Norwegian blackened death metallers FESTER have issued the following update:

"When FESTER released their first album in 18 years earlier this year, it felt like coming home. Even though 18 years is a long time, it felt good to be back. There's something quite special about the feeling of transending primal feelings into music.. The album got to be our darkest and coldest to date and it felt just right to entitle it 'A Celebration Of Death', even though it actually was a rebirth..

"We have always felt like the beast under the bed, like the fifth wheel on the wagon, like the wound that won't heal, but nevertheless, we are our own beasts and we will continue to make these expressions without trying to please a sertain crowd.

"To those who stand tall with us: don't EVER let anyone pull you down and make you feel less. Be proud and stand in the shadows with a pleased grin.

"We are looking forward to record another album in 2013, and we salute those who will take part in our obscurity, and we wish you all the best for 2013!!!"

"A Celebration Of Death" was released in March 2012 through Abyss Records.

In addition to core members Jon Bakker (bass), Thomas Andersen (vocals) and Bjorn "Tiger" Mathisen (guitar/vocals), "A Celebration Of Death" features Audun Kleive (session drums), Raymond Pellicer (additional guitars, programming and synth), Eivind Aarseth (additional guitars), Guido Saint Roch (guest vocals on "Metalized") and Mortiis (Dark Converter). The cover for "A Celebration Of Death" was painted by artist Eliran Kantor (TESTAMENT, SODOM, ATHEIST, SIGH, ANACRUSIS). The rest of the layout was handled by Joce of Industrie Chimere Noire (PORTAL, GHÄST, TOTAL HOLOCAUST). The CD release includes a 16-page booklet.