Mayhem story to be told in Necrobutcher book

Mayhem bassist Necrobutcher has confirmed the publication of his illustrated biography of the influential Norwegian band’s first decade of existence.

The black metal pioneers’ only remaining original member, real name Jorn Stubberud, has gathered pictures, memorabilia and anecdotes for The Death Archives: Mayhem 1984-94.

Publishers Ecstatic Peace Library promise the title covers “Murder, suicide, cannibalism, church fires” and say: “In this unique documentary book, he shares the first years of Mayhem’s existence, including their first photo sessions in full corpse regalia, recording sessions and exclusive stills from live footage of their earliest gigs.

“He shares rarely-seen photos of the band before the death of singer Pelle ‘Dead’ Ohlin and the murder of guitarist Oystein ‘Euronymous’ Aarseth.

“The book is not only a documentation of the band – it’s also a story about Norway, and a unique subculture where a fascination for authentic Nordic culture and nature is deeply immersed.”

The Death Archives will be published on June 6.

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Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.