MAYHEM guitarist Blasphemer (Rune Eriksen) has announced his departure from the band after more than 13 years.

Here is his official statement:

“It is with these written words that I hereby retract myself from my position as the guitar player of MAYHEM.

“The main reason behind this conclusion lies in the fact that I simply don’t see any future for me in the band anymore, at least not a future I’d like to participate in over the coming years. I’ve been playing my part in the band now for more than 13 years already, having composed, produced and released several albums with great vision, dedication and craftsmanship, to arrive at this crossroad of opposites. Sooner or later, all things comes to an end, and in my case, this circle is complete.

“For some of you this might not come as the biggest surprise, as I’ve clearly stated in several interviews that I was not sure what the next step would be. These ‘hints’ were partly rooted in the fact that our latest album fulfilled all of the expectations, visions and aspects of negativity that I felt I wanted to express with this band, and also, of similar importance, that I felt tired of both the touring aspects, amidst its turbulence and personal differences, and also my role in the band.

“It has been a dark, devoted and spellbinding journey, and as some beings and entities develop, others remain the same. I’ve developed my essence. No questions. However, the legacy of MAYHEM will / must always remain what it always has been, and I wish to thank all parts involved and to wish them all the best for the future. I also would like to thank my followers over the years, from ‘Wolf’s Lair…’ to ‘Ordo…’, my vision has been clear. I’m also sure the band will continue with a respectful formation, and that an eventual album will be placed ‘up there’ where it (should) belong.

“I have now personally chosen to focus on other paths in terms of creativity and vision. My ‘child of heart’ AVA INFERI has already a busy schedule for the future and our third album is being crafted as we speak. I will also resurface with new will and blood in a future extreme project. You have not heard the last of me, on the contrary. It’s all about to begin.

“Note that the few already scheduled shows will go on as planned WITH me.”