I always like it when musicians have a strong set of beliefs, meanings or philosophies they try to express through their music. Deathspell Omega is a good example - as amazing as their music is, it exists as an expression and extension of the deep philosophical positions of the band.

Little-known Portland, OR black metal band Eldrig is another such band. They recently began maintaining an Eldrig Blog which gives some insight into their philosophy and the ideas which go into their songs. It explains the origins of the band name, provides lyrics for the band’s latest release, among other things.

Perhaps the most fascinating tidbit is a post describing the themes behind each song on the band’s debut, along with some original chord/rhythm diagrams used in recording the album. It’s interesting not only reading about the band’s lyrical themes, but also getting an inside look at how Eldrig’s brand of extreme metal is conceived, written down and ultimately recorded.

Check out the Eldrig Blog at http://eldrig.blogspot.com/ and make sure to give the band’s latest release, 2008’s “Mysterion,” a listen as well! Some sample tracks can be found on Eldrig’s MySpace page.