Enslaved sign with Nuclear Blast

Official Press Release:

Nuclear Blast Records is proud to announce the release of "Vertebrae" from Norway's Enslaved on October 28th for the North American territory. The release has been exclusively licensed to Nuclear Blast from Indie Recordings in Norway, whom the band signed to, for a North American release.

Founding member and guitarist Ivar Bjørnson shares his thoughts on the new partnership:

"The

U.S. and Canada have become increasingly important territories for

Enslaved with their increasing sales and feedback from the fans and the

scene both within and outside hard-line metal. The two tours we did in

2007 proved our live show qualities to the scene, and the scene proved

its dedication to us. We are therefore extremely happy to be working

with Nuclear Blast – a formidable force in the record industry. Having

met members of the U.S. staff on several occasions, we know that their

dedication and professionalism will take Enslaved a great step further.

Vertebrae is by far our strongest album, one that we are extremely

proud to present to the U.S., to Canada, Mexico, and all other

territories. We are very pleased to present it in tandem with Nuclear

Blast."

Possessing the reputation as one of the very finest live

acts in metal, Enslaved' members knew their latest studio offering for

2008 had to contain the very best material to showcase the pinnacle of

their signature Viking/progressive black metal sound. In no uncertain

terms, Vertebrae easily meets that incredibly high level of expectation.

Recorded in the first quarter of 2008, mixed by "Evil" Joe Barresi (Tool), mastered by the legendary George Marino (Metallica, Iron Maiden) at Sterling Sound,

"Vertebrae" was produced by Ivar Bjørnson, Herbrand Larsen, and Grutle

Kjellson themselves. Considered by all band members to be their

strongest album in the seventeen years of their existence, Vertebrae's

sound, songs, seasoned guitar tone and time-travelling solos, and

overall atmosphere marks a crowning achievement for the band and the

genre as a whole.

Seasoned performers, Enslaved will be

embarking on a European tour of 41 shows in support of Vertebrae that

will launch in early November in Copenhagen, Denmark and end in late

December in Bergen, Norway.