The IVth Crusade saw Bolt Thrower leaning into a more melodic, yet still brutal, death metal sound, featuring Karl Willetts's signature barked vocals and a powerful rhythm section.
- The album was recorded at Rhythm Studios in Manchester and engineered by Colin Richardson. It was the band's first release on Earache Records. The album's artwork features a medieval-themed illustration by Mark Wilkinson.
- The IVth Crusade reached number 6 in the UK Indie Chart. It is often cited as a landmark album in the death-doom metal genre. Many fans consider this album to be among Bolt Thrower's finest work.
- The album title is a reference to the Fourth Crusade, a medieval military expedition. The lyrics largely explore themes of war and conflict, a recurring motif in Bolt Thrower's discography. This release followed their critically acclaimed album, Realms of Chaos.
Bolt Thrower is a death metal band from Coventry, England, formed in 1986. They are considered one of the pioneers of the death-doom metal sound. The IVth Crusade was released during a period of increasing war-themed lyrical content and a more polished production.
Tracklist
