Origins and Formation (1991–1992)
Formed in Notodden, Norway in 1991, Emperor was the brainchild of teenagers Ihsahn (Vegard Tveitan) and Samoth (Tomas Haugen). After experimenting under names like Embryonic and Xerasia, they settled on “Emperor” and were joined by bassist Mortiis. Their vision was to blend the aggression of black metal with atmospheric elements, forming what would become the foundation of symphonic black metal.
Early Demos and the Underground Scene
Emperor’s first major release, the 1992 demo Wrath of the Tyrant, was a raw, lo-fi production that quickly circulated through the black metal underground. This demo led to their first live appearance and sparked attention from Euronymous of Mayhem, connecting Emperor to the infamous Helvete record shop and the growing Norwegian black metal scene.
EPs and Scene Influence
In late 1992, the band released the Emperor EP, followed by As the Shadows Rise. During this time, they solidified a classic black metal sound: icy tremolo-picked riffs, shrieked vocals, and haunting keyboard layers. Drummer Faust (Bård Eithun) joined, and their lineup became more closely tied to the controversial Black Circle in Oslo.
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Click on the album cover to see a more detailed review of Emporer’s “Wrath of the Tyrant” release |
Legal Troubles and Lineup Changes
In 1994, turmoil struck. Samoth was imprisoned for his involvement in church arson, and Faust was arrested for murder. Mortiis left the band and later formed his own solo project. Despite these setbacks, Emperor recruited bassist Tchort and prepared for their full-length debut with producer Pytten at Grieghallen Studio.
Debut Album: In the Nightside Eclipse (1994)
Released in 1994, In the Nightside Eclipse is hailed as a cornerstone of symphonic black metal. It combined relentless riffs with orchestral synths and mythic lyricism, inspired by Norwegian landscapes and dark fantasy. Songs like “I Am the Black Wizards” and “Cosmic Keys to My Creations and Times” showcased Emperor’s ambitious scope and technical depth.
Despite being recorded amid personal and legal chaos, the album’s production and complexity marked it as one of black metal’s most polished and influential early releases.
Legacy and Influence
Emperor’s early work helped shape the aesthetics and sound of the second wave of black metal. They stood apart by incorporating symphonic structures without sacrificing intensity. By 1997, with the release of Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk, Emperor had risen beyond controversy and earned a place as black metal royalty.
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