Immortal, now just founding member Demonaz, has announced their new record War Against All for May 26 and is streaming the blackened title track below. And don't worry – it's intentionally just as fast as old Immortal.
"'War Against All' was the first track I wrote for this album," said Demonaz. "It's a fast one where the riffs are mostly inspired by my riffs from Battles in the North. The lyrics are in the true Blashyrkh battle feel and mood for an opening track too. The frosty, raw, and fast battle songs in this style mean everything to me. I will never forget the early years, or disappoint the fans with slowing down the pace."
On creating War Against All, Demonaz offered the most black metal answer possible. "Even though the studio work is necessary to get an ultimate recording, the writing process is obviously my favorite. I still write all the guitar riffs/music at home with the same old vibe, and the lyrics as well. The early days of black metal inspire me the most. Cold nights in the woods, on the mountains under the winter moon. That's what keeps the spirit alive, and the foundation to all our music."
Pre-orders for War Against All are available here. It's not clear who else played on War Against All, as the press release only mentions it features Demonaz and "some session members, like in earlier recordings."
War Against All was produced by Arve Isdal (Enslaved), and recorded at Conclave & Earshot Studio in Bergen, Norway by Herbrand Larsen and Isdal. The album was mastered by Iver Sandøy at Solslottet and given artwork by artist Mattias Frisk.
Demonaz also commented on working at Earshot & Conclave Studios, saying "It's actually the same studio where I recorded the guitars and vocals for Northern Chaos Gods. They also did a great job with the new album, and it was a pleasure to go back and work there again. I am especially pleased with the outcome on this one. It's got that cold-biting guitar sound, yet powerful production.
"Immortal have never compromised on the original vision, which is taking fans on a journey through Blashyrkh with our most grim and dark music, with every new release. These songs are no exception to this. I am proud of the final result, it's got a distinct expression, and I can 't wait to let the fans hear it!”
