MAYHEM “Dawn Of The Black Hearts” LP

Mayhem – The Dawn Of The Black Hearts LP (unofficial)

Mayhem is one of the most influential and controversial bands in the history of black metal. It was formed in 1984 in Langhus, Norway, at the initiative of guitarist Øystein Aarseth, known as Euronymous. Over the following years, the group became one of the key acts shaping the Norwegian black metal scene, and its history became inextricably linked with the evolution of extreme music in the 1980s and 1990s.

Initially, Mayhem drew inspiration primarily from extreme metal and hardcore punk. The band’s early recordings—including the cult 1987 EP *Deathcrush*—were characterized by a raw sound, aggression, and an uncompromising approach to composition. Over time, the group’s music evolved toward a more atmospheric, dark style of black metal, defined by icy guitar tones, intense drumming, and distinctive vocals.

Vocalist Per Yngve Ohlin—known as Dead—played a pivotal role in the band’s history after joining in 1988. His stage persona, distinctive vocal style, and dark aesthetic became integral to the group’s image. Dead took his own life in 1991, an event that sent shockwaves through the music community. Shortly thereafter, in 1993, Euronymous was murdered by Varg Vikernes of Burzum. Tragic events, conflicts, and the extreme ideology of a segment of the Norwegian underground have turned the story of Mayhem into one of the most notorious and grim tales in the history of metal.

“The Dawn Of The Black Hearts” is a release inextricably linked to the legend of early Mayhem. The album features live recordings from the band’s performance in Sarpsborg, Norway, on February 28, 1990. The lineup at the time included Dead on vocals, Euronymous on guitar, Necrobutcher on bass, and Hellhammer on drums. The material captures the band during the period when its signature raw style was taking shape—prior to the recording of the landmark album “De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas.”

The release is also known for its controversial cover art, which depicts Dead’s body following his death. Consequently, “The Dawn Of The Black Hearts” has long provoked extreme reactions and remains one of the most contentious titles in the history of black metal. It is worth noting that this is not an official studio album, but rather an unofficial live release, with subsequent editions appearing without the band’s authorization. Release Details
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Reissue, Unofficial Release
Label: Die Hard
Catalog Number: DIE678
Release Year: 2023
Country of Release: Europe
Style: Black Metal
Number of Tracks: 8

Tracklist
Side A
Deathcrush – 3:35
Necrolust – 3:48
Funeral Fog – 6:51
Freezing Moon – 6:18

Side B
Carnage – 3:58
Buried By Time And Dust – 5:35
Chainsaw Gutsfuck – 4:10
Pure Fucking Armageddon – 3:20