Burzum was a one-man black metal project founded in 1991 by Varg Vikernes in Bergen, Norway. Known for its atmospheric and minimalist approach to black metal, Burzum has left a significant impact on the genre, although its legacy is often overshadowed by the controversies surrounding Vikernes himself.

Formation and Early Years (1991–1992):

Varg Vikernes, born Kristian Vikernes, began Burzum as a solo project after playing in various local bands, taking the name “Burzum” from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, which translates to “darkness” in the Black Speech of Mordor. Burzum quickly gained attention in the burgeoning Norwegian black metal scene for its raw, lo-fi production and haunting melodies. Vikernes played all instruments on his recordings, emphasizing an atmospheric, repetitive style that stood apart from the more aggressive sound of his peers. It was during this time that he would come to the attention of Euronymous of Mayhem, and so would begin a friendship that would change both men’s life’s.

Rise of Burzum and the Black Metal Scene (1992–1993):

Between 1992 and 1993, Burzum released its early works, including the self-titled debut album Burzum and Aske (Norwegian for “ashes”), an EP that included iconic tracks such as A Lost Forgotten Sad Spirit, and may or may not hav3 featured a picture on its cover of a burnt out church that Vikernes may or may not have set fire to himself, though he really did. These releases established Burzum as one of the leading acts in the Norwegian black metal scene. During this time, Vikernes became involved with the “Inner Circle,” a loose group of black metal musicians associated with Euronymous of Mayhem. The group was linked to a series of church burnings in Norway, which became infamous symbols of rebellion against Christianity and mainstream society.

Murder of Euronymous and Legal Troubles (1993–1994):

In 1993, Vikernes’ relationship with Euronymous deteriorated. Their rivalry culminated in Vikernes fatally stabbing Euronymous during an altercation. Vikernes claimed self-defense, while prosecutors argued it was a premeditated murder. He was arrested shortly after and sentenced to 21 years in prison, Norway’s maximum penalty. Despite his imprisonment, Vikernes released the seminal Hvis Lyset Tar Oss (1994) and Filosofem (1996). These albums are considered masterpieces of atmospheric black metal, featuring tracks like Dunkelheit and Det Som En Gang Var, which showcase Burzum’s minimalist yet evocative style. Filosofem is particularly notable for its use of ambient elements, foreshadowing Vikernes’ later musical direction.

Ambient Era and Philosophical Shift (1995–2009):

While in prison, Vikernes continued to record music, albeit limited to synthesizers due to restrictions. He released two ambient albums, Dauði Baldrs (1997) and Hliðskjálf (1999), inspired by Norse mythology and pagan themes. These works marked a departure from black metal, focusing on atmospheric, ambient compositions. During his incarceration, Vikernes became increasingly vocal about his ideological beliefs, which included Norse paganism, nationalism, and controversial far-right ideologies. His writings and interviews during this period polarized his fan base and cemented his reputation as one of the most divisive figures in extreme music.

Release from Prison and Return to Music (2009–2014):

Vikernes was released from prison in 2009 after serving 15 years. Shortly after, he revived Burzum and returned to black metal with the album Belus (2010), which was followed by Fallen (2011) and Umskiptar (2012). These albums continued to explore Norse mythology and personal themes, though the music retained a more polished production compared to his early work. In 2014, Burzum released The Ways of Yore, a predominantly ambient album that delved deeper into historical and mythological storytelling. Vikernes announced that Burzum would no longer produce new music, stating he had said all he wanted to through the project.

Burzum Returns And The Buggers Off Just As Quickly (2023-2024):

Having laid dormant for nearly 10 years, Varg Vikernes suddenly announced that Burzum would be brought back to life and started to release new music off a forthcoming album, The Land of Thulê. Excitement from his fanbase was short lived, however, as no less than six months after the albums release, Vikernes too to social media to announce he was done with Buruzm once again, stating;

I stopped making music (again), because I appreciate a lot more to work with my books, and especially #ReconQuest. And I don’t have the time for it all.”.

Controversy and Legacy

Burzum remains one of the most influential black metal acts ever, credited with shaping the genre’s atmospheric and introspective dimensions. However, Vikernes’ criminal actions, far-right beliefs, and controversial statements have overshadowed his musical legacy for many. Despite the controversies, Burzum’s music has inspired countless black metal and ambient artists. Albums like Hvis Lyset Tar Oss and Filosofem are often cited as essential works within the genre, admired for their stark, otherworldly beauty and raw emotional power. While Burzum’s musical career has ended, its influence on black metal and atmospheric music persists, as does the complex and polarizing figure of Varg Vikernes.