Bathory's "The Return of the Darkness and Evil," unleashed in 1985, is a menacing manifesto of early black metal. Recorded in Stockholm, its raw production and occult themes set the stage for the genre's ascent. A pivotal moment in Bathory's discography, shaping the trajectory of extreme black metal
Released in 1987, Bathory's "The Return… of the Darkness and Evil" 12" vinyl LP album stands as a groundbreaking and influential work in the realm of black metal. Produced by Quorthon and Boss, this album marks a significant shift in Bathory's sound, delivering an uncompromising and ferocious musical experience that solidifies their status as pioneers of the genre.
"The Return… of the Darkness and Evil" unleashes a torrent of darkness and evil through its raw and aggressive sound. Bathory's approach to black metal on this album pushes boundaries with its menacing atmosphere, relentless drumming, dissonant guitar riffs, and Quorthon's haunting vocals. The album's overall aura captures the essence of the genre, forging a path for future black metal acts.
Bathory's evolution and innovation are evident throughout the album. As their third full-length release, "The Return… of the Darkness and Evil" showcases the band's growth in songwriting and musical execution.
The production work by Quorthon (Thomas Börje Forsberg) and Boss (Börje Forsberg) adds to the album's raw and unfiltered aesthetic. The intentionally lo-fi production enhances the album's sinister atmosphere, emphasizing the raw power and intensity of Bathory's performance. This approach has become a hallmark of black metal, influencing countless bands in the years to come.
"The Return… of the Darkness and Evil" delves into controversial themes and imagery, reflecting Bathory's dedication to embracing the dark and extreme aspects of black metal. The album's lyrical content explores themes of occultism, Satanism, and darkness, pushing the boundaries of conventional norms and challenging societal expectations.
"The Return… of the Darkness and Evil" cements Bathory's enduring legacy and influence on the black metal genre. The album's impact on subsequent generations of black metal bands and fans cannot be overstated. Bathory's fearless exploration of extreme musical territories and their unapologetic embrace of darkness set the stage for the development and evolution of black metal as a genre.
Swedish Extreme Black Metal, Viking Metal
Under One Flag FLAG 9
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1987 United Kingdom ( UK )
Record label information:
Produced by Quorthon and Boss
Stig Börje "The Boss" Forsberg was a record label owner, music producer and drummer. He was father of Quorthon ( Thomas Forsberg ) and has produced several of Bathory's as well as albums for "The OZ".
Recorded and mixed by Boss
Electra Studio, Stockholm, Sweden
Album cover design by Quorthon
Album fron cover photography: Gunnar Silins
Album back cover photo: Bathory
Quorthon ( real-name: Thomas Börje Forsberg ) is founding member of the Bathory band (1983 ) and is singer and guitarist in the band. He has been with Bathory from 1983 until 2004 when he was found dead, due to heart failure.
Stefan Larsson - Drummer with the Swedish Black Metal band "Bathory" from 1984 until 1986. Before joining Bathory, Larsson played with the punk band: Obsklass.
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
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