In Vain

In Vain was formed by J. Haaland and A. Frigstad back in 2003, however the band first saw action during the summer of 2004 when recording their first release. The highly critically acclaimed “Will the Sun Ever Rise” was a three-track EP of unrelenting atmosphere, aggression and complexity. The realease was embraced by metal heads and journalists alike. Fuelled by the standing ovations and the great response from a united metal press, the band was soon back in the studio to record yet another. “Wounds” was released December 2005 and the music was more diverse, progressive and dramatic than ever, without sacrificing the brutal edge of its predecessor. Already at this point in the band’s recording career the strong musical craftsmanship is obvious with guest musicians playing saxophone, cello and percussion. Just like its' debut EP, Wounds received fantastic reviews and the band was launched as one of the most promising acts in the extreme metal scene.

“The Latter Rain” was recorded in DUB Studio (Green Carnation, Blood Red Throne & Chain Collector) in the summer/fall of 2006. The recording was a huge project involving close to 20 guest musicians and several guest vocalists such as legendary Jan K. Transeth (In the Woods...) and Kjetil Nordhus (ex Green Carnation, ex Trail of Tears). Although the band kept the same vibe as on the two previous recordings the music was taken a step further, in every direction.

In March/April 2007 In Vain joined forces with Battered and supported Vreid on the "Northern Brigade Tour" (UK, Belguim, The Netherlands and Germany). The band made their live debut at a metal festival in Antwerpen. In 2008 the band played at the Inferno Festival and the big Norwegian festival, by: Larm.

In the summer of 2008, the band once again entered DUB studio, to record the sequel to "The Latter Rain". This time around they recorded 10 songs, including one rerecording of an old song and a cover song. Seven of these songs found their way on to the new album "Mantra", which is going to be released in the first quarter 2010. With extreme, brutal passages, progressive guitar riffs, beautiful melodies and a diverse use of vocal styles, the album continues the progression from "The Latter Rain". In addition you will hear fantastic guest performances from Kjetil Nordhus, Gil Silverbird, Jan Kenneth Transeth and Hanne Kolstø. It is safe to say that this is the best In Vain-album to date. Keep your eyes open for "Mantra". 2010 is going to be the year of In Vain.