Emperor
Bio
Why don’t Ihsahn and Samoth make a new Emperor album? When asked this question, the answer is always the same: why make a black metal album purely out of financial considerations?
That would go against everything their music stands for. Still, four albums was more than enough to be hailed as one of the most influential black metal bands ever. Emperor’s debut ‘In the Nightside Eclipse’ (1991) hit the metal scene like a tidal wave. Innovative due to the inclusion of orchestrations and keyboards, it’s hard to imagine the band members were just seventeen at the time of its inception. ‘Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk’ (1997) firmly established Emperor as the flagbearers of black metal and is still recognised as one of the most influential releases in the genre. ‘IX Equilibrium’ (1999) spread its tentacles beyond the realm of black metal with overwhelming speed, exceptional musicianship and omnipresent keyboards that create a symphonic feel. The amazingly complex ‘Prometheus’ (2001) and its progressive influences concluded Emperor’s recording career on a high note. Needless to say, this is a must-see for any black metal fan.
