---
name: "Hellhammer"
band: "Mayhem"
genre: "Black Metal"
country: "Norway"
primary_brand: "Sonor"
profile_url: "https://metalforge.io/drummer/hellhammer"
source: "https://metalforge.io"
last_updated: "2026-06-06"
---

# Hellhammer

Hellhammer is a professional metal drummer best known for their work with Mayhem, a defining act in black metal.

## Quick Facts

| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | Hellhammer |
| Band | Mayhem |
| All bands | Mayhem, Arcturus, Dimmu Borgir |
| Genre | Black Metal |
| Country | Norway |
| Primary brand | Sonor |
| Drum kit | Sonor SQ2 Heavy Beech |
| Signature snare | Sonor SQ2 14x5.5" Maple |
| Sticks | Vic Firth American Classic 5B |

## Biography

Jan Axel Blomberg, known as Hellhammer, born in 1969, is a Norwegian drummer best known for his work with black metal pioneers Mayhem. He joined Mayhem in 1988 and has been a constant presence through the band's turbulent history. Hellhammer is credited with helping define the black metal drumming style, characterized by fast blast beats and raw, aggressive playing. Beyond Mayhem, he has played with numerous projects including Arcturus, Dimmu Borgir, and Shining. His influence on extreme metal drumming is immeasurable.

Hellhammer (born Jan Axel Blomberg on August 2, 1969, in Oslo, Norway) is a Norwegian drummer widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in black metal history. Best known as the longtime drummer of the pioneering black metal band Mayhem, he has also contributed to numerous other projects including Arcturus, Dimmu Borgir, and Shining.

Hellhammer joined Mayhem in 1988, becoming their most enduring member and the rhythmic foundation of the band through its most turbulent years. His drumming combines raw black metal aggression with surprising technical sophistication, and his influence on the genre cannot be overstated. He has recorded with over 40 different bands and artists.

## Band History

- **Mayhem** — 1988–present (current)
- **Arcturus** — 1991–present (current)
- **Dimmu Borgir** — 2005–2010

## Gear

- **Drums:** Sonor SQ2 Heavy Beech
- **Snare:** Sonor SQ2 14x5.5" Maple
- **Cymbals:** Paiste (14" RUDE Hi-Hats, 18" & 19" RUDE Crashes, 20" RUDE Ride, 18" RUDE China)
- **Hardware:** Axis Double Pedal, Sonor Drummer Throne, Roland Electronics
- **Sticks:** Vic Firth American Classic 5B

## Notable Performances

- Mayhem - Hellhammer Drumcam 2015 (2015)
- Mayhem - Chainsaw Gutsfuck (Drum Cam) (2019)
- Hellhammer Sound Check 2024 (2024)

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What drum kit does Hellhammer play?**

A: Hellhammer plays a Sonor SQ2 Heavy Beech.

**Q: What cymbals does Hellhammer use?**

A: Hellhammer uses Paiste (14" RUDE Hi-Hats, 18" & 19" RUDE Crashes, 20" RUDE Ride, 18" RUDE China).

**Q: What band is Hellhammer in?**

A: Hellhammer drums for Mayhem, a black metal band.

---

**Full interactive profile:** [Hellhammer on MetalForge](https://metalforge.io/drummer/hellhammer)

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*Last updated: 2026-06-06 · Source: [MetalForge.io](https://metalforge.io)*