ANFAUGLIR – Inspirations & Influences

US symphonic Black Metal band ANFAUGLIR formed in 2004, undertaking a quest to breathe new musical life into the monumental works of J.R.R. Tolkien. The duo of Lord Bauglir and Griss were first captivated by the epic narrative power of "The Lord of the Rings", as realised through Peter Jackson's remarkable films in the early 2000s.

"We first discovered Tolkien through "The Fellowship of the Ring" when it came out in 2001. After seeing the movie, we were captivated and quickly moved to the books, devouring the source material as quickly as we could. The most fascinating thing about the world of Middle-earth is the scope and detail. Tolkien created a universe that feels larger than life but is also so relatable. We loved the LOTR trilogy when the films came out. They changed our lives and inspired us to start making our own music about Middle-earth."

Following the release of their 2008 debut album, "Hymns of Anfauglith", and a lengthy hiatus, ANFAUGLIR returned to glorious form in 2024, working intensely on a new suite of rousing, emotive, and triumphant longform compositions inspired by a legendary, mystical world. On June 27th, the duo will release their second album, "Akallabêth", which features four epic and cinematic black metal compositions that serve as a fitting soundtrack to Tolkien's vast and heroic universe. ANFAUGLIR themselves narrate:

"Black Metal shares the epic qualities that fit perfectly in line with the stories of Arda. Our symphonic approach ties in a cinematic element that helps blend the grimness of the Black Metal to the grandeur of the literary works. Black Metal is also such a malleable art form that it allows itself flexibility and freedom to blend naturally with other musical and thematic genres."

A concept album inspired by "The Silmarillion" and "Unfinished Tales", "Akallabêth" is set in the Second Age of Arda and chronicles the rise and fall of Númenor – the island kingdom bestowed upon the race of Men by the Valar, the divine powers of Middle-earth. The album traces the Númenóreans' triumphs, tragedies, and inner turmoils as they descend, inexorably, toward catastrophic ruin. From divine blessings to resounding wars, this beautifully dynamic and mesmerizing work spans over 3,000 years of prosperity, conquest, and upheaval.

Experience the first two unveiled singles – 'Part I: The Temple of Melkor' and 'Part III: The Gift of Men' – now streaming on all major platforms and on our YouTube page:

In addition, the band have curated three Spotify playlists to showcase the inspirational musical works which have shaped their exploration of Tolkien and the wider realm of fantasy literature. Discover them here:

Do not miss the forthcoming Bandcamp Listening party for the full album on Thursday, June 19th, at 7 PM CET.