01Recording
Early recordings for Scandinavian Metal Attack
In 1983, Quorthon recorded two tracks for the compilation Scandinavian Metal Attack which attracted unexpected attention and led to a full album deal.
Artist profile · 05/07/2026
Bathory
Bathory originated in 1983 in Vällingby, Sweden, pioneering black and Viking metal genres with a solo project by Quorthon. The band ceased activity in 2004 following Quorthon's death.
- 16
- Albums on Vinyles.com
- 450k
- Last.fm listeners
- 36M
- Last.fm plays
About
Bathory, Swedish black and Viking metal from 1983 to 2004.
22 vinyl releases including landmark albums; original pressings and picture discs tracked live.
Bathory is a Swedish metal band with origins in the Vällingby area. Founded in March 1983, it is known for pioneering black metal and Viking metal styles which influenced the Scandinavian black metal scene extensively. Quorthon, the main driving force behind Bathory, wrote and performed all tracks across the band's studio albums. Bathory's early releases are characterized by raw, abrasive sound and satanic themes, evolving into more epic, atmospheric Viking metal in later works.
The discography comprises 22 vinyl releases featuring seminal albums such as 'Bathory' (1984), 'Blood Fire Death' (1988), and 'Hammerheart' (1990). Later albums explored thrash and retro-heavy metal themes.
Discography
Bathory discography
Studio albums, live records, compilations and radio recordings. Each album groups all its editions.
Data provided by Discogs
Listen
Signature songs
- 01
A Fine Day to Die - 02Hades
- 03Reaper
- 04Call From the Grave
- 05Woman of Dark Desires
- 06Dies Irae
- 07Sacrifice
- 08Blood Fire Death
Essentials
3 Bathory albums you need to own
Our picks, approved by the editors.
#1 · 1984The debut album that laid the foundation for black metal with a raw, lo-fi sound and aggressive vocals.
10 tracksBlack Mark LabelOriginal pressing availableCult classic
#2 · 1988Marked a shift toward epic Viking metal while retaining black metal elements; influential in both subgenres.
9 tracksBlack Mark LabelOriginal 1988 vinyl issueGenre-defining
#3 · 2001Shift to thrash and heavy metal influences; includes 13 tracks with energetic and varied compositions.
13 tracksBlack Mark ProductionOriginal 2001 pressingThrash metal style
Go further
Artists similar to Bathory
Artists who share part of Bathory's musical DNA.
B-side
B-side: the hidden stories of Bathory
Studio secrets, tour stories and B-sides worth the whole album.
02Release
Release of debut album Bathory (1984)
At age 18, Quorthon released 'Bathory' in 1984 on Black Mark Label, a harsh and pioneering black metal record that influenced Scandinavian black metal much.
03Studio
Nordland II original pressing
The Swedish original pressing of 'Nordland II' from 2007 is an LP picture disc at Black Mark Production with catalog BMPD666-20, sought by 289 collectors.
Bathory never gave a live concert, preserving the mysterious aura central to their identity.— Quorthon's decision
05Performance
Declined live performance offer
A rumored million-euro offer from a major festival to perform live was politely declined to maintain Bathory's mystique and ambiance.
