Norwegian esoteric metal band Gaahls Wyrd has released their third single, “And the Now,” today, May 7, 2025, ahead of their sophomore album Braiding the Stories, out June 6 via Season of Mist. The track, streaming now, showcases a cinematic blend of twisted atmospheres, layered vocals, and gothic rock textures, pushing beyond traditional black metal boundaries. Fans can pre-order the album in CD, vinyl, and digital formats at orcd.co/gaahlswyrdbraidinggthestories.
Formed in 2015 in Bergen by ex-Gorgoroth vocalist Kristian “Gaahl” Espedal, alongside Ole “Lust Kilman” Walaunet (guitars), Andreas “Nekroman” Salbu (bass), and Kevin “Spektre” Kvåle (drums), Gaahls Wyrd has evolved from their raw black metal roots into a more experimental force. Following their 2019 debut GastiR – Ghosts Invited, which won a Norwegian Spellemannprisen for Best Metal Album, and 2021’s The Humming Mountain EP, Braiding the Stories explores dreams and consciousness with a 42-minute journey across nine tracks. “And the Now” follows singles “Braiding the Stories” and “Time and Timeless Timeline,” highlighting the album’s shift toward a dreamlike, ‘80s-inspired sound, as Gaahl notes it exists “behind the veil.” Produced by Iver Sandøy at Solslottet Studio in Bergen, the album features cover art by Øivind Myksvoll, weaving hair and crystallized wine into its cosmic design.
This single offers a haunting glimpse into their new chapter. Stream “And the Now” and pre-order Braiding the Stories now!