Borknagar "Universal"

Universal is the eighth full-length album by the Norwegian metal band Borknagar. It marks the return of guitarist Jens F. Ryland. The band's former vocalist ICS Vortex performed vocals on the track My Domain. The album was intended to be released in the fall of 2009, but the release date was postponed as a result of a label decision. It was released on 22 February 2010 in four formats: a regular jewelcase CD, a limited digipack which includes a bonus disc, a CD box with extras, and a gatefold LP with double vinyl.

Øystein G. Brun, the founder of the band, notes that: "We are extremely satisfied with the result! The album turned out even better than we dared to hope for when starting this journey. There is an attitude, energy and nerve to this record that will appeal to the most primal side of man, yet there is complexity and atmosphere that will challenge the most sophisticated parts of mind. The album contains all the elements that made Borknagar the band we are and we are firmly believe [sic] that this album will be a huge piece of candy for those who have followed the band through the years. This is by far the most complete album we have done to date- musically and productionwise- and we are right now just immensely eager to get the album out there!"

Regarding the album title, Brun previously stated: "Universal is the title that shines through and mirrors the essence of the album. Universal is a title that is broad enough and huge enough to project the giant character of this album, both musically and lyrically."

Lars A. Nedland expressed his opinion on the album: "I just listened to the test mastering of two of the new songs, and they sound great. I´m absolutely confident that you will love this album. Both Mr. V and Vortex do such amazing vocal performances, and I´m very happy with the way the songs turned out. It all sounds very fresh and Borknagar-ish." 


On 29 January 2010 Borknagar released the first track, Havoc, exclusively on their myspace page before the release of the album.

All lyrics written by Øystein G. Brun except "Reason" and "Fleshflower" lyrics by Lars A. Nedland, "Abrasion Tide" lyrics by Vintersorg.

All music written by Øystein G. Brun except "Fleshflower" music by Lars A. Nedland.

Recording information:

Recorded and mixed at Toproom Studio in Lunner, Norway January-April 2009. 
Vocals recorded at Waves Studio, April 2009. 
Keys, hammond organs and effects recorded at Mezzanine Studio, January-April 2009. 

Mastered in May 2009.