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1349 has just announced that they will release a new album later this year, taking their musical journey in an exciting new direction. Known for their signature “Aural hellfire” style, 1349’s upcoming tracks explore chaos, madness, darkness, peril, terror, and annihilation themes. Fans eagerly anticipate experiencing this new offering from the band, and during their upcoming North American tour, they may even get a sneak peek of their evolving sound. Of course, the band will also perform crowd-pleasing hits from their celebrated 2019 album, ‘The Infernal Pathway,’ and other significant works from their impressive twenty-year discography1.
Hailing from Oslo, Norway, 1349 is a black metal group that emerged in 1997. Composed of ex-members of Alvheim, including the renowned Satyricon drummer Frost, the band’s name is a nod to the year the Black Death ravaged Norway – a significant event in the country’s history that led to irrevocable change and devastation. The band’s music is a fierce and unrelenting homage to the pioneers of the black metal genre, staying true to the raw and uncompromising style that characterizes it.
The band embarked on their musical journey in 2001 with the release of their self-titled EP, followed shortly after that by their debut album, ‘Liberation,’ in 2003. Of particular note on ‘Liberation’ was the inclusion of a cover of Mayhem’s ‘Buried by Time and Dust,’ a nod to 1349’s deep roots in the black metal genre. This commitment to their influences is further demonstrated in their live performances, which feature the spectacle of Frost and Archaon breathing fire and covers of seminal bands like Celtic Frost. Ravn, the band’s vocalist, has cited Celtic Frost as his primary influence, and this reverence for their predecessors is a cornerstone of the band’s sound and stage presence.
The commitment of 1349 to touring and live performances has been a defining feature of their career. Their impressive track record includes a memorable 2006 North American tour with Celtic Frost and their participation in the Exhume to Consume Tour alongside Carcass, Suffocation, Aborted, and Rotten Sound in September 2008. Their live shows are renowned for their electric energy, which aims to go beyond a mere display of talent and create an all-encompassing experience. This passion was vividly apparent during their 2007 appearance at the prestigious French Hellfest festival, where they made an extraordinary request to reschedule their performance to play in the dark, heightening the atmospheric richness of their show.
The cultural significance of 1349 extends beyond the bounds of their sonic contributions to the metal scene, embodying a rich tapestry of historical, philosophical, and aesthetic dimensions that mirror the complex landscape of black metal heralded to a return to the raw, unfiltered essence of early black metal, eschewing the symphonic and atmospheric tendencies that had begun to pervade the genre. Their name, a direct reference to the year the Black Death reached Norway, encapsulates an homage to a pivotal historical moment and embodies the band’s thematic exploration of chaos, death, and the macabre.
The auditory experience provided by 1349 is a relentless assault on the senses, characterized by ferocious speed, dissonant guitar work, and a visceral vocal delivery. This sonic maelstrom is not arbitrary but is a meticulously crafted soundscape designed to evoke the bleak, nihilistic ethos at the heart of black metal. Through their music, 1349 engages with the genre’s foundational themes of nature, paganism, and antipathy towards modernity while delving into the philosophical underpinnings of existential despair and nihilism.
Culturally, 1349 stands as a bastion of black metal’s resistance to commercialization; in an era where mainstream acceptance and commercial pressures increasingly dilute genres, 1349’s unwavering commitment to the genre’s core principles serves as a reminder of black metal’s origins as a form of artistic and ideological rebellion. This resistance is sonic and manifests in their visual presentation and live performances. It is characterized by an austere aesthetic that eschews the theatricality found in some genre strands.
Moreover, 1349’s music and thematic content serve as a conduit for exploring Norse mythology and history, providing a medium through which contemporary audiences can engage with the cultural heritage of Norway. This aspect of their work contributes to the preservation of cultural memory. It situates the band within a more extensive dialogue about the role of mythology and history in shaping national identity. In this way, 1349’s work transcends mere musical output, becoming a part of a broader cultural narrative that explores the intersections of history, identity, and art.
The band also plays a pivotal role in the global dissemination of Norwegian black metal, serving as cultural ambassadors for a genre deeply rooted in Norway’s specific geographical and historical context. Through international tours and participation in global music festivals, 1349 has contributed to the globalization of black metal, facilitating cultural exchange and influencing the genre’s development worldwide. This global reach has not only elevated the status of Norwegian black metal. However, it has also fostered a cross-cultural dialogue, wherein the aesthetic and thematic elements of the genre are reinterpreted through diverse cultural lenses.
