Dimmu Borgir – Stormblåst (1996)

December 26, 2020

The original Stormblast record (stolen keyboard compositions or otherwise) is a stunning work of ‘symphonic’ black metal. I write ‘symphonic’ like that becuase this doesn’t sound like metal with a fat orchestral section dumped on top, the keys and atmospherics are instead an extension of the existing tone and vibe; kinda like how Nocturnus put keyboards effortlessly into death metal.

Each track is a gem, and the mix – which has its detractors I’m sure – is perfect for me. It conjures a medieval world of unknown forces and adventure. Plus, how cool is that cover art?