Arcturus Members, Gear & Sound
Norwegian avant‐garde metal band
Members
Select a Arcturus band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
-
See Gear
Roles:
Groups:
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
Needs more gearRoles:
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
No gear added
About
Arcturus is a pioneering Norwegian metal band known for their avant-garde approach to black metal, blending elements of symphonic, progressive, and even jazz metal to craft a distinct sonic identity. Formed in the early 1990s, the group was initially a collaboration between Steinar "Sverd" Johnsen (keyboards) and Hellhammer (drums), both prominent figures in the black metal scene. Over time, their lineup has included notable members such as Garm (vocals), Samoth (guitar), and I.C.S. Vortex (bass, vocals). Arcturus is celebrated for their experimental style, which challenges the conventions of traditional black metal and incorporates symphonic and theatrical elements.
How to Sound Like Arcturus
Arcturus’s sound is a rich tapestry of contrasting textures, characterized by its ethereal, symphonic layers juxtaposed with aggressive metal undertones. Their music often features lush, atmospheric keyboards that create a grandiose backdrop, as evidenced by Steinar Sverd Johnsen's use of the Korg X3, which adds a celestial quality to their compositions. The guitar work, often driven by powerful, distorted riffs, finds its voice through gear like the Marshall JMP-1 Tube MIDI Guitar Preamp, contributing to a sound that's both expansive and intricate. Meanwhile, the rhythm section, anchored by Hellhammer's dynamic drumming, provides a robust counterpoint to the melodic elements, ensuring that Arcturus's music remains both unpredictable and immersive.
Discography
Get the Arcturus Sound
Want to sound like Arcturus? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
