Hellbutcher is the new band of Hellbutcher from Nifelheim. This could quickly become confusing since the man, the band, and the album share the same name. However, the man behind it is Per Gustavsson, known as Brødrene Hardrock and the twin brother of Erik (Tyrant), both from Nifelheim. Things haven’t quite gone smoothly for Nifelheim in recent years – in fact, we have to go all the way back to 2007 for their last full-length release. In 2022, Nifelheim held their final concert, and now both Nifelheim brothers are ready with new bands. While Tyrant has Crank to focus on, Hellbutcher has several new bands. The best of these has been Dead Kosmonaut so far, but earlier this year, he also released the debut album of the doom band Friends Of Hell.
But now it’s time for the band Hellbutcher, and it actually doesn’t sound too far from what Nifelheim was doing. Devilishly old-school black metal. Think Bathory, Venom, Celtic Frost, Hellhammer, and the wave of early black metal bands. Hellbutcher has also assembled a very solid lineup of musicians to support him. Here we find Devastator from Bloodbath, Necrophiliac from Mordant, Iron Beast from Unleashed, and last but not least, Norwegian Eld from bands like Phantom Fire, Aeternus, and Gaahls Wyrd. The result on “Hellbutcher” is striking; this is solid and devilish black metal of the old school. Music that will make some bristle and dismiss even before the first song is finished – while others will enjoy themselves thoroughly and become thirsty for beer before the first song is over. It’s not so important, because this is not made to please everyone. But this will satisfy Nifelheim fans – that’s for sure.
Release May 31st, 2024 on Metal Blade Records.
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