Lord Ahriman Promises a New Era for DARK FUNERAL
In a recent conversation with Ed Hackimer of This Day In Metal, Lord Ahriman, the driving force behind DARK FUNERAL, unveiled tantalizing details about the band’s upcoming album, the highly anticipated follow-up to 2022's 'We Are The Apocalypse'. As he put it, 'We're in the end of the writing process. We've almost got it. But when I spoke to Heljarmadr about it, he said, 'Don't fucking jinx it. We're not there yet.' It's clear that while anticipation simmers, Ahriman’s excitement is palpable. He and Heljarmadr are firing on all cylinders, each eager to unleash new material, though fans will have to wait until next year to experience it live.
As the mastermind of one of black metal's most revered acts, Lord Ahriman is acutely aware of the importance of visual artistry alongside the music. 'When I write music, I see everything as a movie,' he explained, emphasizing the necessity of a compelling aesthetic during DARK FUNERAL's live performances. With roots firmly planted in the early '90s black metal scene, he acknowledges the need for evolution: 'You don’t just want to keep repeating yourself; you want to find new ways to present your art.' The band is on the verge of unveiling what they describe as their most ambitious tour yet, meticulously blending the old school with fresh concepts.
Ahriman's vision isn't just about sound but a holistic experience that captivates the audience's senses. 'I have some really cool ideas that I hope we manage to pull together,' he confided, hinting at innovative visual elements that could redefine their stage presence. Budget constraints may limit their grand designs, but the band remains committed to pushing boundaries and avoiding complacency. 'It’s gotta be interesting and inspiring for me and the other guys too,' he stressed, illustrating his relentless pursuit of creativity after three decades in the game.
Meanwhile, DARK FUNERAL is gearing up to release a new live album, 'A Beast To Praise', on August 21, 2026, via Century Media Records. Recorded in 2022 at Fållan in Stockholm, this album captures the raw energy of their performance supporting 'We Are The Apocalypse'. In the midst of these developments, Ahriman also navigated personal challenges, undergoing his third hernia surgery in March 2025, yet his resilience remains unshaken.
Since their inception in 1993, DARK FUNERAL has carved an indelible mark on the black metal landscape, with a legacy that includes seven studio albums and relentless touring across 45 countries. Their debut release in 1994 set the stage for a journey filled with accolades and collaborations with legendary acts. As they prepare to unleash new music and a captivating live experience, the world watches closely—ready for DARK FUNERAL to remind us why they remain at the forefront of the genre.