Besatt (Norway)
Besatt is an enigmatic Avant-garde Black Metal project hailing from Grimstad, Norway. Formed in 2021, the band is a distinct entity from the well-known Polish Black Metal band of the same name. They represent a new wave of Norwegian extreme music that moves away from traditional Satanism, opting instead for a “psycho-psychedelic” exploration of horror and the human psyche.
Band Overview
- Origin: Grimstad, Agder, Norway
- Formed: 2021
- Genre: Avant-garde Black Metal
- Lyrical Themes: Slasher horror, mental illness, and psychological dread.
- Language: Norwegian
History & Creative Concept
The band was founded by the duo Arvid “Holtergeist” and Erik “Body Snatcher” West. Their background is uniquely tied to the horror genre; the two previously worked as video clerks at a local shop, where they spent their time curating obscure slasher and cult horror movies for the community.
This cinematic obsession heavily bleeds into their music. Besatt’s approach to Black Metal is theatrical and unsettling, focusing on the atmosphere of 1970s and 80s horror films rather than the “Second Wave” tropes of church burning or Viking lore. They describe their sound as a nightmare from which one cannot arise, utilizing dissonant riffs and experimental song structures.
Featured Album: Hjemkomst
Released on February 10, 2023, Hjemkomst (Norwegian for “Homecoming”) is the band’s first major full-length statement. The album was recorded at Squirrel Road Studios and mixed/mastered by Leif Erik Westergren at The Stash House.
Album Characteristics:
- Atmosphere: A blend of raw, aggressive Black Metal with eerie, psychedelic interludes that mimic the tension of a suspense film.
- Production: The production is intentionally organic and cold, avoiding modern “over-polished” standards to maintain an underground, gritty feel.
- Concept: The title suggests a return to one’s roots or a haunted arrival, fitting the “slasher” theme where the protagonist often returns to a place of trauma.
Current Lineup
The band operates primarily as a core duo, occasionally utilizing session musicians for live or studio purposes:
- Arvid “Holtergeist”: Vocals, Concepts
- Erik “Body Snatcher” West: Guitars, Bass, Composition
Pro Tip: If you are a fan of bands like Dødheimsgard or the avant-garde leanings of Slagmaur, Hjemkomst is a must-listen for its weird, unsettling vibe.
10022023 | 🇳🇴 Norway 🇳🇴 | Band: Besatt | Genre: Avant-garde Black Metal | Album: Hjemkomst
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