Origin: Switzerland
Formed: 2015
Genre: Symphonic Folk / Viking Metal
Status: Active
Label: Independent
Themes: Norse mythology, Vikings
Forge is a Swiss symphonic folk/viking metal band originally founded in Wangen an der Aare (Bern) in 2015 before later relocating to Olten (Solothurn). Their sound blends melodic folk instrumentation—especially violin—with symphonic arrangements and the heroic, battle‑driven atmosphere of Viking metal. Forge’s music is rooted in Norse mythology, warrior sagas, and epic storytelling, delivered with a strong melodic sensibility and a theatrical edge.
Their first release, the A Dark Prophecy maxi‑single (2016), introduced their symphonic‑folk foundation. This was followed by the Heimdall Demo (2017), which laid the groundwork for their debut full‑length Heimdall (2018), a concept album centered on the mythic guardian of the Bifröst. The record showcased the band’s blend of violin‑driven folk melodies, clean and harsh vocals, and cinematic arrangements.
In 2022, Forge released the Belial EP, expanding their sound with darker tones and more dramatic orchestration while maintaining their Viking‑folk identity.
The band has also appeared on international metal compilations, including Metalmessage’s Respect the Steel and Imperative Music Volume XVI, with the track “The Death of a Warrior.”
Forge’s lineup has evolved significantly over the years, with several bassists and live vocalists contributing to their sound. The current formation features a strong core of instrumentalists and vocalists active in other Swiss metal projects.
Skjöldur – Violin (2015–present)
Ragnar – Vocals (2015–present)
Franky – Drums (2019–present)
See also: ex‑Dreams in Fragments
Gjöll – Bass (2022–present)
Christian Geissmann – Guitars (2022–present)
See also: Dreams in Fragments, Majesty of Silence, Proxima
Chauti – Bass (2015–2017)
Hödur – Rhythm guitars (2016–2022)
See also: Projekt Krank
Shadow – Bass (2017–2019)
See also: Dark Shadow
Snotra – Bass (2019–2022)
Stephan Kaufmann – Bass (2019–?)
See also: Green Labyrinth, ex‑Emerald
Sarah Wauquiez – Backing vocals, hurdy‑gurdy (2019–?)
See also: ex‑Eluveitie
Seraina Schöpfer – Female vocals (2019–?)
See also: Dreams in Fragments, Green Labyrinth
A Dark Prophecy – Maxi‑single, 2016
Heimdall Demo – Demo, 2017
Heimdall – Full‑length, 2018
Belial – EP, 2022