Karelius Ihlang (born 29 September 1999), known professionally as Eldrasil, is a Norwegian drummer, composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist whose work expands across extreme metal, atmospheric music, and contemporary piano composition. Born in Fredrikstad and raised in Årnes near Jessheim, he began playing drums at the age of six, quickly developing a style defined by emotional weight and technical intensity.

Fueled by relentless dedication and passion, Karelius quickly developed into a drummer capable of blending technical precision with raw emotional depth. He first made waves as a member of the notorious black metal band Jotnir before joining forces with Eldamar and Askheimr in 2019. With Eldamar, he has graced stages at renowned festivals across Germany and other European countries, drawing new fans with each performance. In 2025, Karelius further solidified his place in the extreme metal scene by becoming the drummer for Paracrona, where he performs alongside ex-Borknagar guitarist Jens Fredrik Ryland, adding even more weight to his growing reputation in the global metal community.

In 2023, Karelius answered an emotional calling by creating his solo project Belfalas. Rooted in atmospheric black and death metal traditions, Belfalas focuses on melodic expression, weaving soundscapes that balance introspection with epic intensity. Through this project, Karelius has showcased not only his drumming but also his vision as a composer dedicated to crafting music of depth and beauty.

Music flows deeply in his blood. His biological father is Gisle Røen Johansen, an acclaimed Norwegian jazz saxophonist, flutist, and composer, celebrated for his mastery on tenor and soprano saxophone and his contributions to the Norwegian jazz scene since the 1990s. Beyond his solo and ensemble work, Gisle also played in the jazz group Element, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and respected musician. On his mother’s side, Karelius carries a proud Romani heritage, inheriting a cultural lineage rich in rhythm, resilience, and expressive tradition. Together, these influences have shaped Eldrasil into the artist he is today - a drummer and composer whose work unites technical brilliance with emotional intensity.

TESTIMONIAL:
"Eldrasil endorses Soultone Cymbals for their unmatched sound and feel that sets them apart from the rest. The aesthetic appeal and high quality of their cymbals, particularly the extreme series, elevate my performances to another level. They not only stand out sonically but also in recordings. I highly recommend Soultone for anyone seeking top-notch quality at an accessible price. Their team is incredibly supportive and professional, helping me grow as a drummer every step of the way!"