SKITLIV is the new brainchild of enigmatic singer Maniac, whose often erratic and self-mutilating performances as figurehead of MAYHEM, the legendary founders of Norwegian Black Metal, remains shrouded in awe, mystery and revolting rumour.
Having been a part of several bestselling albums Maniac assembles an impressive cast: SHINING's controversial vocalist Niklas Kvarforth joined on guitar and adds his amazing voice. Contributing to this miasma of hopelessness are the outstanding performances of famous guest-vocalists Attila Csihar (MAYHEM), David Tibet (CURRENT 93) and Gaahl (GOD SEED, TRELLDOM, WARDRUNA). Maniac himself displays a stunning range and many-sidedness as an exceptional vocal artist ranging from acerbic snarling enmity over desperate wails to fearsome primordial rage. True to its proverbial title “Skandinavisk Misantropi”, which was conceived long before celebrated Norwegian artist and author Matias Faldbakken released his controversial trilogy of the same name, SKITLIV deliver a bleak soundtrack to personal apocalypse: dark, loathing, hating and full of venomous spite. Finally the careful and organic mastering of Andrew Liles (CURRENT 93) has given this musical gem its glorious multi-faceted finish.