When Tobias Forge Called Us His Favourite New Metal Band, I Got Really Emotional”: An Exclusive Interview with Death Metal Pioneers Crypta

For modern death metal enthusiasts, Crypta is a name that stands out. Co-founded by former Nervosa singer/bassist Fernanda Lira in 2019, this Brazilian quartet has swiftly risen to prominence in the metal scene. Their groovy and melodic tracks have garnered endorsements from genre icons like Morbid Angel, and the release of their 2023 album, Shades Of Sorrow, has further solidified their reputation. Notably, Tobias Forge of Ghost proclaimed Crypta as his favourite up-and-coming metal act, a testament to their growing influence.

As Crypta prepares to embark on a headline UK tour starting tomorrow (June 9), we had the opportunity to sit down with Fernanda Lira to discuss the band’s most notable supporters and her previous career as a music journalist.

Tobias Forge’s Endorsement and Playing with Ghost

Reflecting on Tobias Forge’s endorsement, Fernanda shared, “That was the coolest thing! Even cooler than that was when, a few months later, we were invited to play with Ghost in Brazil, in my hometown [São Paulo]. It was the biggest show I’ve ever played in my hometown, so it was really cool. But, when I saw [what Tobias said about Crypta], I kind of got really emotional, because we’re here hustling, doing a lot of work. It still surprises me when I get these big names saying that they know Crypta, even when I’m putting all my effort into making the band bigger and bigger.”

When asked about supporting Ghost, Fernanda described the experience as unforgettable: “I’m pretty sure most of the audience – it was probably around 10,000 people, and the house was already packed when we played – had no idea who we were. But I felt that they were pleased with what they saw. I think people were shocked, because there aren’t any blast beats or growls in Ghost, but shocked in a positive way. And there were so many girls at the show. I could see on their faces that they were really happy about seeing us up there [onstage].”

Meeting Metal Legends

Fernanda’s Instagram showcases her interactions with a who’s who of heavy metal, including the legendary King Diamond. “That was simply the best interaction I’ve had with a metal musician, ever. He’s one of my biggest idols! I’ve been fascinated by King Diamond since I was a teenager. I have a huge-ass tattoo [of his face on Fernanda’s leg], which was the reason I got to meet him. At a festival, I got a message from someone saying they saw the tattoo and worked for Mercyful Fate, and they’d like to take a picture of it to show him. I was like, ‘OK, time to get stabbed,’ ha ha! Surprisingly enough, he was alright. He gave me a pass to watch the show and, when I was told I was about to meet King Diamond, I almost threw up. I was so nervous, but he was so kind.”

A Background in Music Journalism

Fernanda’s journey to becoming a renowned musician began with a passion for journalism. “Yes! I studied journalism [at university] for three years and my ultimate goal was to become a metal journalist. I had been in bands since I was a teenager, but I never believed I’d be doing what I am now, touring and playing festivals. I did a lot of freelance stuff in the Brazilian metal scene: I started off by doing album reviews, then I did interviews for a metal TV show.”

When asked about her on-camera experiences, Fernanda reminisced, “Yeah, interviewing fans and bands. I interviewed so many people: I did [Dream Theater drummer] Mike Portnoy, some of the people in Queensrÿche…”

Among her most memorable interviews were Tony Foresta from Municipal Waste and Michael Kiske from Helloween. “I think the coolest one might have been Tony Foresta from Municipal Waste: he was very chill and very funny, and it felt like a conversation between friends, although that was the first time we met. Or it was Michael Kiske from Helloween. He’s one of my main idols and the coolest person I’ve ever interviewed. He was so chill, I couldn’t believe it. We were supposed to have, I don’t know, 15 or 20 minutes, but we ended up talking for an hour.”

Supporting Emerging Metal Bands

Following the endorsements from industry giants, Fernanda shared the new metal bands she wants to promote. “I will start in Brazil. There are two bands I really love here. One is Eskröta, they’re a feminist crossover thrash band and I fucking love them. The other one is actually my favourite band to watch live. They’re called Surra. Another crossover band, they’re fucking fast and fucking amazing! There’s another band called Nakkeknaekker from Denmark. They’re a very good band live.”

Upcoming Tour

Crypta’s UK tour kicks off in Derby tomorrow (June 9). The band will return in August to play in London, Glasgow, and Bloodstock Open Air. Don’t miss out on the chance to see one of death metal’s rising stars. See the full list of dates and get tickets now.

Conclusion

Crypta’s rapid ascent in the death metal scene, supported by endorsements from metal legends and a dedicated fanbase, showcases their exceptional talent and hard work. Fernanda Lira’s journey from a journalist to a celebrated musician underscores the passion driving Crypta’s success. As they continue to tour and create groundbreaking music, Crypta is undoubtedly a band to watch in the evolving landscape of metal.