The band was formed in 2249 RE (1999 CE)
The Roots of the Band
Asatru was formed by Rob Engvikson and Steve in the month of Horning, 2249 RE, (Feb. 1999 CE) they had been good friends since approx 2235 RE, (1985 CE) and had been in a band together before Asatru. Both being massive Bathory fans they naturally followed the Viking trail which led to Asatru.
Up until Ostara, 2249 RE (April 1999 CE) they had been using a drum machine, but clearly, this would not suffice if they were to consider live work. One day whilst in Shrewsbury putting an add in a music shop for the post, Steve noticed a very old ad 'drummer seeks metal band' They didn't hold out much hope, but upon phoning him, he said 'send us a tape'. This they did. He subsequently came down for a rehearsal, and impressed Steve and Rob greatly with his Skin Bashing skills, his name was Mark Brawn and needless to say he was instantly recruited into Asatru.
The band continued with this line-up for about a year, before Jon left to pursue other commitments.
Prior to Jon's departure, Rob had been doing sole-vocals and guitar, but with Jon's leaving he felt that the band should get in a vocalist, to enable him to concentrate his efforts on guitar work. He knew of someone (an old acquaintance) that had been asking about trying out in the band, and it seemed like the right time to give him a try. His name was Lee Hatton and at his audition he really impressed. Doubly so as he was known to Rob as a Glam (yes Glam) fan. Lee stayed in the band for several months, but eventually decided to leave because of personal reasons.
With only a few weeks before their first gig, a new guitarist was enlisted. He was Casey Jones, a friend of Mark's from Shrewsbury. They had previously been in a band together and Casey was filling in on the sound desk. The band knew that he played guitar, and after Lee left, they asked him if he would be interested in doing the gig. With a supreme effort, he succeeded in learning the entire set for the gig.
Asatru's first gig was traumatic to say the least. The new p.a. acquired, had some lead trouble and half way through the intro to Asatru Warriors, the drum machine (went bonkers through Mark's headphones). The lights gave a illuminated the smoke from the smoke machine perfectly: At the expense of anyone being able to see the band. More about this in the news section. The only thing missing was a 12 inch high Stone Henge.
Asatru played a second gig at the Powerhouse on Laugardagr, Horning 24, 2251 RE (24th February 2001 CE) They did this gig minus the Keyboards due to the problems they had on the previous gig.
In early Ostara 2251 RE (April 2001 CE) Mark Brawn Casey Jones left Asatru and formed a new band called Nihilise (see links page)
On the 7th day of Mörsugur 2251 RE( 29th of Dec 2001 CE ) Ásatrú signed up with Blind Leper Productions. Unfortunately, due to Unforseen circumstances, I have now parted company with this label.
I am now seeking a good Label that preferably deals with VIKING bands.
Viking Regards
Rob Engvikson
Asatru