BORKNAGAR – Vocalist Quits Band

After nearly 20 years in Norwegian progressive black outfit BORKNAGAR, vocalist Andreas Hedlund (aka Vintersorg) has exited the band. Bassist ICS Vortex will step into Hedlund’s role as lead vocalist.

Borknagar had the following to say:

“Due to personal reasons, Andreas ‘Vintersorg’ Hedlund has decided to step down as the lead vocalist of Borknagar. The decision is based on mutual understanding, respect and in a friendly manner with the rest of the band. Borknagar would like to express their sincere gratitude for the musical brotherhood we have shared throughout the years and wish Andreas the very best in his future endeavours. There is no drama to this situation, and our friendship will remain. No one should be too surprised if ‘Vintersorg’ reappears as a guest vocalist on a future record.”
For his part, Hedlund issued this statement:

“Time has come to make some tough decisions and let reality set the rules. It is with both a light and heavy heart I leave Borknagar as the lead vocalist. The light part is that it´s done in an amicable way and that this is the right thing to do for me, in respect for the fans and Borknagar. The heavy part is that it’s hard to leave something this meaningful and beautiful. My situation after the accident makes it hard to tour, and my job situation complicates things further. So in a way I’m not “leaving” as such, it’s more like I’m putting some oil into the Borknagar machinery so the band can keep their busy schedule, get out on the road and meet you guys. Borknagar will always have a special place in my heart and mind, and I hope that I can do some guest performances further down the road. The guys in the band are fantastic musicians and persons and I wish them the best of luck. However, Cronian is not dead and may shake its head before you know it.”

Borknagar are currently in the final stages of recording their eleventh album. The outing will be mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studio this spring.