Rotting Christ have shown no signs of slowing down over the past year. The Greek extreme metal pioneers released their new live album, 35 Years of Evil Existence: Live in Lycabettus in April, capturing a monumental hometown performance that celebrated more than three decades of darkness. Now, the band are looking both backward and forward with a re-recorded version of their 2010 album Aealo, set to arrive on January 23.
To mark the occasion, we sat down with frontman Sakis Tolis to talk about his favorite Rotting Christ songs to perform live — and his choices span nearly the entirety of the band’s long and influential career. Check out that list below and get the band's latest album Pro Xristou here, 35 Years of Evil Existence: Live in Lycabettus here, and the upcoming Aealo re-recording right here.
"Demonon Vrosis" (Aealo, 2010)
One of our most groovy, atmospheric and melodic songs. It incarnates the philosophy of the Ancient Hellenic world on stage.
"In Yumen / Xibalba" (Kata Ton Daimona Eaytoy, 2013)
One of our darkest creations. The song takes me (and hopefully, you too!) on a journey to the mysterious and dark world of the Mayans. It is a magical feeling to escape from this world through your imagination on stage and I feel that "In Yumen / Xibalba" does this through its atmosphere.
"Elthe Kyrie" (Rituals, 2016)
This song is inspired by Bachaee, which is one of the most famous ancient Greek tragedies. There’s no better feeling for me on stage than being reminded of my roots while I am so far away from home!
"Societas Satanas" (Lucifer Over Athens, 2015)
The old school vibes of this song, along with its intense rhythm, gives me and our crowds a dose of adrenalin! It makes me think of the good old days.
"Non Serviam" (Non Serviam, 1994)
This is more than a song for us. It is a life stance! Non Serviam. I do not obey you!
