Band Interview
Interview on the Anniversary of the Band Sarcasm
Veterans of Slovenian thrash metal, Sarcasm from Škofja Loka, are approaching their 35th anniversary. Their latest album Pot v raj (The Road to Paradise) was created during the COVID-19 crisis and critically addresses current social issues. We spoke with the band about the album and took a deeper look into their long history. Even though they’ve entered what some might call their “best middle years,” their drive hasn’t faded — something clearly proven by their loyal fanbase around the world.
Sarcasm are considered domestic thrash legends. Given the scene and your age, do you feel like legends — after more than thirty years on the scene?
Aleš K.: It’s definitely not a bad thing to be called a legend, although since joining the band it does make me feel older than I actually am (laughs). Jokes aside, Sarcasm have never really focused on labels like that — we’ve always been focused on making music. And judging by everything, we’re still doing that successfully.
Vito: According to our age, we probably are legends — or maybe “veterans” is a better word. On stage, you feel twenty again. But when you walk through the audience, you realise you could easily be the father or even grandfather of some people there (laughs).
The band has existed since 1987. Can each of you briefly describe how your journey with Sarcasm began and how different line-ups influenced the band’s sound, albums, and live performances?
Aleš B.: I’ve been in the band since its formation in 1987. Initially, bassist Sandi Dolinar and I played riffs in his room, which later evolved into our first songs. Drummer Matjaž Kacin joined us, and we rehearsed in a shelter beneath the Škofja Loka fire station. Our first concert was performed as a trio. In 1988, singer Osim Čehić – Pačo joined, the songs took their final shape, and we recorded our first demo in Borut Činč’s studio. Since then, many members have changed, so it’s hard to say how each line-up influenced the band. The working process shifted slightly over time, but we always stayed true to thrash metal.
Aleš K.: I joined Sarcasm at the end of 2008 as the youngest member, driven by my passion for this genre. At the time, rehearsals took place in the former drummer’s small basement-like room. The beginnings were physically demanding since I came from a rock background and struggled to keep up with the intensity. After skipping more than a few high school classes, I built enough stamina for live shows. Sarcasm represented an entirely new level of playing for me, and over the years I’ve grown significantly — both musically and personally.
Vito: I joined the band last, in 2013 — but as the oldest member. I also come from a rock background, and Sarcasm fulfilled a childhood dream of playing in a thrash metal band. I’d been following them my entire life — even riding my bike to rehearsals when I was younger. For the last two albums, I contributed several lyrics.
How do you see the local metal scene today compared to thirty years ago? Was it easier or harder for young bands back then?
Aleš B.: Back then, there weren’t many speed or thrash metal bands, so it was easier to get gigs. Club culture wasn’t really developed — concerts took place in community halls, fire stations, and cultural centres. We mostly collaborated with bands like Pomaranča, Game Over, Turbo, Krom, Epidemic Zone, Salem, and Železobeton — essentially all the active bands of that era.
How much have you developed your own sound compared to bands that tend to copy their idols? Who were your heroes growing up?
Aleš K.: I was involved in the last three albums, which already showed a sonic shift due to production changes. The latest album still retains a raw, non-industrial sound, which vinyl enthusiasts especially appreciate. What I’ve always loved about Sarcasm is that despite various influences, we stayed true to our own style — that’s the key to longevity.
Vito: I’m an old-school sound fan. Bands used to be recognisable within the first few seconds — like Kreator, Destruction, Agent Steel, and Slayer — who are also my personal heroes.
Klemen: Digitalisation has made recording much more affordable. We now fully control the recording, mixing, and mastering process and can take as much time as needed to achieve the sound we want.
Your mascot resembles classic metal icons like Eddie or Vic Rattlehead. What’s the story behind it?
Aleš B.: The mascot dates back to 1988. Our longtime supporter Robert Kuplenik (R.I.P.) designed the head, which appeared on early posters and badges. Later, he added the body of a metal warrior holding Krueger’s head — inspiring the song “Kruegerstory” and the album Crematory.
The latest album addresses very current topics. Do you ever hold back when expressing social criticism?
Vito: Not at all. Music is one of the ways to openly address the reality we live in. Sometimes you can influence people to think differently, even if you can’t change the system itself.
The album title is Pot v raj. What’s your recipe for dealing with the refugee crisis?
Klemen: Refugees want the same basic things we all do — safety, freedom, love, and a future. The issue reflects global politics, not just individual countries. We’re all part of the problem and the solution.
What does Sarcasm say about the pandemic?
Aleš K.: Don’t believe everything you hear and see. Use common sense and take care of each other. Ultimately, we all share one wish — to meet again at concerts.
Vito: This mix of politics, science, and repression is unprecedented. Common sense would have prevented a lot of it.
You’re approaching your 35th anniversary — are you planning something special?
Aleš B.: Given the uncertainty, it’s hard to plan big events. We’ll see how things unfold.
What’s the most sarcastic comment you’ve ever heard about the band?
Aleš K.: “Sarcasm? What — are you guys still alive?” And my reply is usually: “Yes — doesn’t it look that way?”
Vito: After one show someone asked when we released Crematory. When I said 1989, he replied: “That’s when I was born — respect, guys!”
Klemen: “Sarcasm, Sarcasm — we’re not done yet!”
