Det som engang var
Burzum · 1993
39 min · 8 tracks · black metal
Dark, hypnotic soundscapes intertwine with raw, atmospheric black metal, creating an eerie sense of desolation and introspection.
Top tracks — play these first
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Key to the Gate — This track encapsulates Burzum's signature blend of minimalist melodies and expansive soundscapes, showcasing Vikernes' unique approach to composition.
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En ring til å herske — A lengthy exploration of dark ambient elements intertwined with traditional black metal, this track exemplifies the album's thematic depth and musical complexity.
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Lost Wisdom — Combining haunting vocals with a stark instrumental backdrop, this track highlights the emotional weight and philosophical undertones present throughout the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's atmospheric depth and raw production contribute to its lasting influence in black metal.
What we noticed
- The album features long tracks that often exceed six minutes, allowing for extended development of musical themes.
- It employs minimalistic guitar riffs layered with ambient synths, creating a dense atmospheric sound.
- Vocals are delivered in a harsh, raspy style that blends into the instrumentation rather than standing out as a separate element.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- long, immersive listening sessions
- atmospheric background focus
- gradual builds and payoffs
- steady, consistent energy levels
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Det som engang var is Burzum's second album, released two years after his controversial debut, Filosofem. At this point in his career, Varg Vikernes was solidifying his influence in the black metal scene, establishing a distinct sound that would resonate within the genre for decades. The album showcases Vikernes' growing artistic vision while reflecting his personal and ideological struggles.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Darkthrone· Mayhem· Emperor
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Den onde kysten 2:20
- 2 Key to the Gate 5:14
- 3 En ring til å herske 7:10
- 4 Lost Wisdom 4:38
- 5 Han som reiste 4:51
- 6 Når himmelen klarner 3:50
- 7 Snu mikrokosmos tegn 9:36
- 8 Svarte troner 2:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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