Universal is the eighth full-length album by the Norwegian metal band Borknagar. It marks the return of bassist Tyr and guitarist Jens Ryland. The band's former vocalist ICS Vortex performed vocals on the track "My Domain."[2] The album was intended to be released in the fall of 2009, but the released date was postponed as a result of a label decision.[3] It will be released on February 22, 2010 in four formats: a regular jewelcase CD, a limited digipack which will include a bonus disc, a CD box with extras, and a gatefold LP with double vinyl.[1]
Øystein G. Brun, the founder of the band says about the album: "We are extremely satisfied with the result! The album turned out even better than we dared to hope for when starting this journey. There is an attitude, energy and nerve to this record that will appeal to the most primal side of man, yet there is complexity and atmosphere that will challenge the most sophisticated parts of mind. The album contains all the elements that made Borknagar the band we are and we are firmly believe that this album will be a huge piece of candy for those who have followed the band through the years. This is by far the most complete album we have done to date- musically and productionwise- and we are right now just immensely eager to get the album out there![4]
Regarding the album title, Brun previously stated, "'Universal' is the title that shines through and mirrors the essence of the album. 'Universal' is a title that is broad enough and huge enough to project the giant character of this album, both musically and lyrically."[5]
Lars A. Nedland expressed his opinion on the album by explaining, "I just listened to the test mastering of two of the new songs, and they sound great. I´m absolutely confident that you will love this album. Both Mr. V and Vortex do such amazing vocal performances, and I´m very happy with the way the songs turned out. It all sounds very fresh and Borknagar-ish." [6]
On January 29, 2010, Borknagar released the first track, "Havoc", exclusively on their myspace page before the release of the album
Universal Track listing
1."Havoc" (6:42)
2."Reason" (6:55)
3."The Stir of Seasons" (4:01)
4."For a Thousand Years to Come" (6:46)
5."Abrasion Tide" (7:14)
6."Fleshflower" (3:28)
7."Worldwide" (6:59)
8."My Domain" (4:49)
Bonus tracks on the box edition:[citation needed]
9."Coalition of The Elements" (5:42)
10."Loci" (2:03)
All music and lyrics written by Øystein G. Brun except "Fleshflower" written by Lars A. Nedland.
[edit] Credits
Vintersorg all vocals and choirs
Øystein G. Brun electric, acoustic, and high-string guitars
Jens Ryland lead guitar
Jan Erik Tiwaz bass guitar
Lars A. Nedland synthesizers, Hammond organ, grand piano, backing vocals, lead vocals on "Fleshflower"
David Kinkade drums
[edit] Guest musicians
ICS Vortex vocals on "My Domain"
8 сен 2024