1349 has carved out a unique niche within the black metal genre, marked by their relentless pursuit of traditional and innovative soundscapes. Their discography from the early 2000s showcases a trajectory of evolution, embracing and transcending the genre’s roots.
The band’s journey commenced with ‘Liberation,’ released on February 15th, 2003, through Candlelight Records. This debut album encapsulates black metal’s raw, unadulterated essence, its ferocious speed, blistering blast beats, and a palpable sense of urgency and menace. ‘Liberation’ manifests the band’s commitment to the genre’s core tenets, establishing 1349 as purveyors of chaos and darkness.
Following this, ‘Beyond the Apocalypse,’ released on April 19th, 2004, continued to build on the foundation laid by their debut. This sophomore release delved deeper into the abyss with more complex compositions and a production accentuating the band’s relentless assault on the senses. The album was a testament to their growing mastery over their craft, offering a more refined yet equally unyielding vision of black metal.
‘Hellfire,’ released on May 24th, 2005, is a monumental achievement in 1349’s discography, further cementing their reputation within the black metal community. After the raw intensity of ‘Liberation’ and the complex darkness of ‘Beyond the Apocalypse,’ this album escalates the band’s exploration of the genre’s extremities to new heights. ‘Hellfire’ is characterized by its blistering speed, technical precision, and an atmosphere imbued with an apocalyptic fervor, showcasing 1349’s ability to blend traditional black metal elements with its unique vision of sonic devastation.
‘Revelations of the Black Flame,’ released May 25th, 2009, marked a significant pivot in the band’s discography. Collaborating with Tom Gabriel Fischer for production, this album ventured into more experimental and ambient territories, diverging from their established high-velocity black metal. This shift towards a darker, more atmospheric sound illustrated the band’s willingness to explore and redefine the boundaries of the genre, even at the risk of alienating some segments of their fan base.
Released on April 26th, 2010, through Indie Recordings, ‘Demonoir’ represents a significant evolution in 1349’s discography, marking a return to their black metal roots infused with the experimental essence captured in ‘Revelations of the Black Flame.’ This album seamlessly blends the ferocity and speed characteristic of their earlier work with the atmospheric and ambient elements explored in their 2009 release, creating a complex and deeply immersive listening experience.
‘Massive Cauldron of Chaos,’ released on September 29th, 2014, through Season of Mist, marks another formidable chapter in the evolution of 1349’s sound, blending the aggressive roots of their early black metal with the experimental tendencies developed in their later works. This album stands out for its razor-sharp precision, relentless speed, and an undercurrent of melody that threads through the dark tapestry of their music, presenting a more accessible yet undiluted version of their signature style.
‘The Infernal Pathway,’ released on October 18th, 2019, further cemented 1349’s standing in the black metal pantheon, showcasing the band’s relentless pursuit of aggression and atmospherics. Following the highly regarded ‘Massive Cauldron of Chaos,’ this album captures the essence of 1349’s signature sound while pushing into new territories of musical and lyrical exploration. It is characterized by its blistering speed, technical proficiency, and a darkly immersive atmosphere that envelops the listener in a cloak of sonic darkness.
The album is marked by a refined production that accentuates the band’s intricate musicianship, from the searing guitar riffs and thunderous drumming to the venomous vocal deliveries. Each track is meticulously crafted, offering a journey through landscapes of chaos and despair, with the band balancing their trademark ferocity with moments of haunting melody. This balance highlights the band’s evolution, showcasing their ability to create not only brutally intense but also richly textured and dynamically varied music.
Thematically, the album delves into concepts of darkness and the occult, with a narrative coherence that suggests a descent into the depths of the infernal. The lyrical content and the album’s sonic landscapes create a visceral listening experience that is both intellectually engaging and emotionally stirring.
Critically, ‘The Infernal Pathway’ was well-received, with fans and critics praising the band for their ability to remain at the forefront of the black metal genre, continually evolving without sacrificing the core elements that define their sound. The album is a testament to 1349’s unwavering dedication to their craft, highlighting their role as survivors and innovators within a genre that thrives on pushing boundaries. ‘The Infernal Pathway’ thus represents another milestone in 1349’s ongoing journey, reinforcing their legacy as one of the most formidable and creatively ambitious bands in the black metal scene.
