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Key Information

Olve Eikemo (born 27 June 1973[3]), better known by his stage name Abbath Doom Occulta or simply Abbath, is a Norwegian musician best known as a founding member of the black metal band Immortal. Before founding Immortal, Abbath performed with Old Funeral alongside future Immortal member Demonaz. Following his departure from Immortal in 2015, he announced that he would be forming a new band under the Abbath name.[4] Although primarily a guitarist, Abbath is also a proficient bassist and drummer, having started his career as a bassist and recorded all drums for Immortal albums Pure Holocaust and Battles in the North.

Early life

[edit]

Olve was born in Odda[3] and grew up in Lysefjorden in Os, outside of Bergen, Norway.[5] As a young boy, he was an avid fan of hard rock band Kiss and his first heavy metal album was Creatures of the Night, which made him feel "immortal".[5][6] He started his musical career with the band Old Funeral.[5] He cites getting his first Venom video and Bathory album as a turning point in his musical development towards black metal.[7]

Projects

[edit]

Immortal

[edit]

Immortal was formed in 1991 by Abbath and Demonaz, alongside other former members of the extreme metal bands Old Funeral and Amputation. At various times throughout the band's history, Abbath has been the lead vocalist, bassist, guitarist, keyboardist, drummer, and lyricist, due to the difficulties of upholding a stable line-up. During Immortal's early years, Abbath originally served as the band's vocalist, bassist and studio drummer, while Demonaz played guitar. A steady-lineup was secured for a brief time when drummer Horgh joined Immortal. After the release of Blizzard Beasts in 1997, Demonaz was diagnosed with acute tendinitis, and was consequently forced to quit as guitarist, but remained as lyricist and band manager. Immortal released At the Heart of Winter in 1999, with Abbath taking over guitar and bass duties. This album marked a large shift in sound and style for the music of Immortal. In 2000, the band released Damned in Black, with Iscariah on bass. Sons of Northern Darkness was released in 2002, with the same lineup. Soon after the release of the album, Immortal decided to split and cited personal reasons for their break-up.[8]

In early May 2006, Abbath announced that Immortal would reunite.[9][10] In regard to when Immortal would start playing live again, Abbath said:

I didn't really want to say it, but I don't give a shit. We will come back, stronger than ever. I've met with Horgh for the first time in over a year. He's built his new house here, right around the corner. In the next few days we will begin to rehearse our old 'Blizzard Beasts' classics. I'm already really hot on the idea. Immortal are timeless frost. One year more or less doesn't make a difference. We have all the time in the world.

— Abbath, Rock Hard

A comeback tour followed the reunion with shows in Europe in 2007 and the band's first tour of Australia and New Zealand in 2008. A new Immortal album, All Shall Fall, was released in autumn of 2009. The band's performance at Wacken Open Air in 2007 was recorded and filmed for the release of the 2010 video album The Seventh Date of Blashyrkh. Abbath left Immortal in 2015 after a legal battle with the other members over the rights to the band's trademark.[11][12]

I

[edit]
I live at Hole in the Sky 2006

Following Immortal's break-up in 2003, Abbath began working on a new project called I that same year.[13][14] Abbath served as vocalist and guitarist, and was joined by former Immortal drummer Armagedda, Gorgoroth bassist King ov Hell, Enslaved guitarist Arve Isdal, and then-former Immortal guitarist Demonaz as lyricist.[13] The band released their debut album Between Two Worlds in 2006 and performed their only concert at that year's Hole in the Sky festival in Bergen.[15][16]

Abbath

[edit]

After leaving Immortal in 2015, Abbath formed a new eponymous band and released their first self-titled album in early 2016.[17] Abbath followed up their debut with the album Outstrider in 2019.[18] Their latest album, Dread Reaver, was released in 2022.[19]

Bömbers

[edit]

Bömbers is a Motörhead tribute band formed in 1996. The band consists of childhood friends Abbath "Killminister" on lead vocals and bass, Tore "Fast Tore" Bratseth (of Old Funeral and The Battalion) on guitars, and Jan Terje "Pez" "Party Animal" Pedersen (Punishment Park and Jef) on drums.[20][21] Motörhead frontman Lemmy attended Bömbers' show at Garage in 1997 after his band's show in Bergen.[21] Abbath left Bömbers in late 2000 to focus on Immortal and returned after their break-up in 2003. Nicola "Morrigan" Trier (of Aeternus) filled in on bass in his absence while Bratseth handled vocal duties. In 2005, Bömbers released the EP Bergen with covers of "Bomber", "No Class" and "Dead Men Tell No Tales".[22] During the Inferno Metal Festival in 2007, Abbath joined the German thrash metal band Sodom on stage and performed a cover of Motörhead's "Ace of Spades". In October 2024, Bömbers announced that the band had split up due to personal differences.[23]

