SLAGMAUR Reveals New Album, Acknowledges Band’s Frontman and THORNS’ Founder

Last month, we detailed the disappearance of Thorns founder Snorre W. Ruch and Slagmaur guitarist Rune “General Gribbsphiiser” Røstad in Norway’s Tjønnstua mountains. The story was amplified by Misþyrming’s Dagur Gíslason, lending credibility to the situation.

While some readers speculated that the report might be AI-generated on a fake website, I felt it was crucial to keep the story live until one of the band members addressed it directly. Just recently, Slagmaur announced the release of their upcoming album, “Hulders Ritual,” set to debut on February 27, 2026. The record will feature guest appearances from Gíslason, Hoest of Taake, Maria Charlotte Lund, and Dimmu Borgir’s Silenoz, with Ruch involved in additional production.

Prophecy, Slagmaur’s record label, explained in a statement that Gribbsphiiser and Ruch’s disappearance was not merely a media stunt but a thematic tie-in with the supernatural abductions depicted on “Hulders Ritual.” This move was an exploration of how traditional folklore themes can transcend into the digital age through an accelerated global circulation of stories.

Describing their approach to lyrics, the label emphasized that Slagmaur’s intent is not just to recount old tales but to challenge norms, provoke discomfort, and defy conventions. Gribbsphiiser sometimes adopts the role of a dark jester, challenging societal norms and cultivating controversial narratives that attract global attention.

The band’s first single from “Hulders Ritual,” titled “Huldergeist,” reflects local folklore events in Fosen, particularly focusing on the mysterious disappearances associated with the hidden folk. The track delves into dark rituals, paranormal incidents, and deeply-rooted folklore, setting the tone for the album’s thematic content. Vocal contributions from Gíslason, Hoest, and Lund enhance the song’s narrative, while the haunting music video was directed by drone pilot Håkon Settemsdal.

For fans interested in pre-ordering “Hulders Ritual” or hearing the intriguing track “Huldergeist,” the opportunity is now available. The album promises a blend of edgy black metal that draws inspiration from historical events and supernatural folk tales, creating an immersive musical experience that challenges conventional storytelling norms. With its unique themes and impactful collaborations, “Hulders Ritual” presents a fresh take on the black metal genre, rooted in deep-seated folklore and provocative storytelling.