Bathory CDs
See all
Recommended accessories
See allBig Fudge 4-in-1 Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit, Brush and Cleaning Fluid | Anti Static Velvet and Stylus Brushes, Storage Pouch, Full Clean in Under a Minute, Gentle on Grooves
$24.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge Vinyl Record Cleaning Solution Refill, 100ml, for 4-in-1 Kit | Fine Spray Nozzle, Alcohol Free, Safe on Every Pressing, Keeps Your Care Routine Going Without a Gap
$9.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Outer Sleeves, 100 Pack, Crystal Clear | 3 Mil HDPP, Wrinkle Free, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe, Fits Gatefold LPs
$27.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Premium Inner Sleeves, 50 Pack, Rice Paper | Anti Static, Acid Free, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe, Trusted by Collectors
$24.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Outer Sleeves, 50 Pack, Crystal Clear | 3 Mil HDPP, Wrinkle Free, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe, Fits Gatefold LPs
$19.99
View on AmazonVASAGLE 3-Tier Record Player Stand, Vinyl Record Storage up to 100 Albums | Side Table, End Table for Living Room, Bedroom, Rustic White, DACEY Collection ULET275W01
$31.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Inner Sleeves, 100 Pack, Acid Free Paper | Heavyweight Construction, Safe for Long Term Storage, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches
$29.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Inner Sleeves, 50 Pack, Acid Free Paper | Heavyweight Construction, Safe for Long Term Storage, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches
$21.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Premium Inner Sleeves, 100 Pack, Rice Paper | Anti Static, Acid Free, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe, Trusted by Collectors
$39.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Premium Inner Sleeves, 25 Pack, Rice Paper | Anti Static, Acid Free, Protects LP Albums from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe, Trusted by Collectors
$16.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 12" Vinyl Record Round Bottom Inner Sleeves, 50 Pack | Anti Static Rice Paper, 3 Ply HDPE, Eases Insertion and Removal Without Touching the Surface, Archival Safe
$24.99
View on AmazonFaesun 3 Tier Record Player Stand with Flip-Down Record Shelf, Walnut | Vinyl Record Storage Holds up to 300+ Albums, Turntable Stand with Album Display, Record Table with Large Open Storage
$94.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Sleeves - Inner Sleeves 50 Pack - Anti Static Rice Paper Acid Free Vinyl Covers - Vinyl Accessories Protect LP Albums from Dust, Dirt & Scratches
$21.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Outer Sleeves, 100 Pack, Crystal Clear | 3 Mil HDPP, Wrinkle Free, Protects 45s and Singles from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe Storage
$19.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Outer Sleeves, 25 Pack, Crystal Clear | 3 Mil HDPP, Wrinkle Free, Protects 45s and Singles from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe Storage
$12.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Sleeves - Inner Sleeves 25 Pack - Anti Static Rice Paper Acid Free Vinyl Covers - Vinyl Accessories Protect LP Albums from Dust, Dirt & Scratches
$14.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Outer Sleeves, 50 Pack, Crystal Clear | 3 Mil HDPP, Wrinkle Free, Protects 45s and Singles from Dust, Dirt and Scratches, Archival Safe Storage
$17.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Sleeves - Round Bottom Inner Sleeves 50 Pack - Anti Static Rice Paper Acid Free Vinyl Covers - Vinyl Accessories Protect LP Albums from Dust, Dirt & Scratches
$21.99
View on AmazonBig Fudge 7" Vinyl Record Inner Sleeves 100 Pack - Heavyweight Acid Free Paper Vinyl Coves - Vinyl Accessories Protect LP Albums from Dust, Dirt & Scratches
$29.99
View on Amazon
FAQ
FAQ
The most common questions about pressings, reissues and limited editions.
When and where was Bathory formed?
Bathory was formed in March 1983 in Vällingby, a district of Stockholm, Sweden.
What genres is Bathory known for?
Bathory pioneered black metal and Viking metal, influencing subsequent Scandinavian metal scenes.
Did Bathory ever perform live concerts?
Bathory never performed live to preserve the mysterious and mythic image of the band.
What are some essential Bathory vinyl albums to collect?
Key albums include 'Bathory' (1984), 'Blood Fire Death' (1988), and 'Destroyer of Worlds' (2001), found in various vinyl pressings.
Are original pressings of Bathory albums valuable?
Original Swedish pressings, especially of albums like 'Nordland II' (2007), are sought after and can command higher prices.
Where can I find Bathory vinyl records in France?
Vinyl records by Bathory are available through specialized metal record stores and online vinyl price comparators tracking multiple sellers.
Which Bathory album marked the transition to Viking metal?
'Blood Fire Death' (1988) is notable for introducing Viking themes and a more epic style while retaining black metal elements.
What format variations exist for Bathory vinyl releases?
Bathory's vinyl catalog includes standard LPs, picture discs, limited edition reissues, and double LP sets in various countries.
Transparency
Sources & method
This profile is compiled by the vinyles.com editors from public sources and our marketplace.
Our method
- Discography data from MusicBrainz (dates, country, active years).
- Tracklists, covers and genres from Discogs Masters.
- Values (low / median / high) and stock from the Discogs Marketplace.
- Audience and similar artists from Last.fm.
- Page updated automatically and reviewed by the editors.
Last updated: 05/07/2026