Dimmu Borgir introduces their new guitarist
Norwegian symphonic black metal powerhouse DIMMU BORGIR recently unveiled their newest guitarist, Kjell Åge “Damage” Karlsen. Karlsen showcased his skills during his first live performance with the band at the Tons Of Rock festival in Oslo, Norway, on June 27.
Although Karlsen is a fresh face on DIMMU BORGIR’s stage, he is no newcomer to collaborating with frontman Shagrath. The two musicians have previously worked together in the Norwegian hard rock group, CHROME DIVISION, which brings a sense of familiarity and camaraderie to their current partnership.
DIMMU BORGIR took to social media to welcome Karlsen to the band, sharing a backstage photo and expressing their excitement about collaborating together in the upcoming months. The band is looking forward to having fans embrace and support Karlsen as part of their lineup.
This announcement follows the departure of longtime guitarist Galder (Thomas Rune Andersen), who left the band last summer to refocus on his own project, OLD MAN’S CHILD. Galder’s farewell performance with DIMMU BORGIR took place at Dynamo Metal Fest in the Netherlands in August 2024. With a rich legacy spanning over two decades with DIMMU and seven studio albums under OLD MAN’S CHILD, Galder leaves behind a significant legacy to uphold.
The current official roster of DIMMU BORGIR now includes Shagrath on vocals and Silenoz (Sven Atle Kopperud) on rhythm guitar. Karlsen joins a seasoned group of live and session musicians, including Dariusz “Daray” Brzozowski on drums, Geir “Gerlioz” Bratland on keyboards, and Victor Brandt on bass.
Fans can catch Karlsen in action this summer as DIMMU BORGIR continues to dazzle audiences with their festival performances across Europe. The band’s upcoming tour dates for the remainder of 2025 include stops in Germany, France, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Belgium, Switzerland, and more.
Reeder, the mastermind behind Metal Addicts, has channeled his lifelong passion for metal into creating a vibrant online community for metal enthusiasts. An avid devotee of black metal, Reeder is drawn to its dark, atmospheric, and unconventional musical landscapes.
DIMMU BORGIR’s addition of Karlsen breathes new life into the band, allowing them to evolve and continue captivating audiences with their unique blend of symphonic black metal. Karlsen’s integration into the group represents a significant milestone in the band’s journey and sets the stage for exciting new musical endeavors ahead.