Doomed Confessionary: Yasi, Juli, Zuza & Sören (Athame)
Athame is a predominantly female occult rock band from Dresden, Germany, founded in 2023. With a retro 70s rock sound, they weave mysticism and deep emotions into their music, exploring themes of Wicca, feminism, personal struggles, and a deep and sometimes dark connection with the universe. Channeling magick, doom and passion into their music, they are rebellious devotees of the Moon Goddess.
Athame have released their debut album »Magick Of The Goddess« on August 15th, 2024 and is available now on cassette and digital formats. »Magick Of The Goddess« was recorded in a stripped-down, 70s-style rehearsal room with minimal mics, no takes, and no click track. As you would hear them during rehearsal or in concert, authenticallly capturing their vintage proto-metal rock sound and feel.
With this raw, live recording-style and their genuine retro lo-fi production approach, they transport their love and passion for the arcane and ritualistic. It’s an authentic vintage sound that’s both timeless and original. What you hear is exactly how they vibe – no frills, just pure, unfiltered occult rock steeped in mysticism.
Can you say a few words about your band?
Athame is more than just a band – it’s an alchemical blend of music, spirituality, and self-discovery. We weave elements of psychedelic rock, doom, and 70s proto-metal into a sound that’s raw and ritualistic. What makes us unique is our commitment to authenticity: embracing Wicca not only in our lyrics but in our way of life, and our dedication to lo-fi production. It’s all about channeling something real, unfiltered, and deeply personal. We’re not chasing trends – we’re creating an experience rooted in the arcane and timeless.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
The biggest challenge was finding each other. Athame is made up of individuals with unique roles and gifts, yet we’ve come together as a cohesive whole. For us, music is the vehicle for a deeper purpose: living and expressing the Wiccan path authentically. Our lo-fi production is an extension of this philosophy – it’s not overproduced or polished; it’s raw, real, and honest, just like us. Each band member brings something irreplaceable to the table, making us greater than the sum of our parts.
What can you be most proud of so far?
We’re proud of creating something completely unique and staying true to ourselves. We don’t chase mainstream success or follow trends. Instead, we pour our hearts into making music that resonates with our beliefs and passions. It’s incredible to have found this medium of expression, and we’re deeply grateful to share it with those who understand or are curious about what we do.
What was your biggest regret?
Honestly, we have no regrets. Life, much like music, is a journey of exploration and growth. Every moment, every experience, has brought us closer to the people and artists we’re meant to be. We trust the Moon Goddess Hecate to guide us and embrace every step of this journey.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Every concert is special, but the most exhilarating moments happen when the audience joins in the ritual and connects with the energy we’re channeling. Those are the times when it transcends music – it becomes ecstatic, collective, and transformative.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The love for obscure retro music like ours! As a relatively new band, it’s been heartwarming to see the support and passion from our growing fanbase. People’s openness to exploring Wiccan themes and joining us in this journey has been both surprising and inspiring.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Our second tape album – it’s an ongoing labor of love and experimentation.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
“Don’t make music for others – make it for yourself. If it comes from the heart, it will find the people who need it.” This advice has been our guiding principle, allowing us to focus on authenticity and passion.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Let’s keep that a mystery! You might have to join us at a live show to figure it out. 😉
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Dresden?
In Saxony, and especially Dresden, there’s a deep appreciation for authenticity and retro sounds. The scene is thriving with bands exploring niche genres, and the support from the local community has been incredible for us.
Where can we see you live this year?
Here are some of our upcoming dates:
31.12.24 – Klangmanufaktur, Sebnitz (DE)
01.07.25 – C-Keller, Weimar (DE)
31.10.25 – Eiderland, Rendsburg (DE)
We’re also in discussions with several festivals and smaller venues. Keep an eye on our socials for updates!
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Our plan is simple: keep doing what we love, honor the Moon Goddess, and share our music with those who resonate with it. The journey itself is the reward.
Do you have any special plans for New Year’s Eve?
Yes, we’re performing a magical show at Klangmanufaktur in Sebnitz, Saxony. In Wicca, New Year’s Eve symbolizes transition and renewal – a perfect reflection of our music. It’s a time to honor the cycle of endings and beginnings, which resonates deeply with Athame’s themes of transformation and ritual.
How can people best support your band?
Buy our cassette tapes and attend our shows! Immersing yourself in the ritual and experiencing the music on tape – the purest form – is the best way to support us. Lo-fi and tape are inseparable, and they ensure you hear the music exactly as it was recorded.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Buy tapes. Streaming and digital formats dilute the sound and compromise the retro authenticity we’ve worked so hard to create. Cassette is the truest way to experience Athame – raw, unfiltered, and exactly as intended, make it something special, celebrating this analog ritual!
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well