Doomed Confessionary: Nicolaj Jul (Grusom)
Hailing from Svendborg, Denmark, Grusom is known for their beautiful blend of psychedelic rock and metal, heavily inspired by the 1970s rock scene, with clear nods to bands like The Doors, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath. This fusion has created a unique and powerful sonic identity, earning them a loyal fanbase both in Denmark and abroad.
Formed in 2013, Grusom consists of Nicolaj Jul (vocals), Thomas Ulrik (guitar), Dennis Warburg (guitar), Peter Partner (keys), Søren Olesen (bass) and Peter Østergaard (drums).
Today, Grusom stands as one of Denmark’s most exciting and innovative rock bands, with a devoted following and a reputation for delivering powerful and unforgettable live experiences. Their music continues to evolve, attracting new listeners while preserving their place as a vital force on the Danish rock scene. Their signature dark rock sound continues to inspire hope in life.
They just released their third full-length album »III« on September 19th, 2025 via Kozmik Artifactz. »III« is a record that is both classic Grusom, and yet ventures further than anything we’ve previously heard from the band. Even stronger melodies, even heavier riffs – but still the same Grusom we’ve loved since 2014!
Can you please say a few words about your band?
Grusom is a 6 man band founded in 2013, in a small town called Svendborg in the south of Denmark. We’re a very diverse bunch of guys, who all have different preferences in music, which is a huge factor in our sound.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Our biggest challenge was probably the time when Covid was a thing. We had took some years apart, but got back together stronger than ever. We really bounced back collectively speaking. We have such a great relationship in the group, which makes it so much fun to make music.
What can you be most proud of so far?
I think were equally proud of all of our records. But personally I think this new record that just came out a month ago, is my proudest moment. I’m so happy with the entire process of making it. All the hours in the studio with my friends, writing and recording. What s journey it has been. But also playing at festivals like Copenhell is up there with these moments.
What was your biggest regret?
I don’t really believe in regrets. It changes nothing regretting what has already happened. But if I have to say something, which is not a regret, but things I could’ve wished were different, it would be, not making an ass of myself at a festival back in 2017.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Back in 2016 we were on an amazing tour, with 3 great bands from Denmark, which was named “Something Is Rotten Tour”. So many crazy moments, and really beautiful memories from those days. Hope to make a lot of new ones in the future.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The biggest surprise has been, the welcoming from the entire heavy metal community. We was not expecting that, when we started out, and they’ve been the ones who really welcomed us into the scene. They are some of the most supportive and amazing people you’ll ever meet.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
I’m really into Primordial at the moment. Well, I have been for years. But they’re in the rotation at the moment. I absolutely LOVE that band. We had the pleasure of playing with them at Aalborg Metal Festival in Denmark a few years back. Definitely also a personal highlight in my time with Grusom.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Uh, great question. Best advice? I think it is as simple as: “Just keep playing, man”. And when my buddy said: “remember to take it all in”, before going on stage at Copenhell 2016. Especially the last one is spot on. Time often flies by SO fast, when you’re playing a show. So yeah. Remember to take it all in.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Hahaha! Fuck! I really like the songs (most of them anyway) from the musical »Moulin Rouge«. There… I said it.
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Svendborg?
It’s a very small town I/we live in. But it actually have a great music scene. The town has got great rehearsal opportunities, and a couple of really nice venues. So a lot of bands are coming out of this little pearl in the south.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
We’re playing at Esbjerg Fuzz Festival on November 8th and at Beta in Copenhagen on November 15th with Katla. Both are shows I’m looking extremely forward to. I’ve always wanted to play Fuzz Festival, and now it’s going to happen. So yeah, stoked!
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Just to make more music, release more records, man, and have a lot of fun doing it. And hopefully play a shit loads of concerts! No one knows what the future holds, but that’s the dream anyway.
How can people best support your band?
The best way people can support Grusom is by coming to our shows, purchasing merchandise and records. That’s what keeps the wheels spinning dude. You’ll find links to both Merch City and Bandcamp on Facebook and Instagram.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Just a big thank you, to all who have supported Grusom over the years. We are extremely grateful and lucky, to have a great music family, who supports us, and have been for so long. It’s a privilege really. So yeah, Thank you!!
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well