Battles in the North cover

Battles in the North

Immortal · 1995

35 min · 10 tracks · black metal · death metal · thrash metal

Fierce tremolo picking and atmospheric keyboards forge a chilling, relentless soundscape drenched in icy melancholy.

Why this album works

The album is significant for its critical reception, being hailed as a cornerstone of the second wave of black metal. It features prominently in discussions about the genre's development and has influenced countless bands that followed, making it a touchstone for fans and musicians alike.
Best for
steady, consistent energy levels long, immersive listening sessions atmospheric background focus
Context
Released in 1995, 'Battles in the North' was Immortal's third studio album, solidifying their trademark style of black metal. This album followed the acclaimed 'Pure Holocaust' and showcased their evolution in sound and thematic depth, reinforcing their position as pioneers within the Norwegian black metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Celtic Frost· Witchery· Hellhammer

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Battles in the North Standout 4:11
  • 2 Grim and Frostbitten Kingdoms 2:47
  • 3 Descent Into Eminent Silence 3:09
  • 4 Throned by Blackstorms 3:38
  • 5 Moonrise Fields of Sorrow 2:24
  • 6 Cursed Realms of the Winterdemons Standout 3:59
  • 7 At the Stormy Gates of Mist 2:59
  • 8 Through the Halls of Eternity 3:35
  • 9 Circling Above in Time Before Time 3:56
  • 10 Blashyrkh (Mighty Ravendark) Standout 4:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata