The debut album that laid the foundation for black metal with a raw, lo-fi sound and aggressive vocals.
Artist page · 05/07/2026
Bathory
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, EPs and notable live records, from newest to oldest. Drag the timeline to browse.
Black Mark · 2003
Black Mark Production · 2002
Black Mark · 2001
Black Mark Production · 1996
Black Mark Production · 1995
Black Mark Production · 1994
Black Mark Production · 1991
Noise International · 1990
Under One Flag · 1988
Under One Flag · 1987
Black Mark Label · 1985
Black Mark Label · 1984Playlist
Signature tracks
The tracks that sum up Bathory's career.
The essentials
The 3 Bathory albums you absolutely need
Our pick, validated by the editorial team.
Marked a shift toward epic Viking metal while retaining black metal elements; influential in both subgenres.
Shift to thrash and heavy metal influences; includes 13 tracks with energetic and varied compositions.
Go further
Artists similar to Bathory
Artists who share part of Bathory's musical DNA.
Face B
Side B: the hidden stories of Bathory
Studio secrets, touring anecdotes and B-sides worth the whole album.
Bathory never gave a live concert, preserving the mysterious aura central to their identity.— Quorthon's decision
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.
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.
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.
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.
Records by Bathory
See all
Official store
Bathory merch
T-shirts, posters, accessories and limited editions.
FAQ
FAQ: Bathory on physical formats
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 page is compiled by the vinyles.com editorial team from public sources and our marketplace.
Our method
- Discographic data from MusicBrainz (dates, countries, activity period).
- Tracklists, artwork and genres retrieved via Discogs Masters.
- Values (low / median / high) and stock from the Discogs Marketplace.
- Audience and similar artists via Last.fm.
- Page updated automatically and reviewed by the editorial team.



