History
Decapitated: A Polish Death Metal Force
Decapitated emerged from Krosno, Poland, in 1996, a formidable death metal outfit formed by musicians still in their formative years at music school. Their early output, including the demos Cemeterial Gardens (1997) and The Eye of Horus (1998), quickly established them as significant players within the underground metal scene. This recognition led to a record deal with Wicked World/Earache Records, paving the way for their debut album, Winds of Creation.
At the time of their initial success, with members like Vitek (1984-2007) and Vogg (then 23), Decapitated stood out as one of the youngest bands to achieve prominence in the genre. Guitarist Vogg also maintained a connection with the Polish experimental black metal band Lux Occulta, performing alongside Martin.
Following the release of Winds of Creation, Decapitated embarked on a UK tour, receiving a highly positive reception. This success culminated in them being voted "Best Newcomer" in Terrorizer Magazine's 2000 Reader's Poll. A subsequent European tour in 2001 with Immolation further solidified their growing reputation.
Evolution and Challenges
The band's discography continued to expand with albums such as Nihility, which followed their debut. By 2004, with the release of The Negation and the subsequent Organic Hallucinosis, Decapitated had developed a more refined and classical death metal sound.
The year 2005 brought a significant change in their vocal lineup when Sauron departed due to health issues. He was succeeded by Covan, formerly of Atrophia Red Sun. The band remained signed to Earache Records, releasing Organic Hallucinosis on February 13, 2006. Around this time, Martin rejoined the band after fulfilling his mandatory military service in Poland, dispelling rumors of label disputes.
Tragic Incident and Resilience
A devastating automobile accident occurred on October 29, 2007, while the band was en route to a concert in Belarus. Their tour bus collided with a truck, resulting in injuries to Vitek and Covan. Despite initial reports of treatment in Moscow, they received care locally and in Novozybkov. Tragically, drummer Witold "Vitek" Kiełtyka succumbed to his injuries on November 2, 2007. The accident also rendered their tour bus irreparable.
In the aftermath, Waclaw "Vogg" Kieltyka temporarily joined Vader as a session guitarist while Decapitated's future was uncertain.
Rebuilding and Continuing the Legacy
Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Vogg announced in March 2009 his intention to continue Decapitated. He invited musicians worldwide to submit audition tapes. By July 31, 2009, the new lineup was revealed: Kerim "Krimh" Lechner joined as drummer, Rafal Piotrowski took over vocal duties, and Filip "Heinrich" Halucha joined on bass. Vogg remained the sole original member, committed to keeping the Decapitated legacy alive.