Personal life

[edit]

Alcohol issues

[edit]

The 2019 South American tour of Abbath was abruptly cancelled mid-tour, after during a show at Argentina, Abbath appeared to behave erratically and "too drunk to perform";[24] the tour was cancelled the next day[25] and Abbath announced entering rehab later that month.[26]

Equipment

[edit]

As of 2015, Abbath endorses Schecter Guitars. His signature model, RavenDark V, was released in 2017.[27] Abbath has used the following guitars and basses throughout his career:

Abbath uses an ENGL Ritchie Blackmore Signature E650 amp through either direct line in or a Marshall cabinet.

[edit]

Abbath served as an inspiration for the appearance of the character Lars Ümlaüt from the video game series Guitar Hero.[28] The character wears many of the same on-stage outfits as Abbath and has nearly identical corpse paint. Abbath appeared in the 2008 documentary Until the Light Takes Us about early Norwegian black metal along with Demonaz. Jester King Brewery in Austin, Texas has an Abbath-inspired character on the label of their Black Metal Imperial stout.

Discography

[edit]

Immortal

I

Abbath

Bömbers

  • Bergen (2005)

Old Funeral

  • The Fart That Should Not Be (1989)
  • Abduction of Limbs (1990)[29]

Dimmu Borgir

  • Death Cult Armageddon (2003) - backing vocals on "Progenies of the Great Apocalypse" and "Heavenly Perverse"

Enslaved

  • Isa (2004) - backing vocals on "Lunar Force"

The Battalion

  • Stronghold Of Men (2008) - backing vocals on "Detonate" and "Man To Man (Warfare)"

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Abbath

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Abbath Doom Occulta (born Olve Eikemo on 27 June 1973) is a Norwegian musician renowned as the founding member, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist of the black metal band Immortal. Born in the industrial town of Odda, Norway, he relocated to Bergen at age nine and began his musical career in 1988 by forming the death metal band Old Funeral, which served as an early incubator for the Norwegian black metal scene. Influenced by bands such as Kiss, Slayer, Venom, and Bathory, Eikemo co-founded Immortal in 1990 alongside guitarist Demonaz (Harald Nævdal), establishing the group's signature frostbitten, Viking-themed aesthetic through landmark albums like Diabolical Fullmoon Mysticism (1992) and Pure Holocaust (1993). Immortal's sound evolved from raw black metal toward a thrash-influenced style on releases such as (1999) and (2002), the latter becoming the band's commercial peak before an initial disbandment in 2003. The band reformed in 2006 with Eikemo continuing as frontman until internal disputes led to his departure in 2015, after which he launched his eponymous project Abbath. As leader of Abbath, he has released three studio albums—Abbath (2016), Outstrider (2019), and Dread Reaver (2022)—blending black metal ferocity with heavy metal hooks, supported by a lineup including guitarist Ole André Farstad, bassist Andreas Salbu, and drummer Ukri Suvilehto. Prior to this, Eikemo explored progressive and atmospheric territory with the short-lived side project I, culminating in the 2006 album Between Two Worlds, featuring collaborators from Enslaved and . Eikemo's stage persona, characterized by elaborate and a spiky, , has made him an iconic figure in , influencing the genre's visual and thematic elements while contributing to its global spread from Norway's early 1990s underground. Formerly married to Demonaz's sister Merete Winther, with whom he has a son, he remains active in the metal scene, with Abbath touring internationally and maintaining ties to his roots.

