Enslaved: Celebrating Three Decades of ‘Vikingligr Veldi’ with a Landmark Concert in Bogotá, Colombia

Thirty years ago, the Norwegian metal band Enslaved released their debut album ‘Vikingligr Veldi,’ a milestone that deserves a grand celebration. This pivotal work, recorded at Grieghallen Studio in Bergen with Pytten as co-producer, first emerged in 1994 through Deathlike Silence Productions, marking the start of Enslaved’s expansive journey through various musical styles. To commemorate this landmark, Enslaved will perform an exclusive anniversary concert at Rockefeller, joined by the visionary metal band Vemod as special guests.

Accompanying them is Vemod, a Norwegian band hailing from the region of Namsos that has garnered significant attention within the atmospheric black metal scene since its inception. Formed in 2000, the band is renowned for its ethereal and immersive soundscapes, which intricately blend elements of black metal with ambient and post-rock influences. This synthesis creates a distinctive auditory experience that transports listeners into contemplative and expansive sonic realms.

Vemod’s music often explores themes of nature, spirituality, and existential introspection, reflecting the profound connection between the harsh yet beautiful Nordic landscapes and the human psyche. Their debut full-length album, ‘Venter på stormene,’ released in 2012, demonstrates their unique approach, receiving critical acclaim for its haunting melodies and atmospheric depth. The band’s meticulous attention to compositional detail and their ability to evoke profound emotional responses have solidified their reputation as pioneers in their genre.

History

Enslaved, a seminal band from Norway, has been at the forefront of the progressive black metal scene for over three decades. Formed in 1991 by Ivar Bjørnson and Grutle Kjellson, the band has consistently pushed the boundaries of genre conventions, blending elements of black metal with progressive rock, Viking themes, and avant-garde influences.

Early Years and Formation

The genesis of Enslaved occurred in the heart of Norway’s burgeoning black metal scene. Bjørnson and Kjellson, both in their late teens, were driven by a shared passion for metal and Norse mythology. Their early work was heavily influenced by the raw and abrasive sound of black metal, characterized by fast tempos, shrieking vocals, and lo-fi production.

Their debut album, ‘Vikingligr Veldi’ (1994), while not entirely a departure from traditional black metal themes, focused instead on a deeper Viking connection with history and mythology. This thematic shift set Enslaved apart from their contemporaries and laid the foundation for their unique sound. According to Bjørnson, the decision to explore Viking themes was both a personal and artistic choice, reflecting their cultural heritage and a desire to create something distinct within the black metal scene.

Artistic Evolution

1990s: Forging a Unique Identity

The mid-1990s were a period of experimentation and growth for Enslaved. Their second album, ‘Frost’ (1994), continued to explore Viking themes but introduced more complex song structures and melodic elements. This album solidified their reputation as pioneers within the black metal genre and showcased their willingness to innovate.

Enslaved’s third album, ‘Eld’ (1997), marked a significant turning point. The incorporation of progressive rock influences, longer compositions, and clean vocals demonstrated their evolving sound. The track ‘793 (Slaget om Lindisfarne)’ is particularly notable for its epic scope and intricate arrangement, blending black metal ferocity with progressive ambition.

Music critics and scholars have often highlighted ‘Eld’ as a watershed moment for the band. According to metal historian Dayal Patterson, “‘Eld’ was the album where Enslaved truly began to carve out their own niche, blending the rawness of black metal with the expansive scope of progressive rock.”

2000s: Embracing Progressiveness

The early 2000s saw Enslaved fully embrace their progressive tendencies. Albums like ‘Monumension’ (2001) and ‘Below the Lights’ (2003) showcased an increasing complexity in both composition and thematic content. The band began to experiment with unconventional song structures, time signatures, and instrumentation, incorporating keyboards and synthesizers more prominently into their sound.

This period also marked a shift in lyrical themes. While Viking mythology remained a cornerstone, the band began to explore more abstract and philosophical topics. The album ‘Isa’ (2004) is a prime example of this shift, delving into themes of existentialism and introspection. The critical acclaim for ‘Isa’ was widespread, with many praising its ambitious scope and intricate musicianship.

