Dark Funeral, the Swedish black metal institution, has entered 2024 with a spirit as unwavering as their music. Though vocalist Heljarmadr’s (Nils Fjällström) recent health scare cast a shadow, the band has emerged stronger, focused on upcoming tours and the enduring legacy they’ve carved in the genre.
A Setback and Swift Recovery
Fans were understandably worried in January 2024 when news broke of Heljarmadr’s hospitalization due to severe blood clots. The band quickly reassured fans, expressing their well wishes for their frontman and a promise to keep everyone updated. Thankfully, Heljarmadr made a full recovery, allowing Dark Funeral to rejoin the 2023 Decibel Magazine Tour in March.
This incident highlighted the deep bond between the band and their fans. An outpouring of support flooded social media, showcasing the impact Dark Funeral has had on listeners worldwide. Heljarmadr’s return to the stage marked a triumphant moment, a testament to the resilience of both the vocalist and the band.
Touring Victories: Decibel Decimation and Beyond
Despite the early-year health scare, 2023 proved to be a successful touring year for Dark Funeral. Headlining the legendary Decibel Magazine Tour alongside Cattle Decapitation, 200 Stab Wounds, and Blackbraid, they brought their signature brand of icy black metal to North American audiences. Reviews praised their relentless energy and their ability to transport audiences to a world of darkness.
Dark Funeral didn’t stop there. They joined forces with death metal titans Cannibal Corpse for a co-headlining European tour in March 2023, followed by a fall tour with Cannibal Corpse, Immolation, and Black Anvil across North America. These tours solidified Dark Funeral’s position as a live force, showcasing their ability to share the stage with some of metal’s most respected names.
Lord Ahriman Speaks Out: Industry Woes and the Future
Beyond touring, Dark Funeral guitarist Lord Ahriman (Lord Kärlek) used his platform to address an issue plaguing many touring bands: exorbitant venue merch cuts. In an Instagram post, Ahriman decried the practice, claiming instances where the band owed more to the venue after merch sales than they made from their guaranteed payment. This resonated with fans and fellow musicians, sparking a conversation about the challenges faced by touring artists in the current music industry landscape.
New Music on the Horizon?
Dark Funeral’s last studio album, “We Are The Apocalypse,” was released in March 2022. While there haven’t been any official announcements, the band’s history suggests new material might be in the works. With Lord Ahriman’s prolific songwriting and the band’s relentless creative spirit, fans can hold out hope for a future release.
Dark Funeral’s Enduring Influence
For nearly 30 years, Dark Funeral has been a cornerstone of Swedish black metal. Their early works, like “The Secrets of the Unseen Oath” and “Vobiscum Satanas,” helped define the genre’s sound with their raw aggression and blasphemous imagery. Over the years, the band has incorporated more melodic elements while retaining their signature intensity. Their influence can be heard in countless black metal acts, solidifying their place as one of the genre’s most important bands.
Looking Forward: Dark Funeral Marches On
Dark Funeral may have faced challenges in 2024, but they remain a force to be reckoned with. Their unwavering commitment to their music, their onstage power, and their willingness to speak out about industry woes ensure their continued relevance. With a loyal fanbase and a dedication to their craft, Dark Funeral shows no signs of slowing down. Black metal enthusiasts can be sure that these Swedish veterans will continue to deliver their brand of sonic darkness for years to come.
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