Few bands in extreme music carry their heritage as deeply as Enslaved.
Now, in a move that feels both unexpected and entirely natural, the Norwegian progressive pioneers have unveiled a new two track digital release, presenting their interpretations of the sea shanties “Fire Marengo” and “Anna Lovinda.”
A Collaboration Rooted in Tradition
The recordings were created alongside the Storm Weather Shanty Choir, a group deeply tied to Norway’s maritime history and the legendary sailing vessel Statsraad Lehmkuhl.
Rather than feeling like a stylistic detour, the collaboration stands as a natural extension of Enslaved’s identity.
Formed on the western edge of Norway, where mountains meet the sea, the band have always drawn from history, mythology, and environment. Here, that connection becomes literal.
Songs of Work, Survival and Memory
“Fire Marengo” is a traditional sea shanty, while “Anna Lovinda” was written by revered Norwegian cultural figure Erik Bye.
These are not just songs.
They are tools of survival.
Historically, shanties were used to coordinate labour aboard ships, their rhythms guiding movement and effort. Enslaved recognise a direct parallel between that purpose and the role of music in heavy metal.
Rhythm as unity.
Voice as force.
Sound as survival.
Not a Fusion, But a Recognition
The collaboration traces back to 2014, when Enslaved performed on the deck of Statsraad Lehmkuhl during the Tall Ships Races in Bergen.
What began as a unique moment evolved into a lasting connection, culminating in a live performance with the choir in 2025 before entering the studio in early 2026.
For Enslaved, this was never about novelty.
It was about continuity.
Two forms of expression meeting from the same origin point.
The Same Pulse, Different Form
There is a poetic symmetry in this release.
The same wind that once filled sails now carries distorted guitars.
The same call and response that drove sailors now fuels modern heavy music.
It is not a contrast.
It is a lineage.
And in that lineage, Enslaved continue to stand as one of the most thoughtful and boundary pushing bands in heavy music.
A Legacy That Keeps Expanding
Since forming in 1991, Enslaved have continually evolved, moving from raw black metal roots into expansive progressive territory without ever losing their identity.
This latest release is yet another reminder that their creativity is not bound by genre.
Only by truth.
🎧 Stream the tracks
https://enslaved.bfan.link/shanty-songs
