Review MORTEM “Mørkelid”

Mortem is one of the pioneering bands of the Norwegian black metal scene. Formed in Oslo in 1987, the band released its Slow Death demo in 1989. Driven by Marius Vold and Steinar “Sverd” Johnsen, the demo was produced by none other than Euronymous and Dead of Mayhem. Shortly after its release, however, Mortem was laid to rest, with its members going on to form or join influential acts such as Arcturus and Thorns.

Three decades later, Mortem returned with the single “Ravnsvart” in 2019, which also became the title track of the band’s long-awaited debut album. Considering the band’s formation in 1987, Mortem certainly belongs to the select group of bands with one of the longest gaps between their foundation and the release of a first full-length album.

Now the Norwegians are back with Mørkelid, their sophomore effort, ready to unleash another dose of pitch-black metal upon the world. The album’s lead single, “Skyggeånd,” is a perfect introduction to what listeners can expect. Black as coal at its core, the song seamlessly combines atmospheric passages with blistering bursts of infernal aggression. Built around a hypnotic, repetitive main motif, it overwhelms the listener with relentless intensity. Inspired by a nightmare Marius Vold once had, the track radiates an eerie and unsettling atmosphere. Well-executed tempo shifts give this eight-minute centerpiece an excellent sense of flow, while the haunting, slow-paced middle section provides a dramatic contrast to the furious blasts surrounding it.

“Aftermath” is another highlight, delivering uncompromising aggression while incorporating subtle piano passages that reveal the band’s impressive attention to detail. Throughout the album, Vold’s vicious, barking vocals add a sinister edge to every track, particularly on “The Mighty Odious” and the title track, “Mørkelid.”

Norwegian black metal has never been solely about relentless blast beats and breakneck speed, and Mortem fully embraces that philosophy. While those elements are certainly present, the band takes a broader and more atmospheric approach. Carefully layered keyboards enhance the album’s dark, haunting spirit and add depth to an already powerful production. “Den Sanne Gud” perfectly illustrates this balance. Driven by a measured pace, an unmistakably evil aura, and a thoroughly blackened soul, the song captures the essence of what makes Mørkelid so compelling.

Mørkelid showcases the strength of a veteran band that has successfully returned to honor the roots of Norwegian black metal while bringing its sound into the present day. It is a masterfully crafted album, bound together by a Luciferian spirit that runs like a common thread through every composition. Welcome back, Mortem.