Octagon

Completely abandoning the sweeping, acoustic Viking metal epics that defined his previous era, Quorthon delivered an incredibly raw, remarkably aggressive throwback to 1980s thrash metal. The furiously fast, intensely stripped-down production focuses on deeply cynical, violently anti-religious lyricism heavily inspired by contemporary social decay. The exceptionally abrasive, highly controversial release severely alienated the band's established fanbase but showcased a relentless, unpolished energy.