KOSTOLOM: Heavy Riffs, a Distinctive Show, and Their Own Path
The Czech metal scene is constantly evolving. Alongside established names, new bands continue to emerge, bringing fresh energy, their own perspective on music, and above all, the determination to prove that heavy music still holds a firm place among the younger generation. One such band is Kostolom.
This four-piece group from the Krkonoše region began their journey together only recently, yet they have already introduced original material, played their first shows, and attracted the attention of fans of heavier music. Their sound is built on an original approach, raw energy, and a desire to create songs that are more than just copies of established influences.
At a time when many young bands rely on quick success through social media, Kostolom has chosen a different route – honest work in the rehearsal room, gaining experience through live performances, and gradually building their own identity. That is precisely what makes them one of the most interesting discoveries on the Czech underground scene.
How did the band's name come about? What inspired its formation? What are their musical ambitions, and where do they want to take their music? We spoke with the members of Kostolom about all this and more.
Why did you choose the name Kostolom? Is there a specific story, symbolism, or simply the energy of the word behind it?
We chose the name Kostolom purely because of the energy and symbolism of the word. We want bones to be broken at our shows – mainly necks from headbanging. That's why we chose the name Kostolom.
When did the moment come when you realized that your jam sessions and rehearsals were turning into a real band?
It happened when the guitarist and drummer started learning songs to improve their skills. Later, they wrote the song Fast Murder and decided to find people with the same mindset and start a band that wouldn't be like any other.
Which bands and musical styles have influenced you the most, and what elements do you consciously bring into your own music?
Each member is inspired by different bands and different styles. We really enjoy using the knowledge of our second guitarist, who is well-versed in funk, so funk metal and sometimes nu metal are major influences for us.
Even the name Kostolom sounds heavy. What's the difference between the band's image on stage and who you are off stage?
On stage, we release all the suppressed energy and pain that we have to carry inside us. Off stage, we're not that different. Without our masks, you probably wouldn't recognize us on the street, but there's not much difference between us and our stage personas.
If someone could hear only one Kostolom song, which one would best represent your identity, and why?
I'd definitely say Specters. It's not available anywhere yet, but it represents us better than any other song. It's a mix of energy, pain, and one of our perspectives on the world. It has funk elements, psychedelic sections, and constantly shifting moods.
What do you think is the biggest problem for young bands on the Czech scene today – lack of clubs, fans, finances, or something else entirely?
The biggest problem is the lack of energy on stage and during performances. Lyrics often feel meaningless to me, and a lot of people don't do it because they love it anymore – they do it just for money. People also don't experiment enough and are afraid to push things to the extreme.
Do you have clearly defined roles when writing music, or do you function more through collective chaos?
We're one big chaos, and we don't have any roles. We just put together whatever comes to mind, and chaos is born from it.
How do your lyrics come together? Are they personal statements, reactions to society, or a way to vent emotions?
Our lyrics are a way to release the emotions we experience. They're about society, pain, and struggles that we can at least partially escape through writing.
What has been the wildest, funniest, or most absurd moment you've experienced as a band so far?
Nothing comes to mind.
What do you want people to take away from a Kostolom show besides a sore neck and bruises from the mosh pit?
The urge to come to another show and for us to stay in their heads. We want people to go crazy over us.
Do you think heavy music today is more about the music itself or about social media presentation? How do you deal with that?
Heavy music today is almost about nothing. And how do we deal with it? We don't care.
Where do you see Kostolom in two or three years? Are your goals big festivals, international shows, or mainly building your own fan community?
We'd say all of the above. We'd love to play major festivals, but we'd also like to gradually expand abroad and reach more people who love what we do.
If you could go on tour with any band in the world, who would it be and why?
Each member would choose someone different, but we think we'd all agree on Rammstein or Slipknot.
Kostolom proves that the Czech metal scene continues to produce bands unafraid to follow their own path. Instead of chasing trends and social media popularity, they focus on energy, authenticity, and raw live performances. Their music is created spontaneously, driven by emotion, pain, and the joy of making music itself – and it is precisely this honesty that sets them apart from many contemporary projects. Whether the future holds major festivals, international stages, or the growth of a strong fanbase, one thing is certain: Kostolom has a clear vision and the determination to leave a lasting impression on listeners. If you're looking for a band that puts maximum energy into its music and isn't afraid to experiment, Kostolom is definitely one to keep on your radar.
