A Norwegian guitarist and composer, known for his work in the black metal genre, particularly with the band Mayhem, and for his eclectic and experimental approach to music.
Rune Eriksen, better known by his stage name Blasphemer, is the Norwegian musician behind the sonic chaos of Mayhem, one of the most influential black metal bands of all time. As the former guitarist and songwriter, Eriksen's riffs and lyrics were instrumental in shaping Mayhem's distinctive sound and aesthetic.
Eriksen's foray into the world of black metal began in the early 1990s, when he adopted the stage name Blasphemer, inspired by a Sodom song. In 1994, he joined Mayhem, a band that would become synonymous with the genre. During his tenure, Eriksen was instrumental in crafting some of Mayhem's most iconic albums, including Wolfs Lair Abyss (1997), Mediolanum Capta Est (1999), and Grand Declaration of War (2000).
In 2008, Eriksen parted ways with Mayhem, embarking on a solo career that would take him to uncharted territories. He founded the solo project RUM in 2020, unleashing a new wave of sonic experimentation. Additionally, he became a member of bands such as Aura Noir, Earth Electric, and the multinational supergroup Vltimas, alongside David Vincent (Morbid Angel) and Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy).
Rune Eriksen's impact on the black metal genre cannot be overstated. As a guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, he has been instrumental in shaping the sound of some of the most influential bands of the past three decades. His collaborations and solo projects continue to push the boundaries of extreme metal, cementing his status as a true pioneer of the genre.
Little is known about Eriksen's personal life, but it is widely acknowledged that his intense commitment to his craft has been a driving force behind his success. His philosophy on music and art is centered around the pursuit of chaos and rebellion, often manifesting in his lyrics and sonic experimentation.
53 Years Old
A notorious black metal musician and convicted murderer, known for his dark and provocative music, as well as his extreme ideology and violent past.
52 Years Old
A black metal musician and founder of the band Emperor, known for his dark, atmospheric sound and influential guitar work in the Norwegian black metal scene.
50 Years Old
A Norwegian multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, known for his work in black metal band Emperor and his eclectic solo projects, blending extreme metal with progressive and avant-garde elements.
54 Years Old
A pioneering black metal musician, known for his dark, atmospheric soundscapes and poetic lyrics, shaping the genre with his iconic band Darkthrone.
