Origin: Russia
Location: Krasnoyarsk, Krasnoyarsk Krai
Formed: 2014
Status: Active
Genre: Atmospheric Black Metal
Label: Napalm Records
Themes: Nature, Paganism
Years active: 2014–present
Grima is one of the most internationally recognized atmospheric black metal bands to emerge from Russia in the last decade. Formed in 2014 in Krasnoyarsk by twin brothers Morbius and Vilhelm, the project quickly distinguished itself through its evocative blend of Siberian nature mysticism, pagan themes, and richly layered atmospheric black metal. Their music is steeped in the imagery of forests, spirits, and ancient rites, drawing heavily on the vast landscapes and animistic traditions of their homeland.
From the beginning, Grima has been a fully self‑contained creative entity. Morbius and Vilhelm not only compose and perform the core of the music but also shape the band’s visual identity—Vilhelm is the creator of the band’s logo, a symbol that has become widely recognized within the atmospheric black metal community.
Their debut album Devotion to Lord (2015) introduced Grima’s signature sound: sweeping tremolo melodies, deep pagan atmospheres, and a sense of reverence toward nature as a living, spiritual force. The album’s raw emotional power and immersive songwriting earned the band early acclaim.
With Tales of the Enchanted Woods (2017), Grima reached a new level of international visibility. The album’s lush production, melodic depth, and evocative storytelling resonated strongly with fans of atmospheric and nature‑driven black metal. Many listeners consider it one of the defining works of modern Russian atmospheric black metal.
Their 2019 album Will of the Primordial continued this trajectory, exploring themes of ancient spirits and the will of nature itself. The band’s growing reputation led to their signing with Napalm Records, a major milestone that expanded their global reach.
In 2021, Grima released Rotten Garden, a darker and more introspective album that blended melancholy with grandeur. The same year saw the release of The Mighty Spirit (Live in Moscow), capturing the band’s powerful live presence. Their 2022 full‑length Frostbitten embraced colder, harsher atmospheres while retaining the melodic richness that defines their sound.
Grima’s live lineup—featuring musicians from Ultar, Morokh, and Solarfall—has allowed the band to bring their immersive studio sound to the stage with precision and emotional intensity.
Their upcoming 2025 album Nightside marks the next chapter in their evolution, promising a deeper exploration of nocturnal atmospheres and pagan mysticism.
Grima remains a cornerstone of contemporary atmospheric black metal: a project rooted in Siberian nature, shaped by twin creative minds, and driven by a vision that merges beauty, melancholy, and spiritual depth.
Core lineup
Current live members