During his incarceration, Vikernes launched the Norwegian Heathen Front, had two books published, and released two ambient albums as Burzum.
He was sentenced to 21 years in prison, the maximum penalty under Norwegian law. Vikernes said the killing was self-defense and unsuccessfully argued for the charge to be reduced to voluntary manslaughter.
In May 1994, Vikernes was convicted of first-degree murder, church arson and possession of explosives. In August 1993, Vikernes fatally stabbed Mayhem guitarist Euronymous during an altercation at the latter's apartment, and was arrested shortly after. In 1992–1993, he also recorded bass for Mayhem's debut album De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas. Vikernes denied committing the arsons, though he supported them. In 1992, Vikernes, along with other members of the scene, was suspected of burning down four Christian churches in Norway. After founding Burzum, he became part of the early Norwegian black metal scene. Ī native of Bergen, Vikernes began playing guitar at the age of 14 and formed his first band, Kalashnikov, by 1989. In 1994, he was convicted of murder and arson, and subsequently served 15 years in prison. His first four records, issued under the name Burzum from 1991 to 1994, made him one of the most influential figures in black metal.
Louis Cachet (born Kristian Vikernes 11 February 1973), better known as Varg Vikernes ( Norwegian: ), is a Norwegian musician and author best known for his early black metal albums and later crimes.