Doomed Confessionary: Kostas Sal (Distorted Reflection)
Distorted Reflection is an epic doom metal band from Athens, Greece founded in August 2022 by Kostas Sal (ex-Sorrows Path). Kostas (guitar, vocals) is joined by Vangelis Yal (bass, synth, backing vocals) and Thomas Zen (drums).
The famous Tomas Arfert (Candlemass, Krux) created the logo and also took care of all the artwork for the first album of the band. This was titled »Doom Rules Eternally« and was recorded, mixed and mastered at Fragile Studio by Vangelis Yal. The album was released via German label Iron Shield Records in February 2024. Although Distorted Reflection kept a low-profile attitude (no lives/signings, no audio/video interviews), the sales and feedback about this album were awesome with great reviews and multiple radio airplay worldwide.
On February 2025, the band entered Fragile Studio again to record their sophomore album. Same about artwork and label, Tomas Arfert and Iron Shield Records did the work and all together aim for another successful release. The mighty guitarist Jack Starr (Burning Starr, ex-Virgin Steele) performed the solo for the opening song of the album »Doom Zone«, out on February 27th, 2026.
Can you please say a few words about your band?
Distorted Reflection was formed in August 2022 by Kostas Sal (ex-Sorrows Path) to pursue a heavier vision of the doom metal genre. The band maintains a low-profile approach, yet their 2 full-length albums (»Doom Rules Eternally« in 2024 and »Doom Zone« in 2026) received significant radio airplay, positive reviews and decent sales.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
The biggest challenge in 2022, when I formed the band, was to create something new, having already formed the first pure-blooded Greek doom metal band back in 1993 with the late Takis Drakopoulos. In the end, everything turned out to be easy and is going smoothly, driven by our love for genuine doom metal, our experience, and a clear vision. Of course, all this is happening with the help of very strong collaborators: Vangelis Yal on production and bass, Thomas Zen on drums, Tomas Arfert handling the amazing visual part, and of course, the powerhouse German label, Iron Shield Records. If we add some very special guests – with names like Ross The Boss (RIP legend…) and the great Jack Starr standing out for their huge role in the American metal scene – the recipe is bound to be successful and our course almost predetermined.
What can you be most proud of so far?
Having formed the first doom band in my country and never compromising on my vision… That is true freedom. There is nothing I could possibly be prouder of.
What was your biggest regret?
I never regret anything, that would be sad. I just get upset if I’ve been rude or inconsiderate to people because of situations, or if the way I am as a character has upset them. That’s life.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
I consider the times I met on stage with very important idols of mine, people who influenced me a lot in my artistic career, as my biggest moments. So, the times I met Candlemass, Solitude Aeturnus, and Warrel Dane were definitely unforgettable. Of course, I had fun at dozens of other live shows, fests, and tours.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
I continue to be amazed by the heart and soul that artists put into their music when it is truly expressed. That is the most important thing for me. Discussing technique, technology, or trends can be impressive, but it misses the point.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
The standard is Candlemass. From there I listen to a lot of things, but I generally avoid extreme metal, with a few exceptions.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Don’t worry, Kostakis, keep it heavy metal 😀
What are your guilty pleasures?
I don’t have any. My philosophy is to overcome guilt entirely!
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Greece?
There are remarkable doom and metal bands in Greece, and we have improved incredibly in terms of technical skill and performance. The extreme Greek metal scene played a huge role in this upsurge. What we still lack is consistency in releases and a distinct personality in the sound. Once we achieve that, I think we will be even better.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Distorted Reflection keeps a low profile, meaning no live shows, signings, or audio/video interviews.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
The band is truly here to stay, providing continuous, stable, and hopefully quality releases.
How can people best support your band?
Buy our merch or even our work digitally. This gives us life, strength, and the moral support that is essential for every artist.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Live freely and be well. Love one another, guided first by deep self-knowledge. Doom reigns eternal!
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well