A History of Bokassa

Formation and Early Years (2013–2015)

Bokassa, hailing from the dark realms of Trondheim, Norway, emerged onto the heavy metal scene in 2013. Founded by the trio of Jørn Kaarstad, Lars Erik Andreassen, and Olav Dowkes, the band wasted no time in unleashing their raw, unapologetic sound upon the world. With Kaarstad on guitar and vocals, Dowkes on drums, and Andreassen on bass, Bokassa's lineup was solidified.

In 2015, the band saw a change in their ranks as Eirik Angård stepped in to replace Lars Erik Andreassen on bass. This lineup shift marked a new chapter in Bokassa's journey, setting the stage for their future endeavors in the world of rock and metal.

Rise to Prominence and Lineup Changes (2016–2024)

As Bokassa continued to carve their path through the metal landscape, 2016 brought another shift in their lineup. Bård Linga took over bass duties from Eirik Angård, adding his own flair to the band's sonic assault. The chemistry between Kaarstad, Dowkes, and Linga was undeniable, propelling Bokassa to new heights of musical intensity.

In 2024, the band faced yet another change as Linga decided to part ways with Bokassa on amicable terms. Bass player Inge Morten Gustafsholm briefly joined the band for a tour before announcing the end of their collaboration in September 2024. However, the metal spirit of Bokassa remained unbroken, and in October 2024, Ole Vistnes stepped in to fill the bass void, bringing his own energy to the group.

World Tour with Metallica and Album Releases

Bokassa's relentless dedication to their craft caught the attention of metal legends Metallica, leading to a momentous opportunity. The band embarked on a European tour supporting Metallica on the WorldWired Tour in 2019, a testament to their growing reputation in the metal community. Metallica's drummer Lars Ulrich even bestowed a glowing endorsement upon Bokassa, solidifying their place in the annals of heavy metal history.

With a string of successful tours under their belt, Bokassa continued to unleash their sonic fury through a series of studio albums. From their self-released debut 'Divide & Conquer' in 2017 to their latest offering 'All Out of Dreams' with Indie Recordings in 2024, each album showcased the band's evolution and unwavering passion for metal.

Bokassa's tumultuous journey through lineup changes and musical evolution has only strengthened their resolve and cemented their place in the heavy metal pantheon. With a discography that reflects their unwavering dedication to the craft, Bokassa's legacy is one of resilience, passion, and unbridled metal spirit.