Behind The Artworks: Thousand Year War - Níðhöggr (2023)

The visual component of an album is as crucial as the music itself, especially in genres like Black/Death metal where the artwork can shape the listeners' perception of the album. Thousand Year War's latest album is no exception, with its artwork as layered and intriguing as the music it represents.

The album cover depicts the dragon Níðhöggr, gnawing upon the world tree Yggdrassil. This concept is deeply rooted in Viking mythology and represents the overarching theme of the album. The artwork boasts a folk and medieval aesthetic, its soft colors designed to mimic the autumnal hues of Steamboat Springs, CO, where Thousand Year War resides.

With four out of five songs directly referencing Viking underworld mythology, the artwork serves as a visual representation of this concept. The dragon and the world tree form a striking image that reflects the narratives embedded within the music.

The creation of such a detailed piece of artwork wasn't a casual process. Thousand Year War emphasized the importance they place on artwork in Black/Death metal and took great care in selecting the artist. The band finally settled on German artist Timon Kokott, known for his intricate and evocative style.

Thousand Year War had a clear vision for the artwork but also provided Kokott with creative freedom. This balanced approach resulted in an artwork that effectively communicates the essence of the album while showcasing Kokott's unique artistic flair.

Compared to their previous album covers, the artwork for this album leans more towards a medieval and folkish vibe, offering a taste of what fans can expect from future releases by Thousand Year War. It's a reflection of the growth and evolution of the band, demonstrating their ability to combine music and art in a way that provides a holistic experience for their listeners.