About this album
Sound:
"Raw and chaotic, this album unleashes a relentless assault of dark melodies and aggressive rhythms."
Where they were
Released in January 1984, 'The Return' was Bathory's sophomore effort, following their self-titled debut in 1984. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the burgeoning black metal scene, showcasing a more refined yet still abrasive sound that would come to define their legacy.
Why it matters
This album is significant for its role in shaping the early black metal genre and establishing Bathory as pioneers. Its raw production and thematic content influenced countless bands in the metal scene and contributed to the development of both black metal and viking metal subgenres.
Essential tracks
- "Born for Burning" — This track exemplifies Bathory's signature blend of speed and heaviness, featuring aggressive riffs that became hallmarks of black metal.
- "The Wind of Mayhem" — With its relentless tempo and haunting atmosphere, this track highlights the band's ability to fuse melody with aggression, a key trait in their style.
- "The Return of the Darkness and Evil" — This song encapsulates the album's themes of darkness and chaos while showcasing the band's lyrical depth and unique storytelling.
- "Possessed" — A furious display of energy, 'Possessed' captures the raw intensity characteristic of the underground metal scene during the early '80s.
Release Date
January 1, 1984
Artist Origin
Sweden
Tracklist
- 1 Revelation of Doom / Total Destruction 7:17
- 2 Born for Burning 5:13
- 3 The Wind of Mayhem 3:11
- 4 Bestial Lust 2:37
- 5 Possessed 2:39
- 6 The Rite of Darkness / Reap of Evil 5:35
- 7 Son of the Damned 2:44
- 8 Sadist 2:57
- 9 The Return of the Darkness and Evil 3:56
- 10 [untitled] 0:23
