Italy and beyond. When you have that kind of influence and stay away from releasing new material for years, you can end up with a “legendary” status, which naturally raises expectations. Did that create any pressure while you were working on Daimon? And how did you deal with it?

Essyllt

It’s really humbling to hear that our early work left such a lasting mark on the scene, and we’re proud of the history we’ve built over the years. But when it came to Daimon, we simply didn’t let external expectations get in the way. If you write music just to protect a status or cater to expectations, you lose the real spirit of black metal. We create out of a personal need, and the only standard we have to meet is our own artistic integrity.

Reuel

You’ve been with Adversam since its birth in 1995. That’s a lifetime! To be specific, almost my lifetime. A lot has changed in the music scene since then, especially with new technology and the growing popularity of metal. What’s one thing you think has gotten worse, and one thing that has gotten better?

Essyllt

It’s definitely surreal when you put it that way, but being around for three decades gives you a very clear perspective on how the scene has evolved. Staying true to our vision and remaining active across different eras is something we’re really proud of.


When you’ve lived through those changes from 1995 until now, the contrast is clear. The worst part is how fast people consume music today—streaming and modern habits have made listening much more superficial, and people rarely take the time to sit down and truly immerse themselves in a full album anymore. On the other hand, the big advantage today is global reach: you can easily connect with listeners everywhere, build relationships with other bands, and take advantage of the incredible opportunities this modern underground network creates.

Reuel

Very well said!
Your keyboards add a lot of atmosphere to Adversam’s music, and in a way, they help express what lies beneath the songs. When you’re dealing with psychological and esoteric themes, how do you translate those ideas into the sounds and synth parts you create?

Essyllt

I think of my instrument as a way to give voice to what lies beneath the surface. Beyond just creating atmosphere, the keyboards act as a sounding board for the subconscious—giving expression to that deep emotional energy we all carry inside that wants to emerge. I want to tune directly into the listener’s mind, building a connection that truly stirs something within and touches them on a deeper level. Through synth harmonies, I try to bring those inner archetypes to light and let them dialogue with the visceral power of the other instruments.

Reuel

I saw a photo of you with Lord Ahriman on your Instagram, and your smile in that photo says it all! Who are some of the other metal heroes who have influenced you, personally or professionally?

Essyllt

Meeting Lord Ahriman was a true honor, and that photo definitely captured a genuine moment for me! Dark Funeral is easily one of my all-time favorite bands, and their work was a huge inspiration when I was first starting out on my musical path. Plenty of other bands guided and shaped my perspective—Samael, for instance—and those pioneers who built the foundation of black metal definitely left a lasting mark on my music. At the same time, my taste spans a wide range of musical styles, which has naturally enriched my approach over time. Most importantly, I believe my music has become a true expression of who I am, rather than a mere imitation of my influences.

Reuel

We have readers from all around the world, including women who still face barriers, and even persecution, in the music industry. What message would you like to share with those who dream of pursuing a music career?

Essyllt

It’s honestly senseless and completely unacceptable that anyone should still face barriers or persecution today just for wanting to create music. My message to them is simple: never ask for permission to take up space, and never compromise your vision just to make others comfortable. Turn every obstacle into a driving force for your music. Technical skill, determination, and authenticity will always rise above—just let the value of your work speak for itself.

Reuel

Thank you for your time, Essyllt! Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Essyllt

Thank you so much for this opportunity, for the deep attention you’ve given to me, Daimon, and Adversam, and thank you all for supporting women in music. I see this record as a true catalyst: my hope is that, through listening to it, people can open the doors to their true self and find the inner drive to follow their own Daimon.