Kvelertak Issue Statement on Erlend Hjelvik’s Departure, Reveal New Album Plans

Fans of Kvelertak were dealt a huge blow yesterday when frontman Erlend Hjelvik — who was more synonymous with Kvelertak’s identity than anyone else in the band — announced he would be leaving, effective immediately. In his statement, Erlend mentioned four upcoming shows the band had planned without him, although only one seems to have been announced so far; this coming Friday, July 20th, at Fjellparken in Flekkefjord, Norway.

The remaining members of Kvelertak have now issued a statement of their own regarding Erlend’s departure, saying they’ll reveal his replacement AT the show this Friday. A new album is also in the works, tentatively scheduled for release in 2019.

Here’s the band statement, posted late yesterday on Facebook:

“We have known for a while that Erlend has planned to step down, so we have had the necessary time to plan the way going forward and also find a new vocalist for Kvelertak.

“The original plan was to finish up the festival season with Erlend, but as Erlend is not able to do so, we are therefore proudly announcing our newest member at the upcoming show Friday, July 20th, at Fjellparken, Norway.

“We would like to thank Erlend Hjelvik for his contribution to the band, and wish him all the best for the future.

“-Vidar, Maciek, Bjarte, Marvin, Kjetil

“Kvelertak is currently working on their next album, intended for release in 2019.”

Erlend’s got some big shoes to fill. Who’s it gonna be? We will, of course, keep you posted.