In a surprising lineup change, Andreas “Vintersorg” Hedlund has stepped down as the frontman and lead vocalist of Borknagar. Bassist and occasional lead singer ICR Vortex will now take over the role of lead vocalist. The band is at work on their new album, their 11th, and the follow up to the acclaimed Winter Thrice album on Century Media. The new album will be mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studio. You can read statements from Hedlund and the band below.
Øystein G. Brun comments:
“It is with a lot of respect, gratitude and good memories I see
one of my brothers in music set sails for new shores. Times are changing,
and we both saw this coming for a while. Even though we are splitting as partners in BORKNAGAR, I am happy to say that we have decided to carry on our musical brotherhood in Cronian (Official). A new album will be released whenever time allows for that.”
Andreas “Vintersorg” Hedlund comments
”Time has come to make some tough decisions and let reality set the rules. It is with both a light and heavy heart I leave Borknagar as the lead vocalist. The light part is that it´s done in an amicable way and that this is the right thing to do for me, in respect for the fans and Borknagar. The heavy part is that it’s hard to leave something this meaningful and beautiful. My situation after the accident makes it hard to tour, and my job situation complicates things further. So in a way I’m not ”leaving” as such, it’s more like I’m putting some oil into the Borknagar machinery so the band can keep their busy schedule, get out on the road and meet you guys. Borknagar will always have a special place in my heart and mind, and I hope that I can do some guest performances further down the road. The guys in the band are fantastic musicians and persons and I wish them the best of luck. However, Cronian is not dead and may shake its head before you know it.”