Norwegian symphonic black metal titans DIMMU BORGIR have released their long-awaited ninth studio album, "Grand Serpent Rising," through Nuclear Blast Records. The album arrives eight years after "Eonian" (2018), making it one of the most anticipated heavy metal records of 2026.
Recorded in Gothenburg, Sweden with legendary producer Fredrik Nordström — the architect behind classic DIMMU BORGIR albums including "Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia" (2001) and "Death Cult Armageddon" (2003) — "Grand Serpent Rising" spans 13 tracks and runs for nearly an hour. The album explores themes of spiritual transformation, kundalini awakening, and alchemical self-renewal. Vocalist Shagrath summed up its scope: "This album carries echoes of every chapter of DIMMU BORGIR's legacy."
The lineup features Shagrath (vocals), Silenoz (guitars), Victor Brandt (bass), Gerlioz (keyboards), and Daray (drums), joined by new guitarist Kjell Åge "Damage" Karlsen, who stepped in after founding guitarist Galder's departure in 2024. Several tracks are performed in Norwegian, lending additional rawness and authenticity to the record.
Critical reception has been exceptional. Blabbermouth.net's Dom Lawson awarded the album a 9/10, calling it "a blur of dynamic brutality and elegant mystery, with songs that grow more immersive and impressive with each successive listen." He praised the production as vast but with "less reliance on orchestral indulgence," calling it "a partial reset" that redefines DIMMU BORGIR's bombast.
An official music video for the track "As Seen In The Unseen" has been released alongside the album. The band will also bring the record to North American audiences with an August 2026 headline tour alongside HYPOCRISY and SUFFOCATION.