Cultural critic Simon Reynolds notes, “With ‘Isa,’ Enslaved not only reaffirmed their place within the metal pantheon but also expanded the genre’s horizons, challenging what metal could be both musically and thematically.”

2010s: Mastery and Innovation

Enslaved’s momentum continued into the 2010s with a series of critically acclaimed albums that further refined their sound. ‘Axioma Ethica Odini’ (2010) and ‘RIITIIR’ (2012) were particularly well-received, showcasing a mature and confident band at the height of their creative powers. These albums blended the ferocity of their early work with the sophistication of their progressive influences, resulting in a sound that was both powerful and nuanced.

The band’s willingness to innovate was also evident in their live performances. Enslaved’s live shows became known for their intensity and theatricality, often incorporating elaborate stage designs and visual effects. This commitment to a holistic artistic experience underscored their status as one of metal’s most forward-thinking bands.

2020s: Continuing the Journey

Enslaved’s recent work continues to push boundaries. Their latest albums, ‘E’ (2017) and ‘Utgard’ (2020), explore new musical territories while remaining rooted in their distinctive sound. ‘Utgard,’ in particular, received widespread acclaim for its ambitious concept and execution, blending elements of Norse mythology with contemporary themes.

In a recent interview, Kjellson reflected on the band’s enduring appeal, stating, “We have always followed our own path, and I think that is why we have been able to stay relevant for so long. We never wanted to repeat ourselves, and we are always looking for new ways to challenge ourselves and our listeners.”

Thematic and Musical Analysis

Norse Mythology and Cultural Heritage

Enslaved’s music is deeply intertwined with Norse mythology and their Norwegian heritage. This connection is evident not only in their lyrics but also in their musical compositions, which often draw on traditional Nordic melodies and instruments. The use of Norse themes has been a constant throughout their career, providing a rich tapestry of stories and symbols that have informed their artistic vision.

The band’s exploration of Norse mythology is both reverent and innovative. While they draw on traditional tales and motifs, they also reinterpret these stories in a contemporary context, using them as a lens to explore modern themes such as identity, spirituality, and the human condition.

Progressive Influences

One of the defining features of Enslaved’s music is their incorporation of progressive rock elements. This influence is evident in their complex song structures, dynamic arrangements, and experimental approach to composition. Bands like Pink Floyd, King Crimson, and Rush have been cited as major influences, and their impact can be heard in Enslaved’s use of shifting time signatures, extended instrumental passages, and layered harmonies.

The integration of progressive rock into a black metal framework has allowed Enslaved to create a unique and distinctive sound. This fusion has not only set them apart from their peers but also expanded the possibilities of what black metal can be, challenging genre conventions and pushing the boundaries of musical experimentation.

Philosophical and Existential Themes

As Enslaved’s music has evolved, so too have their lyrical themes. While early albums focused primarily on Viking history and mythology, later works have delved into more abstract and philosophical territory. Themes of existentialism, spirituality, and introspection have become increasingly prominent, reflecting the band’s growth and maturity as artists.

This shift in lyrical focus has been accompanied by a more nuanced and sophisticated approach to songwriting. The band’s lyrics often explore complex and multifaceted ideas, inviting listeners to engage with their music on a deeper level. This intellectual depth, combined with their innovative musical approach, has cemented Enslaved’s reputation as one of the most forward-thinking bands in the metal genre.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Impact on the Metal Scene

Enslaved’s impact on the metal scene cannot be overstated. Their willingness to experiment and innovate has influenced countless bands and inspired a new generation of musicians. Their fusion of black metal with progressive rock has opened up new avenues for artistic expression within the genre, challenging traditional boundaries and expanding the possibilities of what metal can be.

Music journalist Dom Lawson has described Enslaved as “one of the most important and influential bands in metal today,” noting that their innovative approach has “paved the way for a new wave of progressive and experimental metal bands.”

