• Reissue
  
  

Burzum's Det Som Engang Var arrived in 1993 as the Norwegian project's second full-length, cementing its position as a defining voice in second-wave black metal. Released during a period of explosive creativity for the genre, this album showcased Varg Vikernes' evolution beyond the raw ferocity of Diabolical Fullmoon Mysticism, incorporating layered synths, intricate guitar work, and compositional ambition that would influence countless bands. The record stands as one of black metal's most technically accomplished statements, balancing lo-fi production aesthetics with genuine melodic sophistication and atmospheric depth.

Across eight tracks, Det Som Engang Var explores themes of Norse mythology, nature, and darkness with measured pacing and dramatic range. "Den Onde Kysten" and "Han Som Reiste" exemplify the album's ability to construct sprawling narratives through tremolo-picked riffs and synth passages that evoke desolate landscapes. "Key To The Gate" and "En Ring Til Aa Herske" demonstrate Vikernes' command of dynamic arrangement, shifting between crushing intensity and introspective folk-influenced segments. The instrumental passages and keyboard work throughout create an immersive atmosphere that feels both corpse-painted and surprisingly contemplative, while "Lost Wisdom" and "Naar Himmelen Klarner…" close the album with a sense of wintry finality. This is black metal that rewards repeated listening, revealing new textural details with each encounter.

This 2022 Back On Black reissue restores Det Som Engang Var to vinyl with careful attention to the original's sonic character. The package includes a white paper inner sleeve and a transparent sticker on the shrink wrap, presenting the album with the visual clarity it deserves. For those seeking the album on its preferred format, this pressing captures the layered production and dynamic range essential to experiencing Vikernes' vision in full.

Tracklist:

A1. Den Onde Kysten
A2. Key To The Gate
A3. En Ring Til Aa Herske
A4. Lost Wisdom
B1. Han Som Reiste
B2. Naar Himmelen Klarner
B3. Snu Mikrokosmos Tegn
B4. Svarte Troner