Biography

Early life

Olve Eikemo, better known by his stage name , was born on June 27, 1973, in , an industrial town in known for its factory. His parents, both originally from the area, included a mother who worked as a nurse and a father who served as a chief and high school teacher; Eikemo was their . Eikemo spent his early childhood in , surrounded by the stark contrast of industrial landscapes and the dramatic natural beauty of nearby mountains and fjords, before the family relocated to in 1982 when he was nine years old. He often visited his grandparents' farm about 30 kilometers south of during holidays, an experience that deepened his affinity for the rural Norwegian countryside and contributed to his isolated, nature-centric perspective. This upbringing in the rugged, remote areas around Lysefjorden in the Os , outside , fostered a shaped by the fjords, mountains, and of . As a young boy, Eikemo's initial exposure to music came through television, where he encountered at age five, but his passion ignited around heavy metal via imported records and cassettes. He became an avid fan of after discovering their imagery on candy cards and hearing their album on cassette, followed by the live album , which profoundly influenced his early interest in the genre. Bands like , alongside , , , and Bathory, further shaped his tastes in the mid-1980s through similarly imported media, sparking a lifelong dedication to heavy metal. Eikemo received no formal musical training and instead taught himself the basics of playing instruments during his teenage years, beginning with at age 15 in 1988.

Musical beginnings

In the early 1990s, Abbath became immersed in Bergen's burgeoning scene, a regional extension of Norway's underground centered around raw, atmospheric sounds and ethos. Emerging from a tight-knit community of musicians influenced by Oslo pioneers like Mayhem, he contributed to the scene's development through his technical skills on bass and vocals, helping shift local acts from toward 's frostbitten intensity. Abbath's founding involvement with the death metal band in 1988, alongside (), who would co-found Immortal with him, marked a pivotal entry point; he handled bass and vocals during this period (1988–1990), performing in underground venues like the Garage and contributing to demos that showcased the band's aggressive, grinding style. This stint exposed him to collaborative songwriting, where he and experimented with riff-heavy compositions blending ferocity with emerging elements, laying foundational ideas for later projects. Old Funeral's raw live shows in these intimate spaces built Abbath's early reputation among Norway's enthusiasts for his energetic stage presence and vocal ferocity. During this time, Abbath adopted the stage name "Abbath Doom Occulta," embracing an occult-infused persona that aligned with the genre's thematic darkness, and incorporated —a stark black-and-white facial makeup inspired by Mayhem's shocking —to embody a demonic, character on stage. These elements solidified his identity amid the scene's DIY ethos. This phase directly evolved into the 1990 formation of Immortal, as Abbath and Demonaz departed to pursue a purer, Blashyrkh-themed vision unencumbered by constraints.

Musical career

Immortal

Immortal was co-founded in 1990 by Olve "Abbath" Eikemo and Harald "Demonaz" Nævdal in , , with Reidar "Horgh" Horghagen joining as in 1996. Initially rooted in the Norwegian black metal scene, the band debuted with the raw, demo-style recording Immortal in 1991, followed by the demo Unsilent Storms in the North Abyss in 1993, which showcased their aggressive, frostbitten sound characterized by blast beats, tremolo-picked riffs, and demonic vocals. Abbath served as the band's primary vocalist and bassist during this formative period, also contributing studio drums on early releases, while Demonaz handled guitar duties. The band's debut full-length album Diabolical Fullmoon Mysticism arrived in 1992, followed by breakthrough releases Pure Holocaust (1993) and Battles in the North (1995), which solidified Immortal's signature aesthetic centered on the fictional realm of Blashyrkh—a mythical, eternal winter landscape of ice, darkness, and war. Lyrics evoked grim, frost-themed narratives of ancient battles and unholy northern forces, drawing from Norse-inspired mythology while establishing Blashyrkh as a core conceptual universe unique to the band. These releases, produced under Osmose Productions, propelled Immortal to prominence in the second wave of black metal, with Pure Holocaust in particular praised for its relentless speed and atmospheric coldness. By the late , Immortal underwent a notable , incorporating influences into their foundation on (1999) and Damned in Black (2000), resulting in more structured riffs, groovy rhythms, and cleaner production while retaining frostbitten themes. Abbath transitioned to on these albums after Demonaz suffered a from tendonitis, expanding his multifaceted contributions to include riff composition alongside vocals. The band entered a hiatus from 2003 to 2006, reforming thereafter with a return to form on All Shall Fall (2009), which blended their classic raw energy with matured songwriting. Internal tensions culminated in Abbath's departure in amid disputes over the band's future direction and rights to the Immortal name and logo. Abbath had filed for sole ownership of the trademarks through his company, but the application was denied by Norwegian authorities in November 2015, as he was recognized only as a co-contributor rather than the band's originator. Demonaz and Horgh retained control, allowing Immortal to continue without Abbath, who had been integral to the band's identity for over two decades.

I and interim projects

In the wake of Immortal's breakup, Abbath (Olve Eikemo) formed the supergroup I in as a transitional during the band's hiatus. The lineup featured Abbath on vocals and guitars, Ice Dale (Arve Isdal of Enslaved) on guitars, TC King (Tom Cato Visnes of and God Seed) on bass, Armagedda (original Immortal drummer) on drums, and ( of Immortal) contributing lyrics. Recorded at Lydriket Studio in and mixed by at Abyss Studio, the band's debut and only , Between Two Worlds, was released on November 3, 2006, via Nuclear Blast Records. I's sole live performance occurred on August 26, 2006, at the Hole in the Sky festival in , , where the band showcased material from the forthcoming . The set highlighted experimental elements infused with thrash and rock influences, drawing from Abbath's raw vocal style and the supergroup's diverse lineup to create a dynamic, riff-driven sound distinct from Immortal's frostbitten aesthetic. Amid this period of uncertainty following Immortal's dissolution, Abbath engaged in several guest appearances to maintain his presence in the Norwegian scene. In 2003, he provided guest vocals on Dimmu Borgir's album Death Cult Armageddon, contributing to tracks "Progenies of the Great Apocalypse" and "Heavenly Perverse." The following year, in 2004, he added backing vocals to Enslaved's progressive album Isa, specifically on "Lunar Force." These collaborations, along with informal demos and songwriting sessions explored during I's formation, reflected Abbath's efforts to navigate creative outlets while the future of Immortal remained unresolved. By the late , I had effectively dissolved as its members returned to their primary projects, particularly with Immortal's in paving the way for renewed focus on that band. The supergroup's brief existence marked a pivotal interim phase, allowing Abbath to experiment with new sonic territories before recommitting to his foundational outfit.

Abbath solo project

Following his departure from Immortal, Abbath launched his eponymous solo band in 2015, initially enlisting bassist (from God Seed and ) and drummer Creature (Kevin Foley from ) to form the core lineup alongside Abbath on vocals, guitars, and bass. The band's self-titled debut album, Abbath, arrived on January 22, 2016, via , fusing black metal's raw aggression with heavy metal's anthemic structures through razor-sharp riffs, thunderous drumming, and atmospheric melodies that evoked epic battles and wintery desolation. Drummer Creature departed shortly after the album's release on December 12, 2015, with Emil Wiksten (also known as Creature) stepping in on drums through 2018, while contributed to the band's early output before leaving in June 2018. The second album, Outstrider, emerged on July 5, 2019, also through , demonstrating refined songwriting with sprawling epic riffs, dynamic grooves influenced by pioneers like Bathory, and mythological themes inspired by ancient lore and cosmic strife, as heard in tracks like "Land of Khem" and "Harvest Pyre." Italian bassist joined the band in 2019 for Outstrider and returned in 2021 after a brief hiatus, solidifying her role by 2022 alongside guitarist Ole André Farstad and drummer Ukri Suvilehto. This evolved lineup powered the third album, Dread Reaver, released on March 25, 2022, via , which built on prior works with even more layered compositions, thrash-infused energy, and mythological motifs evoking heroic quests and northern mysticism, exemplified by songs such as "Myrmidon" and "Septentrion." The album was recorded at Dub Studio in , , with producer Endre Kirkesola handling engineering and mixing to capture the band's matured, riff-driven sound.

Bömbers and side projects

In 1996, Abbath co-founded Bömbers, a tribute band, alongside childhood friends Tore Bratseth on guitar and on drums, during a casual drinking session where their shared admiration for the band sparked the idea. The group, with Abbath performing as "Killminister" on bass and vocals to emulate Kilmister, adopted a lighthearted, recreational approach that starkly contrasted the intensity of his commitments. Their first rehearsal occurred in June 1996, followed by a debut gig on March 15, 1997, at a local venue. Bömbers remained a side endeavor, prioritizing enjoyment over regular output, with only sporadic live performances at clubs and festivals across and . In 2005, they released the self-produced EP on Hearse Records, featuring raw covers of Motörhead classics such as "," "," and "Dead Men Tell No Tales," capturing the tribute's high-energy, no-frills spirit. The band continued occasional shows into the , including appearances at events like Hellbotn Metalfest in 2024, before announcing its disbandment in October 2024 due to personal differences. Beyond Bömbers, Abbath contributed guest vocals to other projects, such as backing vocals on "Lunar Force" from Enslaved's 2004 album Isa, blending his harsh style with the band's progressive sound. These collaborations and festival cameos underscored his versatility and camaraderie within the Norwegian metal scene, always maintaining a playful detachment from his primary endeavors.

Personal life

Health and substance issues

Abbath, whose real name is Olve Eikemo, has struggled with long-term alcohol dependency that became prominent in the during his time with Immortal, where excessive drinking was publicly acknowledged as a band issue following the release of their 2002 album .<grok:render type="render_inline_citation"> 1 </grok:render> This dependency was exacerbated by the stresses of extensive touring, which eroded the band's early creative intensity and contributed to interpersonal tensions. A notable public incident occurred on , 2019, during a in , , where Eikemo appeared heavily intoxicated, managing only two songs before leaving the stage. This led to the immediate cancellation of the remaining dates on his South American tour, with the band citing health issues requiring treatment. In the aftermath, Eikemo committed to a rehabilitation program in in late November 2019 to address his alcohol addiction, though he later opted for outpatient approaches including meetings and physical exercise over formal inpatient rehab, marking a pivotal moment in his recovery efforts. By early 2020, reported being nearly two months sober, and expressing that the process, though challenging, was progressing. In June 2020, he voiced strong conviction in maintaining , stating, "I am convinced that I can do this... It's time for me to get my shit together," crediting the decision with restoring his self-respect and focus. These efforts as of 2020 contributed to more stable output for his solo band, enabling consistent touring and recording without further major disruptions until a health issue in October 2025, when he left the stage early after approximately 20 minutes during a at Stavanger Rockfest in . Eikemo's substance issues have been contextualized within broader mental health challenges stemming from the high-pressure black metal lifestyle, including relentless touring schedules and the expectation of maintaining an intense, chaotic persona that blurred personal boundaries.

Family and residences

Abbath, whose real name is Olve Eikemo, was born in Odda, Norway, in 1973 and relocated to Bergen in 1982 at the age of nine, establishing a long-term residence there. His family had originally moved to Odda from the Bergen area in the late 1960s, where his mother worked as a nurse and his father served as a military chief and high school teacher; Abbath is an only child. Abbath's mother passed away suddenly in January 2024, prompting the cancellation of a scheduled performance in Gdansk, Poland. He has occasionally stayed in rural areas for inspiration, including holidays at his grandparents' farm located 30 kilometers south of Bergen. In his , Abbath was married to Merete Winther, the sister of his longtime Immortal collaborator Demonaz, and the couple has a named Torbjørn, who is a . They are now divorced, though Abbath has maintained a close friendship with Demonaz despite past band tensions. Abbath keeps details of his family life largely private, with limited public disclosures about his relationships and child. Abbath has drawn significant inspiration from his surroundings, expressing a profound love for Norwegian nature, including the mountains and fjords that shaped his upbringing and inform the mythical Blashyrkh themes in his music. This connection to the countryside has led him to engage in outdoor activities such as nature hikes in the fjords, providing a counterbalance to his musical career. During career lows, including the 2015 Immortal split, he has received support from his close circle of family and friends, who were informed of his need for personal time away from the band. Since the , Abbath has adopted a stronger stance on , avoiding extensive media discussions of his personal matters to focus on his professional output.

Style and equipment

Musical style

Abbath's vocal style is defined by his signature raspy delivery and high-pitched screams, which embody the raw intensity of Norwegian . These "demonic shrieked vocals," as described in analyses of Immortal's early work, provided a piercing, otherworldly edge that distinguished the band within the second wave of . In songwriting, Abbath's hallmarks include frost-covered, epic landscapes woven into lyrics, most notably the ongoing Blashyrkh saga—a mythical frozen realm symbolizing isolation and eternal winter. This thematic focus, evident in tracks like "Blashyrkh (Mighty Ravendark)" from Immortal's Battles in the North, draws from Nordic nature and sorcery rather than overt Satanism. His compositions feature riff-heavy structures that blend Venom's aggressive, punk-infused energy with Bathory's grandiose, atmospheric scope, creating long, epic passages interspersed with concise, hook-driven sections. Abbath's style originated in the pure of the , rooted in Immortal's shift from influences to a colder, more atmospheric sound inspired by Bathory's Viking-era epics. By the late , as heard on albums like , he began incorporating rock'n'roll and heavy metal elements for a more professional polish. His solo project further hybridized with heavy metal and thrash, drawing on New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) pioneers like Saxon and to infuse razor-sharp riffs and anthemic choruses. On stage, Abbath's persona amplifies his musical contributions through , spiked armor, and high-energy theatricality, evoking a warrior from Blashyrkh's icy domains. This visual style, influenced by shock rock icons like , transforms performances into immersive spectacles of dramatic flair and relentless motion.

Equipment

Abbath has maintained an endorsement with Schecter Guitars since the mid-2010s, prominently featuring his signature RavenDark V FR model, a V-style designed for aggressive metal riffing and equipped with active EMG 57 bridge and EMG 66 neck pickups to deliver a high-output, heavy tone ideal for . The guitar, announced in early 2017, includes an fretboard with custom RavenDark inlays, a 1500 Series bridge, and tuners for stability during intense performances. During Immortal's early years, when Abbath primarily played bass, he favored custom four-string models such as the Ironbird, known for its distinctive shape and suitability for the band's raw, frostbitten sound. In his solo career, however, Abbath shifted to a guitar-centric , largely abandoning bass duties in favor of lead and work with Schecter instruments. For amplification, Abbath relies on Marshall heads and cabinets, including the JCM 900 4102 2x12" 100-watt combo, as well as the ENGL Signature E650 and Peavey 6505, to achieve classic metal with punchy mids and saturated overdrive that defines Immortal's and his solo project's sonic aggression. He incorporates effects pedals from Boss, such as the MT-2 Metal Zone, for added and gain to enhance the aggression of his riffs. In Immortal's formative demos from the early , Abbath handled drum programming and performance to capture the band's initial raw energy, but by the late , the group transitioned to live drummers like Horgh for recordings and tours, emphasizing organic percussion in their evolving sound.

Legacy and activities

Abbath's distinctive stage antics, particularly his energetic and often humorous , gained widespread viral attention in 2015 during the early promotion of his solo project, transforming him into a prominent figure in memes within the metal community. A notable example is footage from his performances showcasing his "crab walk" and exaggerated movements, which were frequently shared and remixed online, endearing him to fans beyond traditional circles as the "goofball" of the genre. In documentary filmmaking, Abbath appeared in the 2008 film Until the Light Takes Us, where he provided insights into the Norwegian black metal scene's origins and ethos as a representative of Immortal. The film features interviews with Abbath discussing the movement's ideological roots, contributing to mainstream awareness of black metal's cultural impact during the 1990s. Abbath's exaggerated stage persona and corpse paint aesthetic have inspired parodies and tributes across media. In television, shows like South Park have lampooned black metal tropes in episodes such as "Band in China" (2019), where a fictional death metal band echoes the genre's dramatic style through satirical depictions of extreme music subcultures. In video games, his influence is evident in the character Lars Ümlaüt from the Guitar Hero series, whose appearance and mannerisms draw directly from Abbath's iconic look, blending black metal imagery with accessible gaming humor. Additionally, Brütal Legend (2009) incorporates black metal-inspired elements, including corpse paint on characters in the Drowning Doom faction, reflecting the genre's visual hallmarks popularized by Abbath and Immortal. The style popularized in the Norwegian scene by bands including Immortal—characterized by stark white faces accented with black outlines and spikes—has permeated popular fashion and seasonal attire worldwide. This aesthetic, which Abbath describes as embodying an "inner demon character," frequently appears in Halloween costumes, with tutorials and cosplay guides explicitly referencing Immortal's design for its recognizable, otherworldly appeal. Its adoption in broader underscores 's shift from underground notoriety to influential visual motif in and media.

Tours and recent developments

Following the release of his self-titled debut album in 2016, Abbath embarked on an extensive world tour spanning North America, Europe, and other regions from 2016 to 2018, including the Decibel Magazine Tour alongside High on Fire, Skeletonwitch, and Tribulation. This period marked his initial promotion of the solo project, with performances showcasing tracks like "To War!" and "Fenrir Hunts" to enthusiastic crowds at festivals and venues worldwide. The 2019 tour supporting Outstrider faced significant disruptions due to health issues, culminating in the cancellation of the remaining South American dates after a shortened performance in . Abbath cited the need for treatment, leading to rehab and a temporary halt in live activities. Promotion for the 2022 album Dread Reaver resumed with support tours in and 2023, including European headline dates and festival appearances such as , where sets featured new material like "Acid Haze" and "Dream Cull." These shows solidified his return to consistent touring, blending solo tracks with high-energy production. In 2024, Abbath launched the "Return to the Raven Realms" tour, a summer European and run emphasizing spectacular stage effects and a setlist revisiting Immortal classics alongside solo hits, paying tribute to his nearly 40-year career. The tour extended into 2025 with updated sets incorporating more Immortal material, such as "Withstand the Fall of Time" and "," while maintaining a focus on his solo catalog. Key 2025 highlights included headlining Inferno Metal in from April 17-20 with a special career-spanning performance, closing Beyond the Gates in on August 2 with an Immortal-heavy set at Grieghallen, and appearances at in June and Alcatraz Metal in August. Abbath also supported Danzig on a North American tour from March 21 in to April 5 in , alongside Down and , plus a performance at Hell's Heroes in from March 20-22. However, on October 4, 2025, at Rockfest, Abbath exited the stage mid-performance due to health issues, resulting in the show's cancellation. Later that month, on October 15, Abbath announced a co-headlining European tour with , scheduled to begin in November 2025 and run through early 2026. An Australian tour under the "Return to the Raven Realms" banner is set for early 2026, starting January 24 in Perth at Froth & Fury Fest and including headline shows in , , , and with guests Werewolves and Bastardizer. Concurrently, work on a new solo album progressed in 2025 at Dub Studio in , , produced by Endre Kirkesola, with promotion expected to tie into future live dates.

Discography

Solo releases

Abbath's solo project debuted with the self-titled Abbath on January 22, 2016, via . The record features standout tracks like "Warriors Elite" and "To War!", blending aggressive riffs with thrash elements and Abbath's distinctive, raspy vocals. It received widespread acclaim for revitalizing his post-Immortal sound, earning high praise from outlets like Metal Injection for its raw energy and nostalgic appeal. The second full-length, Outstrider, arrived on July 5, 2019, also through Season of Mist. Highlighted by tracks such as "Hecate" and "Harvest Pyre," the album incorporates experimental touches like mid-tempo grooves and a Bathory cover, diverging slightly from pure black metal. Reviews were mixed, with Decibel Magazine lauding its primal intensity while noting the bolder production and stylistic risks. In 2022, Dread Reaver was released on March 25 via Season of Mist, marking a return to more straightforward black metal roots. Key tracks include "Acid Haze" and "Scarred Core," emphasizing blistering speed and classic Immortal-inspired melodies. The album garnered positive reception for its focused aggression, with Angry Metal Guy highlighting its riff-driven ferocity and sense of renewal. It achieved chart success across Europe, entering the German Albums Chart at No. 22 and the Swiss Hitparade at No. 24. Abbath has also issued several singles and EPs, including "Harvest Pyre" (2019) and "Dream Cull" (2022), which previewed album material and expanded his solo catalog.

With Immortal

Abbath Doom Occulta (Olve Eikemo) co-founded Immortal in 1990 alongside Demonaz Doom Occulta (), initially handling bass and lead vocals while contributing to the band's raw sound rooted in Norwegian winters and mythological themes. Over his tenure until 2015, Abbath's multifaceted role evolved from to primary and frontman, shaping Immortal's through , songwriting, and production. His contributions spanned eight , where he performed on all instruments during early recordings and co-wrote much of the music, often collaborating with Demonaz on compositions that defined the band's relentless, frostbitten style.

Studio Albums

Abbath's involvement in Immortal's studio releases began with the debut (1992), where he provided bass and vocals, laying the foundation for the band's demonic, atmospheric . On this album, recorded at Grieghallen Studios, his bass lines and harsh vocals complemented Demonaz's guitar riffs, with production handled by the band and . The follow-up Pure Holocaust (1993) marked a pivotal shift, with Abbath performing all instruments—vocals, bass, and drums—alongside his songwriting duties. He co-composed key tracks like "Unsilent Storms in the North Abyss" with Demonaz, delivering blistering riffs and a raw, lo-fi intensity that solidified Immortal's reputation in the second wave of ; the was again produced by Immortal and Hundvin at Grieghallen. By (1995, EP reissued as full-length), Abbath expanded to vocals, bass, drums, and lead guitars on select tracks, while holding primary songwriting credits for most compositions (tracks 1-5, 7-10), including the epic title track. Engineered by Eirik "Pytten" Hundvin, this release showcased his growing command of the band's icy, battle-hymn aesthetic. Blizzard Beasts (1997) featured Abbath on vocals and bass, with Demonaz shifting to lyrics amid lineup changes; production was by Immortal and Henrikke Helland at Sigma Studios. The transitional At the Heart of Winter (1999) saw Abbath take on vocals, guitar, bass, and keyboards, co-producing elements under Peter Tägtgren at Abyss Studios and incorporating cleaner, thrash-influenced elements. Abbath's production role deepened with Damned in Black (2000), where he handled vocals and guitar, co-producing with Tägtgren and Horgh; his compositions drove the album's aggressive, riff-heavy sound. On (2002), Abbath performed vocals and guitar, co-producing with Tägtgren and Horgh at Abyss Studios, and composed tracks like "Tyrants," emphasizing melodic yet brutal hooks. The final studio effort during his tenure, All Shall Fall (2009), credited Abbath with vocals and guitar, produced by Tägtgren and Immortal across Abyss and Grieghallen Studios; his songwriting anchored the return to raw roots.
AlbumYearAbbath's Performance CreditsKey Contributions
1992Bass, vocalsFoundational bass and vocals
1993All instruments (vocals, bass, drums)Multi-instrumental performance; co-wrote "Unsilent Storms in the North Abyss"
1995Vocals, bass, drums; lead guitar (track 4)Primary songwriting (most tracks)
1997Vocals, bassVocal delivery amid style evolution
1999Vocals, guitar, bass, keyboardsInstrumental expansion; production assistance
Damned in Black2000Vocals, guitarCo-production; riff-focused writing
2002Vocals, guitarCo-production; composed "Tyrants"
All Shall Fall2009Vocals, guitarFinal songwriting and performance

Other Releases

Beyond studio albums, Abbath contributed to EPs and live/archival material. The EP Immortal (1991, demo reissued) featured his early bass and vocals. The live album The Seventh Date of Blashyrkh (2010), recorded at Wacken Open Air 2007, captured Abbath on vocals and guitar during the All Shall Fall era. Songwriting remained a core strength, with Abbath primarily credited for music on seminal tracks like "Unsilent Storms in the North Abyss" (co-written with Demonaz) and "Tyrants," often providing the driving riffs and structures while Demonaz handled lyrics. His production involvement started around 1999, escalating to co-production on Damned in Black (2000), Sons of Northern Darkness (2002), and All Shall Fall (2009), influencing Immortal's polished yet ferocious sound. Following his departure in 2015 amid personal and band disputes, Immortal continued without Abbath, releasing (2018) and (2023) with Demonaz on vocals; no further releases involve Abbath.

Other releases

In addition to his primary projects, Abbath contributed to the short-lived Norwegian heavy metal band I, formed with Enslaved guitarist Ice Dale, former Immortal drummer Armagedda on drums, and bassist TC King. The band's sole release, the album Between Two Worlds, featured Abbath on lead vocals and guitar across all tracks, blending classic heavy metal influences with epic structures reminiscent of 1980s acts like and . Abbath also participated in Bömbers, a Motörhead tribute band from Bergen that included members from Old Funeral and Punishment Park. The group released the EP Bergen in 2005 on Hearse Records, consisting of three Motörhead covers: "Bomber," "No Class," and "Dead Men Tell No Tales." Abbath performed vocals and bass on the EP, delivering a raw, high-energy interpretation faithful to the source material's punk-infused heavy metal style. Among his guest appearances, Abbath provided backing vocals on the track "Lunar Force" from Enslaved's 2004 album Isa, adding a layer of intensity to the progressive outfit's sound. In 2018, he contributed guest vocals to "Tearing Up The World" by Norwegian power band Guardians of Time, from their album Tearing up the World, alongside guest appearances by Tim "Ripper" Owens. Earlier in his career, Abbath was involved with the death metal band Old Funeral from 1988 to 1990, contributing bass and vocals to their initial demo recordings, including the 1989 Old Coffin Days tape and the 1990 Abduction of the Void demo, which showcased primitive, grinding death metal with nascent black metal elements. These efforts laid groundwork for the Norwegian extreme metal scene before his departure to form Immortal.

References

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