The origins of Susperia can be traced back to 1998 when Tjodalv, then occupying the drum seat with Dimmu Borgir, and long-time friend Cyrus (ex-Satyricon, Old Man's Child) got together to share ideas and write songs. Clearly rooted and seasoned in the Norwegian black metal scene, Susperia elevated its sound into more melodic areas of extreme metal, embracing and exploring a variety of musical avenues with ease. On "The Lyricist", Susperia has gone back to its black origin in many ways, one of which is a more grimmer expression. The characteristic melodic twist the band is known for is still present, and an additional layer of variety has been added thanks to new vocalist, Bernt 'Dagon' Fjellestad (whose stage debut with the band was made at 2016's 70000 Tons Of Metal Festival). From Susperia's pragmatic point of view, the new album is a "good old-fashioned kick in the head, both old and new fans should find enjoyable". "The Lyricist" will arrive nearly nine years to the day its predecessor ("Attitude", 2009) came out. The album was recorded at three different studios in Norway between February 2015 and May 2016. It mixed and mastered at Strand Studio (Chrome Division, The Wretched End, In Vain) by Marius Strand. Cover design and artwork was prepared by Vincent Fouquet. New band photos were shot by Espen Bakken.
