Bathory (band)

Bathory was a Swedish extreme metal band formed in Vällingby, Stockholm in 1983. Considered one of the most influential acts in extreme metal, Bathory is credited with pioneering both black metal and Viking metal subgenres. The band's sole constant member and driving force was Quorthon (born Tomas Forsberg), who wrote the music and lyrics, and played most of the instruments on Bathory's albums.

History:

Bathory's early work, exemplified by albums such as Bathory (1984), The Return...... (1985), and Under the Sign of the Black Mark (1987), is characterized by its raw, lo-fi production, Satanic lyrical themes, and aggressive, fast-paced music. This sound is widely regarded as foundational to the development of black metal.

Around 1988, with the album Blood Fire Death, Bathory began to incorporate elements of Norse mythology and Viking themes into their music. This shift culminated in albums like Hammerheart (1990), Twilight of the Gods (1991), and Blood on Ice (1996), which are now considered cornerstones of the Viking metal genre. These albums featured slower tempos, epic arrangements, and lyrics inspired by Norse sagas and Eddas.

Later in their career, Bathory explored different musical directions, including thrash metal influenced albums such as Requiem (1994) and Octagon (1995), and experimental rock/metal compositions.

Legacy:

Bathory's influence on extreme metal is undeniable. Their early black metal recordings helped define the genre's sound and aesthetic, while their later Viking metal albums inspired countless bands to explore Norse mythology and Viking themes in their music. Quorthon's songwriting and musical vision made Bathory one of the most innovative and influential bands in the history of heavy metal.

Death of Quorthon:

Quorthon died of heart failure in June 2004 at the age of 38. His death marked the end of Bathory.

Discography (Selected):

• Bathory (1984)
• The Return...... (1985)
• Under the Sign of the Black Mark (1987)
• Blood Fire Death (1988)
• Hammerheart (1990)
• Twilight of the Gods (1991)
• Blood on Ice (1996)

See also:

• Black Metal
• Viking Metal
• Quorthon