Helheim

Helheim are a Norwegian black metal and viking metal group from Bergen, active from 1992. The band is associated with black metal, metal and viking metal, and the line-up given here is Tom Korsvold, V'gandr and Frode Røsjø.

History

The band begins in 1992, when V'gandr and H'grimnir decide to form an extreme metal project, later joined by drummer Hrymr. In 1993 Nidhogg joins, and the group starts playing live at festivals in Bergen to build experience. Their first demo, also titled Helheim, appears later that year, but they do not circulate it beyond Norway. They then write new material after deciding the first recording is not strong enough.

In 1994 they release Nidr ok Nordr liggr Helvegr, which leads to interest from the German label Solistitium Records. The group signs a two-record deal and records their debut album Jormundgand in Grieghallen in 1995. This is followed by a European tour in 1996. After returning, they work on Av Norrøn Ætt, which is also recorded in Grieghallen but is described as musically different from the debut.

Recordings and releases

In 1999 Ars Metalli signs the band for one album, and Lindheim, on synth, and Thorbjørn, on lead guitar, join the group. Helheim then record the MCD Terrorveldet and the full-length Blod & Ild with producer Odd Kronheim at S.J.E.F. studio. Both releases receive strong reviews, and the band also makes a music video for Jernskogen.

In 2001 they record the MCD Helsviti with Pytten at Grieghallen, but it is not released by Ars Metalli. Their next album, Yersinia Pestis, is also recorded and produced by Pytten in Grieghallen and is released by Massacre Records. The album becomes an important breakthrough for the band in Norway. Massacre also signs a contract to release Helsviti, though that release does not follow.

Lindheim leaves the band in 2005. Helheim then release The Journeys and Experiences of Death, a concept album about death cults and Viking beliefs around death. For the first copies, it is issued as a double digipack with Helsviti as a bonus disc. Dark Essence Records releases the album, and the band later issues Kaoskult in 2008.

Live activity and name

By 2008 the band is playing Norwegian and European tours, as well as shows in Bergen and various European festivals. That year they also draw attention with an acoustic concert in Klosteret kindergarten. The name Helheim refers to the realm of Hel, a place ruled by the goddess Hel, daughter of Loki and Angerboda and sister of the Midgard Serpent and Fenris.