On April 16th it was announced that the band would be breaking up, however, an official statement was only released on the band's website on April 17th. ^{http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcturus_%28band%29#_note-0 - [1]}

The official statement was written from all of the band members, confirming rumours that had been circulating after their Melbourne concert, the last one of the Australian tour, in which http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simen_Hestn%C3%A6s - Simen "Vortex" Hestnæs , the band's vocalist, introduced the show to the audience with the words 'Welcome to the last Arcturus show- ever.' The statement goes on to say that the split was a 'decision we made some time ago,' and that because of ongoing 'things' in their careers and lives, the members can no longer 'find the time to continue working with this band.' The statement closes with a tribute to the fans of the band, 'We are humble and grateful to all the people that have supported and loved us over the years.' The final lines being the names of the final lineup of the band that was Arcturus. The official statement dispelled the many rumours and explained the truth. ^{http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcturus_%28band%29#_note-1 - [2]}

 

Arcturus were unbelievable and I can't believe we won't be hearing more from them. Doesn't look promising though, Garm is busy with Ulver, and Vortex and Hellhammer are now with Dimmu Borgir.

 

At least we have the legacy of some astonishing records.

 

Vortex joined Dimmu on Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia, but Hellhammer is a more recent addition.  Have you heard Dimmu's latest, 'In Sorte Diaboli' ?  If so, what's it like ?  I didn't hear it yet.

 

I have heard it, and it is a solid release, but not the masterpiece everyone is claiming. The concept behind the album is a little weak, and despite Hellhammer's astounding drums (he really is in top form) and Silenoz's arrangements, the music is just lacking IMO.

 

If you have liked Dimmu's recent releases, then you probably can tell where the band is going and you will most likely enjoy this album. I am mainly a fan of their material previous to and including Enthrone Darkness Triumphant.

 

Not bad by any means, just not particularly mindblowing. I'd give it a 3.5/5

 

My faves from DB are Enthrone Darkness Triumphant, Spiritual Black Dimensions (My favorite!!!) and Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia, on which Nick Barker did an amazing job (also on Old Man's Child's In Defiance of Existence)...