Burzum's early black metal influence is encapsulated in the rare 7" vinyl single album, "Once Emperor." Founded in 1991 by Varg Vikernes, also known as Count Grishnackh, Burzum played a pivotal role in shaping the genre. This limited edition release offers a glimpse into the band's formative years, featuring the elusive Rehearsal '92 Recording and contributing to the enduring legacy of Norwegian black metal.
In the early '90s, a musical subculture emerged from the shadows, wielding an eerie and unconventional sound that would come to be known as black metal. Among the pioneers of this genre was Burzum, a Norwegian project led by the enigmatic Varg Vikernes, also known as Count Grishnackh. This article delves into the time period of Burzum's inception, specifically focusing on the rare and limited edition Rehearsal '92 Recording, encapsulating the essence of a crucial moment in the history of black metal.
The Birth of Burzum and the Norwegian Black Metal Scene:
The year 1991 marked the birth of Burzum, a musical entity that would play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of black metal. Varg Vikernes, a controversial and mysterious figure, founded the project and quickly gained prominence within the burgeoning Norwegian black metal scene. With his pseudonym Count Grishnackh, Vikernes became a central figure in the movement, known for both his musical contributions and his controversial ideologies.
The Rehearsal '92 Recording: A Rare Glimpse into Burzum's Artistry:
The Rehearsal '92 Recording stands as a testament to Burzum's commitment to pushing the boundaries of black metal. This rare and limited edition vinyl LP album captures a moment in time when Vikernes and his musical vision were reaching new heights. The rehearsal recordings provide an intimate glimpse into the creative process, showcasing the raw and unfiltered essence of Burzum's early sound.
Production and Artistry:
The production of the Rehearsal '92 Recording reflects the lo-fi aesthetic that was characteristic of the early black metal scene. The use of minimalistic recording techniques contributes to the raw and primal nature of the music. Vikernes' haunting vocals, accompanied by distorted guitars and minimalist percussion, create an atmosphere that is both captivating and unsettling.
The limited edition vinyl LP format adds a layer of exclusivity to this recording, making it a sought-after collector's item for enthusiasts of black metal and vinyl aficionados alike. The album cover, likely designed by Vikernes himself, is a visual representation of the dark and atmospheric qualities present in Burzum's music.
Legacy and Controversies:
Burzum's legacy extends beyond its musical contributions, as the project became entwined with controversies surrounding Vikernes. Legal issues, including arson and murder convictions, added a layer of infamy to Burzum's narrative. Despite these controversies, the impact of the early recordings, such as the Rehearsal '92 Recording, continues to resonate within the black metal community.
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Music Genre: Norwegian Black/Death Metal |
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Record Format: 7" Single |
Track Listing of: "Once Emperor" |
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The Songs/tracks on "Once Emperor" are
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Description
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).
Description
"Once Emperor" Record Label Details
Burzum is a Norwegian black metal band that was formed by musician and songwriter Varg Vikernes in 1991. Despite its relatively short career, Burzum has left a lasting impact on the black metal scene and has become one of the most influential and controversial bands in the genre.
Burzum's early music was characterized by raw and atmospheric production, with an emphasis on unconventional song structures and unconventional instrumentation. The band's lyrics often dealt with themes of nature, heathenism, and anti-Christianity, and were often written in a pseudo-medieval style that reflected Vikernes' interest in Norse mythology and paganism. This blend of musical and lyrical elements helped establish Burzum as one of the pioneers of the second wave of black metal, along with other influential bands such as Mayhem and Darkthrone.
However, despite its musical influence, Burzum is perhaps best known for its association with the wave of church burnings and murders that took place in Norway in the early 1990s. Vikernes was sentenced to 21 years in prison for the murder of Mayhem guitarist Øystein "Euronymous" Aarseth, as well as for his role in the arson of several churches. These events have cast a long shadow over Burzum's legacy, and many black metal fans and musicians continue to debate the merits of Vikernes' music and ideologies.
Despite this controversy, Burzum has continued to release music from prison, with several albums appearing in the years following Vikernes' incarceration. These releases have continued to reflect Vikernes' fascination with nature and heathenism, as well as his antipathy towards Christianity and modern society. In recent years, Vikernes has also become a controversial figure in the far-right, white nationalist movement, and his views and beliefs have drawn criticism from many quarters.