Iconic Norwegian act Trelldom, founded by legendary vocalist Gaahl, have unveiled the bleak music video for "By The Word", the first advance single taken from their forthcoming full-length, ...By the Word...

It is plausible to speculate that the album title draws inspiration from stanza 141 of Hávamál (Words of the High One), in which the Norse god Odin recounts his acquisition of the runes (Rúnatal þáttr Óðinn).

...By the Word... is scheduled for release on 29 May via Prophecy Productions.

With this new album, Trelldom push decisively further into the musical era introduced by their previous full-length, …By The Shadows… (2024), which ended a 17‑year hiatus for the Norwegian band.

Mastermind Kristian Eivind Espedal (Gaahl) and his carefully selected collaborators have ventured even beyond the complex yet sinister sound established on …By The Shadows… The markedly increased confidence and hard-earned experience of uniting seemingly disparate musicians is evident in every track on ...By the Word...

Trelldom have completed their escape from the narrowest definition of black metal without compromising their artistic mission. Their music remains loyal to the spirit of their roots, yet the band make a compelling case that their new sound is darker and fiercer than ever – only now in more twisted and unhinged forms.

...By the Word... is the result of Espedal expanding the immense range of his vocals even further into unexplored territory. Notably, this was achieved in part through his return to the famed Grieghallen Studios in Bergen to work once again with legendary producer Eirik "Pytten" Hundvin, a key figure in shaping the classic Norwegian black metal sound.

Although Espedal remains firmly at the helm, the current line-up plays a crucial role in the renewed exploration of musical extremes. Guitarist Stian "Sir" Kårstad (formerly also of DJERV) provides a sense of continuity, having contributed to the band's second and third albums. The new constellation also features renowned percussionist Kenneth Kapstad, formerly of Motorpsycho and currently active in Spidergawd, Møster!, and Thorns. Kapstad brought with him internationally acclaimed jazz musician and saxophonist Kjetil Møster (Møster!, Röyksopp, The End). Bassist Eirik Øien is the latest addition to this formidable ensemble.

Trelldom continue in the tradition of all of Espedal's artistic endeavours, which demand that one always expect the unexpected. With ...By the Word..., their exploration of avant-garde dissonance, wicked rhythmic patterns, and untamed ideas once again shatters preconceptions and demands intense, focused listening. Prepare to be challenged by every note. Link