Origin: Switzerland
Formed: 2007
Genre: Folk Metal
Status: Split‑up (2018)
Label: Independent
Themes: Not officially listed
CastleWay (stylized exactly as CastleWay) was a folk metal band from Vevey, Vaud, active from 2007 to 2018. Known for their medieval‑themed aesthetic, rustic character names, and a melodic approach rooted in European folk traditions, CastleWay carved out a distinctive niche within the Swiss folk‑metal underground. Their music blended triumphant guitar lines, violin‑driven melodies, and rhythmic storytelling, evoking imagery of taverns, forests, and ancient battles.
Their debut full‑length Tales from the Old Times (2013) introduced the band’s narrative‑focused style: warm, melodic folk metal with a strong emphasis on atmosphere and character‑driven songwriting. The album’s tone is nostalgic and adventurous, drawing listeners into a world of wandering heroes, rustic villages, and myth‑tinged tales.
CastleWay reached a wider audience with their second album The Hunt (2017), a more mature and dynamic release that showcased tighter arrangements, stronger production, and a deeper integration of violin and folk motifs. The album’s inclusion of the track “A Shivering Sea” on Fear Candy 166 (Terrorizer Magazine, 2017) marked a significant milestone, giving the band international exposure within the metal press.
The band’s identity was reinforced by their use of medieval archetype‑based stage names—Le BĂ»cheron, Le Paysan, Le Tavernier, Le Purineur, La Forgeronne, and Le Gueux—which added a theatrical, role‑playing dimension to their performances. Their live shows were known for their warm, communal energy, blending folk‑metal enthusiasm with a rustic, tavern‑like atmosphere.
CastleWay disbanded in 2018, leaving behind a small but memorable discography that continues to resonate with fans of melodic, story‑driven folk metal. Their work stands as a testament to the creativity and charm of the Swiss folk‑metal scene during the 2010s.
Le Bûcheron – Bass
Le Paysan – Drums
Le Tavernier – Guitars
Le Purineur – Guitars
La Forgeronne – Violin
Le Gueux – Vocals
Tales from the Old Times – Full‑length, 2013
The Hunt – Full‑length, 2017