Genres
Avarayr is an Armenian pagan black metal band founded in 2013 by vocalist and guitarist Narek Avedyan. The last-known line-up of the band includes drummer Ervin Martirosian, vocalist Armen Shahbegian, bassist and vocalist Mher Azizbekyan, and guitarist Hayk "Hoxie" Gyurjyan.
Mixing poignant Armenian and Persian folk music motifs with the ferocity of black metal riffing, Avarayr's music transfers the listener to sombre depths of a distant past where the old gods live and ancient pagan hymns are sung aloud.
Lyrically, the band draws from Hetanism (the pre-christian Armenian native faith), the Mehianism literary movement, and Armenian folklore. Also incorporated are elements from Persian literary tradition and folklore.
To date, Avarayr has released one full-length album, A Symphony Carved in Stone, as well as numerous demos and EPs.
In early 2025, the band transitioned from black metal to focus on pagan folk music, which was showcased at a show alongside Of the Wand and the Moon. The band is currently working on their follow-up release, Mehyan, as well as other more experimental releases.
