Well, I don't think we'll tour that much, as we really hope to record a new album during 1998. Of course, we do wish to go to the States for some touring, probably a short tour. And we might go for a short tour of Australia. Our plan is to be touring this year and early next year, and meanwhile to try to write music for the next album. We want to be able, if not to release it in 1998, then at least to record it. There was such a long time between In the Nightside Eclipse and Anthems, and it can't be that long between Anthems and the next album.
Ihsahn / Emperor interview, Chronicles of Chaos, 1997
After Samoth's release from prison, EMPEROR reformed with Ihsahn, Alver and Trym to record Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk in late 1996. Over three years since recording In the Nightside Eclipse. It also marked their return to playing live. One of the first gigs was on this day in 1997 at the Garage, Bergen.
Touring continued through much of 1997, October was the Emperial Anthems Tour.
We've been playing around... We're playing in Athens next weekend, then we'll go on a full European tour in October.
Ihsahn / Emperor interview, Chronicles of Chaos, 1997