Biography
Tidfall originated in 1992 under the name Pagan Divinity, a Norwegian black metal trio formed by Abraxas, Zarthon, and Rogon D. Bloodgraat. Their early work echoed the expansive, symphonic style pioneered by Emperor, yet remained confined to rehearsals and private demo recordings within the small community of Løten, Norway. Bassist Sorg and keyboardist Aftaneldr joined in 1995, expanding the lineup and shifting the music toward denser, more atmospheric textures. At that moment the group adopted the name Tidfall, drawn from the Norwegian phrase for the fall of time.
Their self-titled 1996 demo circulated through tape-trading networks and attracted an initial record-contract proposal, which the members rejected in favor of further cultivating their standing. The 1998 Black Psychotic Darkness demo marked the first use of English lyrics; strong underground sales prompted Samoth of Emperor to offer them a deal on his Nocturnal Art Productions label. Circular Supremacy, their debut full-length, was tracked in just eleven days during February 2000. Limited funds restricted live activity to scattered Norwegian dates, after which the band turned immediately to its follow-up. Mounting internal tensions led to the departure of Rogon D. Bloodgraat, leaving Sorg to assume vocal duties and reducing the group to a quartet. The new configuration laid down Instinct Gate in a Norwegian studio during March 2001. Shortly afterward, Samoth informed the members that he could no longer maintain the label, prompting them to seek another outlet. Nuclear Blast ultimately issued the album in 2002.
Their self-titled 1996 demo circulated through tape-trading networks and attracted an initial record-contract proposal, which the members rejected in favor of further cultivating their standing. The 1998 Black Psychotic Darkness demo marked the first use of English lyrics; strong underground sales prompted Samoth of Emperor to offer them a deal on his Nocturnal Art Productions label. Circular Supremacy, their debut full-length, was tracked in just eleven days during February 2000. Limited funds restricted live activity to scattered Norwegian dates, after which the band turned immediately to its follow-up. Mounting internal tensions led to the departure of Rogon D. Bloodgraat, leaving Sorg to assume vocal duties and reducing the group to a quartet. The new configuration laid down Instinct Gate in a Norwegian studio during March 2001. Shortly afterward, Samoth informed the members that he could no longer maintain the label, prompting them to seek another outlet. Nuclear Blast ultimately issued the album in 2002.