Enslaved – Heimdal (2xLP)

"Heimdal" is both a departure and a return to roots forged over three decades ago in the turbulent birth pangs of the Norwegian black metal scene. The album is named after Heimdal, arguably the most mysterious being in Norse mythology.

The album features the psychedelic track "Caravans To The Outer Worlds" from last year's EP of the same name. Bonus versions of the album include an additional track, "Gangandi," as well as a Blu-Ray copy of the stunning 2021 streaming event Otherworldly Big Band Experience - the band's most audacious project to date, performed in conjunction with Norwegian prog band Shaman Elephant. The kaleidoscopic stage show features an outstanding setlist covering Enslaved's career both past and present.

"Heimdal" was produced by Enslaved's own musicians Ivar Bjørnson, Iver Sandøy and Grutle Kjellson. The mix was done by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios, and the final edit was mastered by Tony Lindgren. The concept and lyrics for "Heimdal" were, as always, developed by Ivar Bjørnson and Grutle Kjellson in tandem.

The album was recorded mainly at Solslottet Studios in Bergen, owned by Iver Sandøy. Solslottet is an offshoot of the well-known Duper Studios, where the drums were recorded and engineered by Iver himself, with assistance from Vegard Lemme. The main guitars, bass, pianos, organ and vocals were also recorded at Solslottet. Arve "Ice Dale" Isdal recorded his guitar leads at his own Earshot & Conclave Studios. The finishing touches and a few experimental ideas were added at Overlook Hotel using Solslottet's mobile studio rig. All the music for Heimdal was written and recorded at Ivar Bjørnson's own Crow's Nest Studio.