Though not the flashiest black metal band of the Norwegian second wave, Emperor were arguably the best. What they lacked in destructive antics, the classically-oriented four-piece made up for in musicianship and grandiose scale, making ‘symphonic black metal’ something beautiful and thoughtful rather than just a bunch of absinthe and harpsichord. Now, to honor thirty years of bathing the world in organ-driven landscape metal, Emperor have announced a rare show, to be livestreamed across the globe.
Emperor will perform A Night of Emperial Wrath 2021 at the Notodden Theater in Notodden, Norway, on May 23rd, with the show being broadcast online. Performing with the band will be troll-faced former bassist Mortiis.
“2021 marks 30 years since the formation of Emperor,” write the band. “With the current state of the world, it’s been impossible to go ahead with scheduled plans. We now welcome you to join us in an exclusive streaming event. The show will take place at Notodden Theatre, 23rd of May.
‘The setlist will feature tracks from the entire catalogue, as well as very special guest appearances from original bass player Mortiis, who appeared on the Wrath of the Tyrant demo, As the Shadows Rise EP and Emperor mini album, and ex-drummer Faust, who appeared on the As the Shadows Rise EP, Emperor mini album, as well as the landmark album In the Nightside Eclipse.”
Even without the restrictions caused by COVID-19, this show would be a rare treat — Emperor were one of the black metal bands infamously dogged by visa issues and travel restrictions, due in part to the involvement certain members had with the wave of murder and arson that caused the global renown surrounding — and, ultimately, the dissolution of — the ‘black circle’ centered around the Helvete record store in early ’90s Norway.
Fans can purchase tickets for the livestream event via Munin Live.
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Words by Chris Krovatin
