Instruments and Geographic Connotations in Grima’s Music

In the realm of music, instruments often evoke specific geographic connotations, and in the case of the band Grima, the bayan—a traditional accordion-like instrument—anchors their sound to the East Siberian Taiga. This vast forest biome, home to Grima, has a rich history and a haunting beauty that permeates their music. The bayan is not only a staple of Soviet cinema but also deeply connected to the boreal essence of the Taiga. The region’s remoteness and density are exemplified by the 1908 Tunguska event, where an asteroid exploded, obliterating approximately 80 million trees yet claiming only three lives. This stark contrast of nature’s power and humanity’s fragility forms the backdrop for Grima’s recently released sixth album, Nightside.

Nightside: A Journey Through the Taiga

Nightside marks a significant evolution in Grima’s sound, further distinguishing them from their other project, Ultar. While both bands share members—Vilhelm and Morbius—their musical identities diverge dramatically. Ultar delves into a vampiric blackgaze, characterized by reverb-laden guitars and cosmic horrors. In contrast, Grima’s approach is imbued with color and a sense of magical realism. Their music captures a vibrant, whimsical essence while remaining serious in tone, showcasing the diverse potential within the black metal genre.

The Spirits of the Taiga

While Nightside is steeped in the spirit of the Siberian Taiga, it focuses more on the ethereal entities that inhabit the forest rather than the trees themselves. The bayan serves as a bridge between the human and the supernatural, enhancing the album’s narrative through countermelodies and serving as both an opening and closing motif—effectively replacing traditional synths. This multifaceted use of the bayan elevates it beyond mere gimmickry, infusing the music with warmth and quirkiness, especially evident in the climactic track “Mist and Fog.” This playful element evokes the spirits of the Taiga, suggesting that not all forces within the forest are malevolent, which lends the album a folktale-like quality rather than a purely horror-driven narrative.

Crossover Appeal and Accessibility

While suspense lingers on the fringes of Nightside, Grima’s black metal sound reaches out to a broader audience. The track “Curse of the Void” exemplifies this crossover potential, featuring transparent production and dynamic shifts between quiet and loud sections. As the most conventional piece on the album, it showcases Grima as a compelling metal entity rooted in the forest while maintaining their artistic integrity.

Interview Insights: The Evolution of Grima

In an exclusive interview, Vilhelm shared insights into the band’s journey and the evolution of their forest spirit concept:

The Concept of Grima

Q: You guys were inspired to create Grima to represent a forest spirit. How has that concept evolved over time?
A: Our goal was to craft a fictional world that complements our music and grows with it. We wanted to embody the mystical essence of our Siberian forests and mountains through a powerful figure we named Grima.

Expanding the Mythology

Q: How does this new album progress that forest spirit concept?
A: Each album expands our mythology. Nightside tells the story of cursed souls searching for peace, revealing paths only found by following the stars and navigating icy storms.

The Role of the Bayan

Q: What inspired you to add the bayan to your music, and how do you think it complements black metal?
A: The bayan has a tragic, expressive sound that resonates with us. Its unique tone sets it apart from other instruments in black metal, allowing for experimental soundscapes that enhance our music.

Incorporating Live Elements

Q: Was “Curse of the Void” intended for live audiences?
A: Our recent tours have influenced our songwriting. We now consider how a song will perform live, aiming for tracks that resonate well on stage.

Personal Connection to the Taiga

Q: What personal significance does the Taiga hold for you?
A: We love our homeland and often explore its depths. The mystical imagery of the forest profoundly influences our music, allowing listeners to connect with it on a magical level.

Challenges of Being a Siberian Band

Q: What challenges have you faced establishing your name as a group from Siberia?
A: Finding a label and distribution was challenging in a region where metal culture is still developing. However, our audience has grown steadily, with international recognition helping us establish ourselves.

Influences from Korn

Q: You mentioned being fans of Korn. How have they influenced your perception of metal?
A: Korn was one of our first introductions to heavy music. Their innovative use of sound and effects has inspired our approach to creating new textures in our music.

Writing for Grima vs. Ultar

Q: What are the largest differences between writing for Grima and Ultar?
A: Ultar involves a collective effort with five members, while Grima is a duo. The thematic focus also differs, with Ultar exploring H.P. Lovecraft’s horror, while Grima is rooted in the mystical forest concept.

Conclusion

Nightside embodies Grima’s unique blend of black metal and the enchanting spirit of the Siberian Taiga. With the bayan as a central instrument and a narrative steeped in folklore, the album offers a captivating listening experience that invites audiences into a world of mystical exploration. As Grima continues to tour and evolve, their connection to their homeland and its spirits remains a powerful force in their music.

FAQs

What is the significance of the bayan in Grima’s music?

The bayan adds a unique, expressive sound that enhances the mystical elements of their music, bridging the human and supernatural realms.

How does Nightside differ from Grima’s previous albums?

Nightside features a more cinematic quality and mid-paced, atmospheric compositions compared to earlier works.

What themes are explored in Nightside?

The album tells a story of cursed souls navigating the Taiga, focusing on mystical imagery and the search for peace.

Has Grima faced challenges due to their Siberian origins?

Yes, establishing a name in a developing metal culture presented challenges, but they’ve gained recognition both locally and internationally.

Which artists influenced Grima’s sound?

Grima cites bands like Korn as significant influences, particularly regarding sound experimentation and guitar effects.