The band’s artistic vision extends beyond their music, as evidenced by their music videos. ‘Sculptor of Flesh,’ a standout from their ‘Hellfire’ album, directed by Judd Tilyard, is a masterful fusion of sound and visuals. The use of juxtaposed surgery footage with performance footage creates a captivating and unnerving narrative.
The music of 1349 is characterized by its intense velocity, intricate guitar arrangements, and moody undertones that conjure visions of Norway’s stark, barren vistas. Far from being a chaotic jumble, this aural onslaught is a conduit for conveying deep existential unease and an affinity for the eerie and cryptic. The band’s lyrics delve into the metaphysical, delving into concepts of disorder, obscurity, and emptiness, inviting introspection into the darker recesses of the human psyche and the universe.
1349’s cultural impact stretches beyond their musical accomplishments. They embody the rebellious essence of black metal, pushing against societal conventions, religious doctrines, and the commercialization of art and culture. This spirit of defiance is not limited to their lyrics. However, it is also reflected in their visual style, featuring corpse paint, stage monikers, and fire and ritual during live shows to create an all-encompassing artistic experience transcending mere sound.
Additionally, 1349 has been instrumental in preserving and revitalizing the Norwegian black metal scene, which has experienced criticism and glorification in mainstream media. Their dedication to upholding the fundamental values of the genre, combined with an openness to innovation and growth, has resulted in the continued significance and impact of black metal in an ever-evolving musical climate. As a result, they have attracted a diverse fan base from around the world, promoting the globalization of black metal and promoting a shared connection among enthusiasts from varying backgrounds and regions.
Within contemporary music and culture, 1349 serves as an insightful case study for examining themes of authenticity, artistic integrity, and the interplay between subculture and mainstream society. Through their work, the band demonstrates how extreme music can be a powerful form of artistic expression, capable of delving into complex philosophical and existential questions. Furthermore, their history and evolution offer valuable insights into the dynamics of the music industry, the role of art in society, and how cultural artifacts reflect and shape the spirit of the times.
1349 is known for their dark artistry, and is preparing to embark on a significant tour through Eastern Canada and the United States in May. This tour marks their debut at the Maryland Deathfest. It coincides with their participation in the esteemed Dark Lord Day, a festival celebrating the 20th anniversary of 3 Floyd’s Brewing’s metal and beer fest. The festival is renowned for its exclusive release of the Dark Lord Imperial Stout, a demonic Russian-style brew that has captivated the palates of metal and beer enthusiasts alike. The event promises an electrifying lineup featuring bands such as Spiritworld, Fugitive, Abbath, and headliners High on Fire, setting the stage for an unforgettable fusion of metal music and craft beer culture.
Joining 1349 on their North American tour is a carefully curated selection of bands that capture the essence of the occult and avant-garde within the metal genre. Among them are Spectral Wound from Canada, Antichrist Siege Machine from Richmond, and Spirit Possession from Oregon, each contributing their distinctive soundscapes to enhance the overall concert experience for attendees.
The participation of 1349 in Maryland Deathfest and Dark Lord Day goes beyond mere performance. It represents the coming together of metal music culture, craft beer innovation, and the communal celebration of these art forms. In addition, the band’s introduction of fresh material from their upcoming album, alongside their vast discography, showcases their ongoing evolution and lasting relevance within the black metal genre.
As 1349 prepares for their upcoming European tour, they are pleased to announce their participation in several prestigious festivals, including Rockstadt Extreme Fest, Area 53 Festival, and the Inferno Festival. Alongside label mates Abbath and VLTIMAS, these appearances will solidify their stature within the global metal community while allowing diverse audiences to immerse themselves in the profound intensity and artistic depth of Norwegian black metal.
The upcoming tour and album release from 1349 mark a crucial turning point in their musical career. With a deep dedication to exploring the human experience through their unique soundscapes and a commitment to delivering electrifying live performances, the band has secured their place in the black metal scene for years to come. As they prepare to share their latest creations with the world, 1349 represents a leading force in the movement that celebrates the darker side of art and music. Fans, both old and new, are invited to join them on this thrilling journey.
- de Borba, Alex. “1349 Unveils New Depths on Tour Ahead of Upcoming Album Release” Atmostfear Entertainment, Edition 13, Issue 161, March 8, 2024. https://www.atmostfear-entertainment.com/music/concerts/1349-unveils-new-depths-tour-ahead-upcoming-album-release/. ↩︎
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