Stormblåst cover

Stormblåst

Dimmu Borgir · 1995

49 min · 10 tracks · symphonic black metal

Melodic black metal intertwines with symphonic elements, creating an atmospheric landscape of dark and haunting beauty.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Alt lys er svunnet hen Start here — The opening track establishes the album's atmospheric intensity with its haunting melodies and powerful orchestration, setting a precedent for the sound that follows.
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    Broderskapets ring — This track features intricate guitar work and symphonic arrangements, showcasing the band's ability to blend aggression with melodic beauty effectively.
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    Antikrist — With its relentless pace and fierce instrumentation, Antikrist captures the raw energy of black metal while maintaining a strong melodic core that defines the album's character.
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    Guds fortapelse – Åpenbaring av dommedag — The closing track wraps up the album's narrative with a dramatic composition, blending orchestral elements with aggressive riffs to create a climactic finish.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album effectively combines melodic black metal with orchestral elements, creating a distinct atmosphere while maintaining strong cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a sweeping orchestral intro that sets a dark, atmospheric tone before transitioning into fast-paced melodic riffs.
  • Several tracks incorporate tempo changes, alternating between blast beats and slower, more melodic passages, creating dynamic contrasts throughout.
  • The final track concludes with an extended instrumental outro that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering sense of unease.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with emotional peaks
  • haunting soundscapes for reflection
  • immersive journey through darkness
  • intense listening for focused sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat and quick songs
  • avoid orchestral arrangements

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Elevated the symphonic black metal genre, gaining wider recognition for the band.
Themes
Nordic mythology· dark orchestral landscapes· apocalyptic imagery
Career context
Released in 1995, Stormblåst is Dimmu Borgir's second studio album, following their debut For All Tid. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their presence in the black metal scene, increasingly incorporating orchestral arrangements to enhance their sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Cradle of Filth· Emperor· Nightwish

Tracklist

  • 1 Alt lys er svunnet hen Start here 6:08
  • 2 Broderskapets ring 5:09
  • 3 Når sjelen hentes til helvete 4:34
  • 4 Sorgens kammer 6:20
  • 5 Da den kristne satte livet til 3:09
  • 6 Stormblåst 6:16
  • 7 Antikrist 3:43
  • 8 Dødsferd 5:30
  • 9 Vinder fra en ensom grav 4:26
  • 10 Guds fortapelse – Åpenbaring av dommedag 4:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata