Darkthrone Total Death CD (Jewel Case, 2011, Peaceville Records)

Few bands have shaped black metal as profoundly as Darkthrone, and Total Death stands as another uncompromising chapter in the legendary Norwegian duo's unrivalled catalogue. Originally released in 1996, this sixth studio album continued Darkthrone's relentless commitment to raw, underground black metal, further cementing their reputation as one of the defining forces of the second wave of Norwegian black metal.

This 2011 Peaceville Records jewel case reissue edition faithfully preserves one of the genre's most respected releases with an added bonus track, making it an essential addition for collectors of classic black metal.

Recorded by Fenriz and Nocturno Culto, Total Death builds upon the stripped-back production and icy atmosphere established on the band's earlier classics while introducing a slightly more varied songwriting approach. Despite its raw aesthetic, the album delivers memorable riffs, haunting melodies and the primitive aggression that became synonymous with Darkthrone throughout the 1990s.

Unlike previous releases, several lyrics on Total Death were contributed by friends and fellow musicians from the Norwegian extreme metal underground, adding another unique dimension to the album while maintaining its bleak, uncompromising identity.

Standout tracks including "The Serpent's Harvest," "Black Victory of Death," "Gather for Attack on the Pearly Gates," "Blasphemer" and the title track showcase the band's unmistakable fusion of cold tremolo-picked guitars, hypnotic rhythms and grim atmosphere. Every song reflects the minimalist philosophy that helped establish Darkthrone as one of black metal's most influential and respected bands.

While many contemporaries embraced increasingly polished production and symphonic arrangements, Darkthrone remained firmly dedicated to the underground spirit of black metal. That authenticity has made Total Death a favourite among longtime fans and collectors, representing the band's unwavering commitment to the genre they helped define.

Presented in a classic jewel case, this official Peaceville Records release is an essential purchase for collectors of Norwegian black metal and anyone exploring the genre's most influential recordings.

Why You'll Love It - Total Death captures Darkthrone continuing their legendary second-wave black metal journey with raw production, unforgettable riffs and uncompromising underground spirit. It remains an essential album for serious black metal collectors and fans of the Norwegian scene.

Recommended if you like: Celtic Frost, Bathory, Venom, Hellhammer, Candlemass, Mayhem, Marduk, Satyricon, Enslaved, Gorgoroth, Taake, Abbath, Behemoth, Dark Funeral, Dissection, Morbid Angel

Artist: Darkthrone 
Title: Total Death
Label: Peaceville Records
Catalogue Number: CDVILED751
UPC: 801056775122
Release Year: 1996/2011
Duration: Album
Format: CD 
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
Special Attributes: Reissue 
Condition: New & factory sealed

Tracklist:
1. Earth’s Last Picture
2. Blackwinged
3. Gather for Attack on the Pearly Gates
4. Black Victory of Death
5. Majestic Desolate Eye
6. Blasphemer
7. Ravnajuv
8. The Serpents Harvest
9. God of Disturbance and Friction (bonus track)