Formation Year: 1993
Origin: Jessheim, Norway
Genre: Symphonic black metal
Current Members: Shagrath, Silenoz, Galder, Daray, Gerlioz, Victor Brandt
Record Labels: No Colours, Spikefarm, Cacophonous, Century Media, Nuclear Blast
Name Origin: Derived from ‘Dimmuborgir’, a volcanic formation in Iceland meaning ‘dark cities’ or ‘darkcastles/fortresses’.
The name itself evokes a sense of mystery and darkness. If you’re into symphonic black metal, you know that achieving the right blend of orchestral grandeur and blistering metal intensity is no easy feat. Yet, this Norwegian band has been doing it since 1993, crafting a unique sound that’s as haunting as powerful.
Origins and Evolution
Formed in Jessheim, Norway, Dimmu Borgir derives its name from ‘Dimmuborgir’, a volcanic formation in Iceland that translates to ‘dark cities’ or ‘dark castles/fortresses’. The band’s music has evolved from raw black metal roots to a more symphonic and orchestral sound, incorporating elements of classical music that set them apart in the metal world.
The Symphonic Black Metal Pioneers
- Formation Year: 1993
- Origin: Jessheim, Norway
- Genre: Symphonic Black Metal
Current Lineup and Members
Dimmu Borgir’s lineup has seen numerous changes over the years, but the current official lineup includes:
- Shagrath (Stian Tomt Thoresen): Lead vocals (1995-present), drums (1994-1995)
- Silenoz (Sven Atle Kopperud): Rhythm guitar (1993-present), lead vocals (1993-1995)
- Galder (Tom Rune Anderson): Lead guitar (2000-present)
Session/Touring Members:
- Daray (Dariusz Brzozowski): Drums (2008-present)
- Gerlioz (Geir Bratland): Keyboards, synthesizers (2010-present)
- Victor Brandt: Bass (2018-present)
A Brief History of Lineup Changes
- 1993: Silenoz (rhythm guitar, lead vocals), Tjodalv (lead guitar), and Shagrath (drums) form the band.
- 1995: Shagrath takes over lead vocals, and Tjodalv switches to drums.
- 1996: Nagash replaces Brynjard Tristan on bass.
- 1997: Astennu joined as lead guitarist, and Stian Aarstad was replaced by Kimberly Goss temporarily on keyboards.
- 1998: Mustis becomes the full-time keyboardist.
- 1999: Major shifts as Tjodalv and Nagash leave, replaced by Nicholas Barker on drums and ICS Vortex on bass/clean vocals.
- 2000: Galder joins as lead guitarist.
- 2004-2008: The drum position saw instability until Daray joined as a full-time drummer in 2008.
- 2009-2010: Mustis and ICS Vortex leave, and Snowy Shaw briefly joins before Gerlioz becomes the session keyboardist.
- 2018: Victor Brandt joins as session bassist.
Dimmu Borgir T-Shirt
This Dimmu Borgir T-shirt is necessary if you enjoy powerful visuals and intense, atmospheric music. The detailed artwork, inspired by the themes of darkness and mysticism in their “In Sorte Diaboli” album, reflects the band’s ability to blend music with intricate, almost gothic storytelling through visual art. It’s more than just a tee—it’s a piece of the band’s dark legacy you can wear.
Discography: A Journey Through Darkness
Studio Albums:
- For All Tid (1995)
- Stormblåst (1996)
- Enthrone Darkness Triumphant (1997)
- Spiritual Black Dimensions (1999)
- Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia (2001)
- Death Cult Armageddon (2003)
- In Sorte Diaboli (2007)
- Abrahadabra (2010)
- Eonian (2018)
EPs:
- Inn i evighetens mørke (1994)
- Devil’s Path (1996)
- Godless Savage Garden (1998)
- Alive in Torment (2001)
- World Misanthropy (2002)
- Dimmu Borgir (2017)
Must-Listen Songs
For those new to Dimmu Borgir or looking to revisit their classics, here are some iconic tracks:
Progenies of the Great Apocalypse (2003)
Mourning Palace (1997)
The Serpentine Offering (2007)
Puritania (2001)
Gateways (2010)
Kings of the Carnival Creation (2001)
Spellbound (By the Devil) (1997)
The Insight and the Catharsis (1999)
Interdimensional Summit (2018)
Vredesbyrd (2003)
Awards and Accolades
Dimmu Borgir has not only captivated audiences but also garnered critical acclaim:
- Spellemannprisen (Norwegian Grammy) for Best Metal Album: “Death Cult Armageddon” (2003) and “In Sorte Diaboli” (2007)
- Spellemannprisen for Best Video: “The Serpentine Offering” (2007)
- First Norwegian band since a-ha to crack the US Top 50 with “In Sorte Diaboli” (2007)
- Multiple #1 albums in Norway
- Gold record in Norway for “In Sorte Diaboli”
Interesting Tidbits
- Their music evolved from raw black metal to a more symphonic and orchestral sound.
- Collaborated with renowned orchestras, including the Norwegian Radio Orchestra and Prague Philharmonic Orchestra.
- The album Death Cult Armageddon featured the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra.
- Performed at major festivals like Ozzfest, Wacken Open Air, and Hellfest.
- Lyrics often explore themes of darkness, anti-religion, and Norse mythology.
- Sold over 400,000 albums in the United States alone.
- The 2010 album Abrahadabra features over 100 musicians, including a full choir and orchestra.
- Known for elaborate costumes and theatrical performances.
- Influenced numerous bands in the symphonic black metal genre and beyond.
- In 2024, former members ICS Vortex, Mustis, and Tjodalv rejoined the band on stage at the Inferno festival in Oslo.
- Released a collection of cover songs titled Inspiratio Profanus in December 2023.
- Their music has been featured in various media, including video games and films.
Theatrical Performances and Iconic Style
Dimmu Borgir’s live performances are nothing short of spectacular. The band is renowned for its elaborate costumes and theatrical stage presence, which create a dark and immersive experience for its audience. If you ever get to see them live, don’t miss it!
Influence and Legacy
Over the years, Dimmu Borgir has left an indelible mark on the symphonic black metal genre. Their innovative blend of metal and orchestral music has inspired countless bands and musicians. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, Dimmu Borgir’s legacy is undeniable.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dimmu_Borgir
https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/dimmu-borgir
https://metalstorm.net/bands/timeline.php?band_id=86&bandname=Dimmu
