Keyboardist, majestic clean vocalist, and occasional guitarist for Enslaved Herbrand Larsen has called it quits after being with the band for 12 years. Larsen says his time without Enslaved will be spend recording, mixing, and mastering bands, and that his departure comes with zero drama.
Sure, it sucks that Larsen won't be playing keyboards for Enslaved anymore… but man, those cleans vocals are not going to be easy to replace. Larsen's voice just fit Enslaved's music perfectly and has such a smooth timbre that finding a new clean vocalist might be a bit of a challenge.
Larsen currently owns the Conclave & Earshot Studios with Enslaved guitarist Ice Dale. Here's what he had to say regarding his departure.
"It was not an easy decision to come to! I love Enslaved and will always do. There is no drama or anger involved in this. I think we all understand why this is the best decision both for me and the band.
"I don't have that 100% drive anymore, the drive you need to be in a band like Enslaved. Only 99% and that is not enough. It's hard to explain but this is how it is.
"I remember all the shows we have done together. All the places we have been and all the fans that we've met. I remember meeting fans, telling me that our music really means something to them. I remember traveling places I never thought I would see. I remember working with extremely talented people. I remember tough times, sad times but most of all, all the good times. You have all been a huge part of my life and will still be. For that, I'm truly grateful!
"I'm looking forward to spend more time in the studio. Recording, producing and mixing music. That's where I want my focus and my drive to be.
"To Arve, Cato, Grutle and Ivar, thank you for your friendship, your creativity and your support. I wouldn't be who I am today if it wasn't for you guys. I am sure you will be even better, stronger and more successful in the future. And you will still continue to be my friends and a big part of my life. Thank you!"
Here's Enslaved's entire statement regarding Larsen, and its recent shows in New York.