Release

‘Heimdal’ (2023)

Reflecting on the journey since their latest album ‘Heimdal,’ Enslaved expressed immense gratitude for the support received. As a token of appreciation, the band announced the release of ‘Heimdal’ (Deluxe) digital album on March 1st, 2024, via Nuclear Blast Records. This deluxe edition includes the full studio album, the bonus track ‘Gangandi,’ and alternative versions of ‘Congelia’ and ‘Forest Dweller,’ both featuring performances from the acclaimed cellist Jo Quail. Additionally, the deluxe album features the entire ‘The Otherworldly Big Band Experience’—a 2022 streaming event featuring Shaman Elephant.

The track ‘Gangandi,’ released as a preview to the deluxe album, holds a special place as the last song created before the ‘Heimdal’ recording sessions. Despite its unique style, which set it apart from the rest of the album, it became a cherished piece, blending elements of folk rock, early Mayhem, and King Crimson. The song was initially included only in the most exclusive vinyl versions of the album.

In continuing the celebration, Enslaved also released an alternative version of ‘Forest Dweller,’ featuring Jo Quail, accompanied by a visualizer video by Costin Chioreanu. Ivar Bjørnson of Enslaved highlighted the honor of working with Quail, noting her unique style and powerful interpretation. Quail’s contributions, which were deeply respectful of the existing compositions, enhanced the tracks without diverting from their original intent. This collaboration underlined the artistic kinship between the two camps, resulting in a treasured partnership.

Quail expressed her admiration for Enslaved, praising their ability to deepen their compositions with each release. She found the opportunity to collaborate with Enslaved both an honor and an exciting challenge. Her respectful approach to the fully developed tracks allowed her to enhance the existing story arcs, resulting in a collaboration she treasures. Quail’s cello work adds a new dimension to the track, and Bjørnson noted the excitement of branching out musically.

Tours

European Tour 2024

Enslaved is set to perform a highly anticipated concert at Rockefeller in Oslo on October 19th, 2024. This event is part of their European tour with Svalbard and Wayfarer, offering fans a unique opportunity to witness their captivating live show. The tour also includes significant stops such as the Bloodstock Festival in the United Kingdom, Summer Breeze in Germany, and the Mexico Metal Fest, underscoring the tour’s extensive reach and the band’s international acclaim.

At the Rockefeller show in Oslo, fans can expect a dynamic performance that showcases Enslaved’s blend of progressive black metal with Viking and Norse mythology themes. The venue, Rockefeller, located in the heart of Oslo, is known for its intimate setting and excellent acoustics, making it an ideal location for experiencing the band’s intricate soundscapes live.

The European leg of the tour began in March 2024, covering various cities including London, Paris, Milan, and Berlin. This tour marks Enslaved’s first European club tour since 2018, making it a momentous occasion for the band and their followers. As they celebrate the 30th anniversary of their iconic debut album ‘Vikingligr Veldi,’ Enslaved promises a memorable and powerful performance for both long-time fans and new listeners.

Latin American Tour 2024

Enslaved has officially announced their highly anticipated Latin American tour for 2024. The tour, spanning four major cities in November, promises to captivate metal fans across the continent. It begins on November 8th in Bogotá, Colombia, at the MxMF Col Festival, where the initial performance is expected to set a high-energy tone, showcasing the band’s intricate musicianship and atmospheric soundscapes.

Following the Bogotá show, Enslaved will perform in Santiago, Chile, at CL Rock on November 10th, offering Chilean fans a rare chance to experience the band’s dynamic stage presence. The tour continues in Buenos Aires, Argentina, at Uniclub on November 13th, marking a significant event for the local metal community.

The tour concludes on November 16th in Mexico City, Mexico, at the MxMF festival. This final show promises to be a grand finale, emphasizing the band’s enduring global appeal and their commitment to engaging with fans in diverse regions. Fans are advised to secure tickets early for this landmark event in Latin American metal music.

Conclusion

Enslaved’s journey from their early days in the Norwegian black metal scene to their current status as progressive metal pioneers is a testament to their artistic vision and creative evolution. Their willingness to innovate, combined with their deep connection to their cultural heritage, has resulted in a body of work that is both groundbreaking and deeply resonant.

As they continue to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of their genre, Enslaved remains a vital and influential force in the world of metal. Their legacy is one of constant evolution and unyielding dedication to their craft, inspiring musicians and listeners alike to embrace the transformative power of music.