At 33 years and 10 albums into their storied career, Dimmu Borgir remains a formidable force in extreme metal. Founding guitarist Silenoz recently sat down with Full Metal Jackie to discuss the secrets behind the band’s enduring success and the release of their latest studio effort, Grand Serpent Rising.
Reflecting on his long-standing partnership with vocalist Shagrath, Silenoz emphasized the importance of a shared vision. “We have been steering the ship since day one,” he explained. “It comes with a lot of ups and downs, of course, but the ups definitely trump the downs. We have a very good creative working relationship because after so many years, everybody knows their position in the band.”
A Legacy of Ownership
Silenoz noted that while he and Shagrath may not always be the closest of friends, their professional synergy is undeniable. A key component of their longevity is a mutual understanding that the band’s identity transcends any individual member. “We both have something in common, which is the ownership to the band and the brand, and also being aware of the fact that the name of the band is bigger than anyone involved,” he stated.
This philosophy has guided the creation of Grand Serpent Rising, an album that the band views as both a reflection of their history and a bridge to the future. Despite an eight-year gap between records, the band approached the process with a focus on renewal and growth.
Navigating Change and New Horizons
The recent transition in the band’s lineup, which saw the departure of longtime member Galder and the introduction of Damage on guitar, has been a seamless evolution. Silenoz described the addition of Damage as a “blessing in disguise,” noting that his history with the band—both as a friend and a collaborator—made him a natural fit for the group’s current dynamic.
As the band prepares for upcoming tours, including a highly anticipated run with Behemoth and Dark Funeral, Silenoz remains focused on the future. “We never really look back in that sense,” he said. “We have quite a few albums under our belt now and we don’t feel like we have to prove anything. If we do, it’s proving to ourselves.”
With Grand Serpent Rising now available, Dimmu Borgir continues to challenge themselves within their own established realm, proving that after three decades, their creative fire remains as intense as ever.
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