What makes Nordland II by Bathory notable?

'Nordland II' is notable for its contribution to the Viking metal subgenre, influencing countless bands with its dramatic compositions and thematic depth. The album received positive reviews from fans and critics alike, affirming Bathory's status as a seminal force in heavy metal history. By the time 'Nordland II' was released in 2003, Bathory had transitioned from their early black metal roots to a more expansive sound that embraced Viking metal elements. This album followed the critically acclaimed 'Nordland I' and continued to solidify the band's legacy as pioneers in the genre, showcasing Quorthon's unique vision and musical evolution.

How many songs are on Nordland II?

Nordland II has 10 tracks, running approximately 63 minutes.

Nordland II

Bathory · 2003

63 min · 10 tracks · black metal

A sweeping epic blending atmospheric black metal with Viking themes, rich melodies, and intricate storytelling.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Blooded Shore — This track epitomizes the album’s blend of melodic richness and heavy instrumentation while exploring themes of conquest and nostalgia for lost lands.
→
Death and Resurrection of a Northern Son — With its epic structure and narrative depth, this song captures the essence of Bathory’s Viking motifs through powerful lyrics and dynamic shifts in tempo.
→
Vinland — This track stands out for its exploration of Norse mythology and the discovery of Vinland, combining historical references with breathtaking musical landscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album features strong thematic storytelling and varied compositions, characteristic of Bathory's Viking metal evolution.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brief orchestral piece, setting a grand tone before transitioning into heavier tracks that feature layered guitar harmonies.
Several tracks incorporate tempo shifts, moving from slower, atmospheric sections to faster, aggressive passages typical of black metal.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Fanfare 3:36
2 Blooded Shore 5:46
3 Sea Wolf 5:26
4 Vinland 6:38
5 The Land 6:22
6 Death and Resurrection of a Northern Son 8:30
7 The Messenger 10:01
8 Flash of the Silverhammer 4:09
9 The Wheel of Sun 12:26
10 Instrumental 0:23

What to play next

Listen next

In Memory of Quorthon

2006

Go back to

Nordland I

2002

Full Bathory discography Artists like Bathory

black metal thrash metal viking metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata