About this album
Where they were
Upon its release in 2000, 'Grand Declaration of War' marked Mayhem's return after a lengthy hiatus since their controversial album 'Wolf's Lair Abyss' in 1997. This album was pivotal as it showcased the band's evolution from traditional black metal to a more avant-garde and experimental approach, setting the stage for their later works.
Why it matters
'Grand Declaration of War' is significant for its bold departure from conventional black metal, earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and complex structure. The album was influential within the black metal scene, impacting numerous artists and contributing to discussions around artistic expression in extreme music.
Essential tracks
- "A Grand Declaration of War" — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic focus on chaos and conflict, introducing listeners to its unsettling atmosphere and complex arrangements.
- "Crystalized Pain in Deconstruction" — This track exemplifies the album's experimental nature through its diverse tempo shifts and layered instrumentation, creating an immersive listening experience.
- "Completion in Science of Agony (Part I of II)" — The lengthy composition showcases Mayhem's ability to build tension and atmosphere, making it a standout moment that highlights their artistic ambition.
Release Date
June 6, 2000
Artist Origin
Norway
Tracklist
- 1 A Grand Declaration of War 4:14
- 2 In the Lies Where Upon You Lay 5:59
- 3 A Time to Die 1:48
- 4 View From Nihil (Part I of II) 3:04
- 5 View From Nihil (Part II of II) 1:17
- 6 A Bloodsword and a Colder Sun (Part I of II) 0:34
- 7 A Bloodsword and a Colder Sun (Part II of II) 4:27
- 8 Crystalized Pain in Deconstruction 4:10
- 9 Completion in Science of Agony (Part I of II) 9:44
- 10 To Daimonion (Part I of III) 3:26
- 11 To Daimonion (Part II of III) 4:53
- 12 To Daimonion (Part III of III) 0:07
- 13 Completion in Science of Agony (Part II of II) 2:14