Music Pics of 2006: I - Between Two Worlds

It'll be 2008 before I get through all of these. This gem is a side project from Immortal's leading man, Abbath. It is a masterpiece that transcends genres and defies expectations. The following is taken from the band's website, http://i.battlegrim.net/

"To call "I" a Norwegian supergroup would be nothing short of an understatement: featuring members of mighty IMMORTAL, SAHG and ENSLAVED in their ranks, it comes as no surprise that the debut album "Between Two Worlds" (in stores November 3, 2006) takes us to the very roots of high class-Black Metal and further.

With IMMORTAL having disbanded a few years back, the metal scene suffered a great loss. Not only did they spearhead the rise of brutal and epic Norwegian metal, but their live shows where second to none. Now frontman Abbath has assembled his troops and kicks back with a debut album that picks up where IMMORTAL left off, but with a new edge. With classic riffs, monumental choruses and epic arrangements, "Between Two Worlds" has arrived to set the Metal world on fire!

The obvious hints at the legendary BATHORY (just check out "Far Beyond The Quiet") are meant as a tribute to the deceased mastermind Quorthon: it was written in honor to the highly influential Swedish cult act. Lyricist Demonaz (who won't appear onstage with "I") even points out having tried to write in Quorthon's style.

"I" have suceeded in truly combining the best of two worlds: a haunting and epic look at the past of Black Metal, fused with all the hatred and heaviness IMMORTAL are still standing for.""