Origin: Switzerland
Formed: 2013
Genre: Folk Metal
Status: Active
Label: Independent
Themes: Battles, Legends, Fantasy
Battle Tales is a folk metal band from PalĂ©zieux, Vaud, active since 2013 and known for their energetic blend of melodic metal, traditional storytelling, and fantasy‑driven themes. Their music draws heavily from epic narratives—ancient battles, heroic sagas, and myth‑tinged folklore—delivered through a sound that balances heaviness with uplifting, melodic hooks. The band’s identity is rooted in the classic European folk‑metal tradition, but with a distinctly Swiss character and a strong emphasis on narrative cohesion.
Their first release, the Demo (2015), introduced Battle Tales’ foundational style: driving riffs, powerful vocals, and a melodic sensibility that leans toward the heroic and the cinematic. The debut full‑length The Ire of the Condemned (2018) expanded their sound significantly, offering a more polished production and a deeper exploration of fantasy‑based storytelling. The album was well‑received in the underground for its balance of aggression and melody, as well as its ability to evoke vivid narrative imagery.
In 2019, the band released the EP Lè lèjande dè vĂŞr no, notable for incorporating regional linguistic elements and a more intimate, folklore‑oriented atmosphere. This release demonstrated the band’s willingness to explore cultural specificity and expand their thematic palette beyond traditional fantasy tropes.
Their most recent full‑length, Greed of a King (2024), marks Battle Tales’ most mature and ambitious work to date. The album blends triumphant folk melodies with heavier, more dramatic arrangements, exploring themes of power, corruption, and mythic downfall. It showcases the band’s growth in composition, storytelling, and instrumental interplay, solidifying their place within the Swiss folk‑metal landscape.
Battle Tales’ lineup has remained relatively stable, with founding members Benjamin Bonjour and Romaric Gendre forming the backbone of the band’s sound. Their chemistry, combined with the contributions of drummer Kris Beaud and guitarist Manuel Cordova, gives the band a cohesive and dynamic musical identity. Live performances emphasize energy, camaraderie, and a strong connection with the audience—qualities that have helped the band build a loyal following.
Benjamin Bonjour – Bass (2013–present)
Romaric Gendre – Vocals (2013–present)
Kris Beaud – Drums (2015–present)
Manuel Cordova – Guitars (2015–present)
Past members
Guillaume Gendre – Guitars (2013–2015)
Demo – Demo, 2015
The Ire of the Condemned – Full‑length, 2018
Lè lèjande dè vêr no – EP, 2019
Greed of a King – Full‑length, 2024