Esoteric Warfare

2014 brings the 30th anniversary of the single most notorious and important band in the history of black metal; MAYHEM. With the band's four revolutionary full-lengths, a legacy of boundless extremity, and an ethic rooted firmly in the principle of no compromise. MAYHEM is the archetype that three generations of black metal bands follow as law. As they enter their 30th year, MAYHEM deliver 'Esoteric Warfare', their latest full-scale assault of total black metal savagery. The albums ten tracks prove beyond doubt that MAYHEM reign as kings of the underground and ensures that their shadow will be cast over the genre for all time. MAYHEM are the Alpha and the Omega of black metal.

As much a brand as a band, Mayhem epitomize the intersection of fame and infamy in black metal. Esoteric Warfare isn’t as far-reaching as some of its predecessors, but it’s still an adventurous and energetic record built on stylistic explorations and enthusiastic shifts that you wouldn’t expect from a band that’s had three decades to codify its own sound.

Ancient black metal gods arise from their seven year slumber to char the world afresh.

A review of Esoteric Warfare by Mayhem, available June 6 (Europe) and June 10 (north America) via Season of Mist.

Mayhem - Esoteric Warfare review: Mayhem go through the motions, yet their craft remains unmatched.