Doomed Confessionary: Tarik, Jan & Gabrijel (AYD)
AYD is a three-piece sludge/doom/post-metal band hailing from Gornja Radgona, Slovenia. Formed as a trio: Tarik Puškar (bass, vocals), Jan Lovrenčič (guitar) and Gabrijel Krajnc (drums), the group has quickly carved out a distinct identity in the European underground music scene.
AYD characterizes their sound as an engulfing blend of “ritualistic post-doom” that focuses heavily on atmosphere and dynamic weight. Their music is known for being incredibly immersive and monumental, prioritizing deeply textured, slow-tempo crushing riffs and hypnotic rhythms. Rather than relying solely on aggressive speed, the band opts for expansive, long-form songwriting that pulls listeners into a dark, cinematic sonic landscape.
In May 2026, the band released their self-titled debut album, which caught the attention of the international heavy rock community by delivering a massive, multi-genre fusion of sludge, doom metal, and post-metal. The record gained notable traction and even securing a spot on the Doom Charts Peroration.
Can you please say a few words about your band?
We are AYD, a stoner/doom/post band located in a bunker in Gornja Radgona. The band consists of:
• Tarik Puškar (bass and vocals)
• Jan Lovrenčič (guitar)
• Gabrijel Krajnc (drums)
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Putting together »Al Araf« into a coherent song and then learning it for live performances.
What can you be most proud of so far?
Playing as an opener for Conan and 1000mods.
What was your biggest regret?
Not starting the band earlier.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
The best concert was in Ptuj with The Canyon Observer and MHM. It was a small venue and we didn’t mic up the amps so we could crank them really loud. Also, we played full stacks (thank you Canyon Observer).
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The overall positive feedback we received from crowds, music blogs, reviews etc.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Gabrijel: Panzerfaust
Tarik: Sodom
Jan: Ulcerate
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
The KISS principal – Keep It Simple Stupid.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Rubbing zaseka (minced lard) all over our bodies and wiggle on the floor like a worm. We call it slimy jim.
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Gornja Radgona?
Radgona has a small but interesting scene, ranging across different genres like metal, punk, hardcore etc.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
We are done with concerts for this year, stay tuned for next year 🙂
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Hanging together, making better music, play bigger shows, drink colder beer.
How can people best support your band?
Buy our merch at a concert or via Bandcamp. Also, share us to your friends, family, pets, neighbour Jim, personal physician and psychiatrist.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
We hope you like what you’re hearing and we hope you’ll stick around for more. Cheers yall!
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well