Isengard was the solo-project initially started in 1989 by Fenriz – one of the key driving forces behind Norwegian legends Darkthrone - because he had many musical ideas to explore that didn't strictly fit in with the style and music of his main band. Under the Isengard moniker, Fenriz released 2 albums encapsulating doom, death, black & Folk/Viking metal in the shape of 'Vinterskugge' & 'Høstmørke', with ‘Vårjevndøgn' added to this line of influential work upon its release in 2020.
‘Høstmørke’, meaning Autumn Darkness, was the second Isengard album, (even though the debut, ‘Vinterskugge’ is a collection of sorts). It was released in 1995 and featured a continuation of Norwegian folk elements mixed with some doom, with all instruments once again performed by Fenriz himself, as well as the now-trademark vocal delivery. The latter part of the album also features a couple of black metal tracks which explore territory a bit more in line with Darkthrone, particularly the track ‘Total Death’. Høstmørke is also notable for featuring a couple of small guest appearances from Aldrahn (Thorns, ex Dødheimsgard) and Vicotnik of Dødheimsgard.
CD1
1 Neslepaks [5:32]
2 Landet og Havet [1:07]
3 I Kamp med Hvitekrist [4:57]
4 I ei Gran Borti Nordre Asen [3:43]
5 Over de Syngende Oede Moer [5:52]
6 Thornspawn Chalice [8:10]
7 Total Death [2:50]
CD2
As CD1, but with commentary from Fenriz.