About this album
Where they were
Released on May 27, 1996, 'Blood on Ice' is Bathory's eleventh studio album and marks their return to the Viking metal sound after several albums exploring black metal. This album came after a five-year hiatus from studio recordings and showcased frontman Quorthon's shift back to thematic storytelling rooted in Norse mythology, reflecting his artistic evolution.
Why it matters
'Blood on Ice' is significant for revitalizing interest in Viking metal at a time when black metal was dominating the scene. The album's narrative style and epic scope influenced numerous subsequent bands within the genre and garnered positive critical reception, establishing Bathory as pivotal in shaping the sound of Nordic heavy metal.
Essential tracks
- "Man of Iron" — This track encapsulates the raw energy of Viking metal with its driving riffs and powerful lyrics about valor and strength.
- "The Woodwoman / The Lake" — A sprawling 13-minute epic that blends atmospheric elements with progressive storytelling, showcasing Bathory's unique take on mythological themes.
- "Gods of Thunder of Wind and of Rain" — This song highlights the album's thematic focus on Norse mythology while delivering a blend of melodic and aggressive elements characteristic of Bathory's style.
- "The Revenge of the Blood on Ice" — The title track serves as a dramatic culmination of the album's narrative arc, merging intricate arrangements with powerful vocals that reflect revenge and honor.
Release Date
May 27, 1996
Artist Origin
Sweden
Tracklist
- 1 Intro / Blood on Ice 7:29
- 2 Man of Iron 2:33
- 3 One Eyed Old Man 4:22
- 4 The Sword 4:09
- 5 The Stallion 5:15
- 6 The Woodwoman / The Lake 13:00
- 7 Gods of Thunder of Wind and of Rain 5:42
- 8 The Ravens 1:10
- 9 The Revenge of the Blood on Ice 9:52
- 10 [untitled] 0:23
