Trassar, the Icelandic thrash metal band, made a triumphant return after 14 years of silence, releasing their long-awaited album “Amen” in 2005. Despite forming in 1987 and gaining a strong following in the late ’80s and early ’90s, the band never managed to produce an album until now. Guitarist Rúnar Þórarinsson, one of the band’s founding members, revealed that the reunion was initially a nostalgic endeavor, driven by a desire to revive the band’s music and legacy.
The band’s origins traced back to a small boarding school in Eiðar, where they adopted the name Trassar from Iceland’s metal band Bootlegs. Transitioning from local performances to the Reykjavík scene in 1990, Trassar faced internal conflicts that eventually led to a hiatus. Rúnar reflected on the challenges of being in a band, likening it to a complex relationship with multiple individuals. Despite the setbacks, the bond between Rúnar and fellow guitarist Björn Þór Jóhannsson remained strong.
In 2005, the band reassembled, with Rúnar and Björn joined by bassist Lúðvík Þórir Guðmundsson, drummer Jón Geir Jóhannesson, and tenor vocalist Ólafur Árni Bjarnason. Their collaboration reignited the creative spark, leading to the realization of their postponed album. As they delved into rehearsals and songwriting, the band’s influences expanded beyond thrash metal classics to encompass blues, jazz, and even Icelandic icon Björk.
Trassar’s music evolved with the times, incorporating diverse elements while honoring their thrash metal roots. Rúnar emphasized the importance of staying true to their origins while embracing new inspirations. The band’s first album was met with anticipation, prompting discussions about future releases. With a wealth of unreleased material at their disposal, Trassar set their sights on a prolific musical journey ahead.
Looking ahead, Trassar aimed to engage audiences through live performances and build on the momentum of their comeback. The band’s dedication to their craft and commitment to their musical evolution reflected a deep-seated passion for their art. As they ventured into a new chapter of their music career, Trassar’s story served as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and collaboration in the metal music scene.
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