Immortal: An Overview
Formation and Origin
Immortal is a Norwegian black metal band formed in Bergen, Norway, in 1991. The band was founded by vocalist and bassist Abbath Doom Occulta (Olve Eikemo) and guitarist Demonaz Doom Occulta (Harald Nævdal). Immortal is known for their pioneering role in the second wave of black metal and for their frostbitten themes and imagery.
Musical Style
Immortal is characterized by their raw and aggressive black metal style. Key characteristics of their sound include:
- Fast, tremolo-picked guitar riffs
- Blast beat drumming
- Harsh, growled vocals
- Atmospheric and cold production
- Lyrics focusing on winter, darkness, and fantasy themes
Band Members
Current Members:
- Demonaz Doom Occulta (vocals, guitar) – original member, returned to performing after health issues
- Horgh (drums) – joined in 1996
Former Members:
- Abbath Doom Occulta (vocals, bass, guitar) – left in 2015
- Armagedda (drums) – original drummer, left in 1992
- Grim (drums) – played from 1993 to 1994
- Apollyon (bass) – played from 2006 to 2015
Discography
Immortal has released several influential black metal albums. Notable studio albums include:
- Diabolical Fullmoon Mysticism (1992) – Their debut album, establishing their early sound.
- Pure Holocaust (1993) – Known for its raw aggression and speed.
- Battles in the North (1995) – Further developed their intense and icy sound.
- Blizzard Beasts (1997) – Marked a slight shift towards a more death metal-influenced sound.
- At the Heart of Winter (1999) – A critically acclaimed album, featuring more melodic and epic compositions.
- Damned in Black (2000) – Continued their exploration of a more polished black metal sound.
- Sons of Northern Darkness (2002) – Another highly regarded album, known for its powerful production and songwriting.
- All Shall Fall (2009) – Marked their return after a hiatus, with a strong and atmospheric sound.
- Northern Chaos Gods (2018) – Their latest release, featuring a return to their classic, raw black metal roots.
Interesting Facts
- Band Breakups and Reformations: Immortal has experienced several breakups and reformations. They went on hiatus in 2003 but reunited in 2006. Abbath’s departure in 2015 led to another reformation with Demonaz taking on vocal duties.
- Health Issues: Demonaz was diagnosed with tendinitis in 1997, which limited his ability to play guitar. However, he continued to write lyrics and later returned to playing guitar after his recovery.
- Influence: Immortal is considered one of the most influential bands in the black metal genre, helping to shape the sound and aesthetic of the second wave of black metal.
- Imagery and Themes: The band’s imagery and lyrics are heavily inspired by cold, wintery landscapes and fantasy themes, often referencing their fictional realm of Blashyrkh.
- Live Performances: Immortal is known for their theatrical live performances, often featuring corpse paint, spikes, and elaborate stage setups.
- Legacy: Despite lineup changes and periods of inactivity, Immortal’s music has left a lasting impact on the black metal scene, and they continue to have a dedicated fan base.
Immortal remains a significant and influential band in the black metal genre, known for their raw sound, cold atmosphere, and dedication to their unique thematic vision.
