True North (Borknagar album)

True North is the eleventh full-length studio album by the Norwegian avant-garde metal band Borknagar. It was released on September 27, 2019, via Century Media Records.

The album sees the return of original vocalist ICS Vortex (Simen Hestnæs) and features new drummer Bjørn Dugstad Rønnow. It continues Borknagar's exploration of progressive and atmospheric black metal, blending extreme metal elements with folk influences, melodic passages, and philosophical themes.

True North was recorded at various studios in Norway, and mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios in Sweden. The album's artwork was created by Marcelo Vasco.

Thematically, True North deals with concepts of individuality, self-discovery, and the search for meaning in a complex and often chaotic world. The lyrics explore philosophical and existential questions, touching upon nature, spirituality, and the human condition.

The album received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its musicianship, songwriting, and overall atmosphere. It is considered a strong addition to Borknagar's discography and a showcase of their continued evolution within the metal genre.