Troll: Norway's Pioneers of Heavy Metal Majesty

Troll is a Norwegian black and folk metal band that emerged from the fertile Bergen scene in the mid-1990s. The group is known for its epic compositions and mythological themes, achieving cult status with albums like The Last Predators and maintaining a consistent presence in the underground metal world for nearly three decades.

Early career

Troll was formed in 1995 by guitarist and vocalist Nagash, who had concurrently been a member of the influential symphonic black metal act Dimmu Borgir. The band's early sound was rooted in raw, melodic black metal, heavily inspired by Norwegian folklore and dark fantasy. Their debut album, Trollstorm over Norsk Fjellandskap, was released in 1995 on the label Head Not Found, establishing their thematic focus immediately.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough to a wider European audience came with their 1999 sophomore album, Drep de kristne, released on the German label Solistitium Records. This release showcased a more refined and epic approach, blending harsh black metal with sweeping keyboards and folk melodies. While not a mainstream chart success, the album solidified Troll's reputation and led to increased distribution and recognition within the metal underground.

Key tracks

Trollberg — This early track from their debut became a fan favorite for its raw energy and quintessential folk metal atmosphere.

Drep de kristne — The title track from their breakthrough album is a defining example of their epic, keyboard-driven black metal style.

Towards the Gates of Niflheim — A key song from their 2001 album The Last Predators, demonstrating their progression into more complex, narrative-driven songwriting.

Bloodsoaked — This track from their 2009 album Neo-Satanic Supremacy marked a return to a more aggressive sound after a period of hiatus.

Helvetesmakt — A powerful song from their 2022 album Kaptein Kaos, proving the band's enduring creative force in the modern metal landscape.

Following their initial burst of activity, Troll entered a period of reduced output as Nagash focused on other projects, including The Kovenant. The band was resurrected in the late 2000s, returning with the album Neo-Satanic Supremacy in 2009 on the label Dark Essence Records. This resurgence continued with Kaptein Kaos in 2022, showcasing a refreshed lineup and a blend of their classic folk elements with thrash and traditional heavy metal influences.

Fans of Troll's epic and folk-infused approach to black metal often appreciate the work of similar Norwegian acts. Kampfar shares a deep connection to Norse mythology and pagan themes. Windir also masterfully blended black metal with folk melodies and local history. Einherjer delivers a similarly majestic and Viking-oriented sound. Tyr from the Faroe Islands explores related folk metal territory with a focus on melodic prowess.

Troll's music is a staple on dedicated metal radio stations and online streams, particularly those specializing in extreme, folk, and classic black metal genres. Their catalog, from early raw recordings to their recent powerful albums, provides a compelling journey through Nordic metal history for listeners.

You can explore the epic sound of Troll on radio stations featured on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their legendary tracks and experience the might of Norwegian folk metal through our curated radio selections.