“KISS was instant attraction because they looked like Satan” – Borknagar’s ICS Vortex shares his story as a metal vocalist 

ICS Vortex (born Simen Hestnæs) is one of Norway’s most versatile and distinctive vocalists in extreme metal. Known for his powerful clean vocals and impressive range, he first gained significant attention as the frontman for the avant-garde metal band Arcturus. His career expanded when he joined atmospheric black/folk metal pioneers Borknagar, where his unique vocal style became a signature element of the band’s sound.

Vortex achieved wider recognition during his tenure with symphonic black metal giants Dimmu Borgir from 1999 to 2009, where his clean vocal parts created a dramatic contrast to Shagrath’s harsh vocals. Following his departure from Dimmu Borgir, he returned to Arcturus and Borknagar while also pursuing a solo career under the ICS Vortex name.

His distinctive operatic style and ability to seamlessly blend with various extreme metal subgenres have made him one of the most respected vocalists in the Norwegian metal scene and beyond.

We sat down with ICS Vortex before Arcturus took the stage at 70000TONS OF METAL cruise and discussed about his story as a metal vocalist from the very early days until present. You can check out the latest episode to the metal frontman video series below:

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