Fez — Moroccan folk music has found an unexpected place in Norway’s extreme metal scene, with Oslo-based band Beaten to Death citing it among the influences behind its new album, “Vntrve.”

The 13-track record is scheduled for release on October 23 through Norwegian label Mas-Kina Recordings, following an online premiere on October 21.

Known for its unconventional approach to grindcore, a form of extreme metal characterized by fast tempos and aggressive instrumentation, Beaten to Death has built a musical identity around combining contrasting sounds.

Its latest album continues that experimentation, drawing on influences that extend far beyond traditional metal.

From Norwegian grindcore to Moroccan folk traditions

In promotional material accompanying the album, the band described its new direction as a deliberate effort to incorporate a broader range of musical styles.

Alongside hip-hop, jazz, and Scandinavian rock, the musicians specifically identified Moroccan folk music as one of the elements introduced into the recording.

The group made the claim in statements accompanying the album’s October 21 premiere on specialist publication No Clean Singing.

The record includes unusual rhythmic passages, electronic-sounding textures, saxophone performances, and abrupt changes in tempo.

Among its tracks is “Slosspit,” an opening composition that incorporates rap-influenced vocal passages alongside the band’s characteristic growls and distorted guitars.

No Clean Singing suggested that the song may be where the band’s references to hip-hop and Moroccan folk music are most apparent.

However, the musicians have not publicly identified which Moroccan musical tradition inspired the recording.

It remains unclear whether the album incorporates Moroccan instruments, samples from existing recordings, or rhythmic ideas inspired by traditional music.

No Moroccan guest musician has been confirmed in the available album information.

An unexpected meeting of musical traditions

Beaten to Death formed in Oslo and has been releasing music since 2011.

The band consists of vocalist Anders Bakke, guitarists Martin Rygge and Tommy Hjelm, and drummer Christian Svendsen.

Over the years, its members have developed an approach to extreme music that frequently introduces unexpected melodic passages and influences from other genres.

“Vntrve” continues that direction across 13 tracks, including the previously released singles “Sunburnt Satanist,” “The Tolerator,” and “Fuck the Moon.”

The inclusion of Moroccan folk music among the band’s stated influences offers an unusual example of how musical traditions can enter artistic conversations far removed from their original settings.

Morocco’s regional music encompasses a wide range of distinct traditions, from Gnawa and Ahwach to Amazigh mountain songs and other folk forms.

Which of these traditions, if any, influenced Beaten to Death remains an open question.

For now, the band’s explicit reference to Moroccan music adds an unexpected North African connection to a Norwegian metal release.

“Vntrve” will be available through Mas-Kina Recordings and the band’s official music page from October 23.