The Serpent's Return: Dimmu Borgir's Grand Evolution
There’s something undeniably captivating about a band that can reinvent itself while staying true to its roots. Dimmu Borgir’s Grand Serpent Rising is a testament to this delicate balance, and it’s a record that, in my opinion, marks a significant evolution for the Norwegian symphonic black metal giants. What makes this particularly fascinating is how the band manages to strip back the excesses of their recent work while still delivering the grandeur fans expect.
A Return to Form—But Not Quite
One thing that immediately stands out is the album’s deliberate shift away from the overblown production of Eonian. Personally, I think Eonian felt like a band trying too hard to impress, but Grand Serpent Rising reins it in, focusing instead on purpose-driven orchestration. This isn’t a return to their raw, early-90s sound—far from it. But it’s a refinement, a maturation that feels both intentional and refreshing.
Take the opening track, Tridentium. It’s classic Dimmu Borgir—dramatic, orchestral, and unapologetically theatrical. Yet, there’s a restraint here that I find especially interesting. The band isn’t afraid to let the atmosphere breathe, and that space allows the music to feel more impactful. It’s a detail that suggests a deeper understanding of their own strengths, something many bands lose as they chase trends.
The Black Metal Heart Still Beats
What many people don’t realize is that beneath the symphonic layers, Dimmu Borgir has always been a black metal band at its core. Ascent is a perfect example of this. The blast beats, raw vocals, and gritty riffs remind us that, despite their mainstream appeal, they’re still rooted in the genre’s aggressive ethos. If you take a step back and think about it, this duality is what makes them unique—they’re both accessible and uncompromising.
The snake motif of the album title isn’t just aesthetic; it’s symbolic. The serpent sheds its skin, just as Dimmu Borgir has shed the excess of their previous work. This raises a deeper question: can a band truly evolve without losing its identity? In Dimmu’s case, I’d argue they’ve managed it, though not without a few missteps along the way.
Experimentation Within Boundaries
A detail that I find especially interesting is the band’s playful use of introductory elements. Tracks like As Seen in the Unseen and Repository of Devine Transformation showcase their willingness to experiment, blending classical acoustics with extreme metal. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s executed with a precision that feels deliberate rather than forced.
What this really suggests is that Dimmu Borgir understands the importance of balance. They’re not afraid to lean into their symphonic tendencies, but they know when to pull back and let the metal breathe. This is where the album truly shines—in its ability to feel both familiar and fresh.
A Nod to the Past, A Glimpse of the Future
The inclusion of Norwegian lyrics on tracks like Ulvgield & Blodsodel is a welcome surprise. It’s a nod to their roots, a reminder of where they came from. But what’s more intriguing is how they blend these folk elements with their signature sound. Slik Mynnes en Alklkymist is a standout in this regard, combining orchestral grandeur with a singalong chorus that feels almost anthemic.
This raises another question: where does Dimmu Borgir go from here? Grand Serpent Rising feels like a culmination of their career, a record that ties together their past and present. But it also hints at new possibilities. Could we see them lean further into folk influences? Or perhaps experiment with even more minimalist arrangements? Only time will tell.
The Human Element
What often gets lost in discussions of Dimmu Borgir’s music is the human element behind it. Shagrath and Silenoz, as the primary songwriters, have crafted an album that feels deeply personal. It’s not just a collection of songs—it’s a statement. They’re saying, ‘This is who we are, and this is where we’re going.’
The contributions of session musicians like Dariusz Brzozowski and Geir Bratland also can’t be overlooked. Their expertise adds a layer of polish that elevates the material without overshadowing it. It’s a fine line to walk, but they manage it effortlessly.
The Final Verdict
At nearly seventy minutes, Grand Serpent Rising is a sprawling record, and yes, it could benefit from some trimming. But in my opinion, the quality of the music more than makes up for its length. This is Dimmu Borgir at their most focused, their most confident.
If you’re a longtime fan, this album will feel like a homecoming. If you’re new to the band, it’s a perfect entry point. Either way, it’s a reminder of why Dimmu Borgir remains one of the most compelling bands in metal.
What this album really suggests is that evolution doesn’t have to mean reinvention. Sometimes, it’s about refining what you already do best. And in that sense, Grand Serpent Rising is a masterclass.
