Norwegian melodic black metal veterans Iskald return with "Curse of the Mind", their sixth full-length album and the band's first-ever concept record: the album unfolds in four movements, connected by four ritual Invocations. Following the acclaimed "Innhøstinga" (2018), the new album marks the beginning of a new chapter for the band after signing with Dusktone in early 2026. Available on LP and CD, "Curse of the Mind" was recorded during the summer of 2025 at Strand Studio in Beiarn, mixed and mastered by Hallstein Sandvin, and features artwork by SG7 Graphics. For over two decades, ISKALD have stood among the leading names in Norwegian melodic black metal. Now performing as a five-piece, the band expands its trademark northern sound with its most ambitious and immersive work to date. Built as a conceptual journey, "Curse of the Mind" unfolds through four interconnected chapters linked by ritualistic invocations, exploring themes of psychological torment, inner conflict, fragile hope and ultimate sacrifice. Framed within a stark, Norse-inspired vision of Helheim, the story is mythological in setting but deeply psychological at its core. Helheim is not merely a place, it is the shape taken by inner darkness. The true battlefield is the mind itself.
For fans of IMMORTAL, VREID, DISSECTION
1. Curse of the Mind – Invocation I
2. The Other Realm
3. Curse of the Mind – Invocation II
4. Manifestation of Madness
5. Curse of the Mind – Invocation III
6. A Burden of Hope
7. Curse of the Mind – Final Invocation
8. The Sacrifice