Origin: Switzerland
Formed: 2019
Genre: Melodic Black / Death Metal
Status: Active
Label: Independent
Themes: Not officially listed
Heathen Heretic is a Zürich‑based melodic black/death metal band active since 2019. Their sound fuses sharp, melodic riffing with black‑metal atmospheres and death‑metal weight, often leaning into dramatic dual‑vocal interplay and a modern, polished production style. The band quickly established itself in the Swiss underground with a series of singles that led into their debut full‑length.
Their first releases—Silent Forest (2020), Human (2021), and Charon (2021)—introduced a blend of melancholic melody, aggression, and mythic or existential undertones. These tracks paved the way for The Blessing of Fire and Darkness (2021), their first album, which expanded their sound with more dynamic songwriting and a stronger black‑metal edge.
In 2023, Heathen Heretic released the Heaven’s Damnation EP, refining their melodic identity and incorporating more atmospheric elements. Their upcoming full‑length Whispers from the Abyss (2025) marks the next step in their evolution, promising a darker and more expansive sound.
The band’s lineup includes musicians active in other corners of the Swiss extreme‑metal scene, giving Heathen Heretic a strong networked identity within ZĂĽrich’s underground.
Beer – Bass
See also: Totenheer
Nils Oertig – Drums
See also: ex‑Escape to Orion
Mischa – Lead guitars
Styx – Rhythm guitars, vocals
Viola – Vocals (2021–present)
Silent Forest – Single, 2020
Human – Single, 2021
Charon – Single, 2021
The Blessing of Fire and Darkness – Full‑length, 2021
Heaven’s Damnation – EP, 2023
Whispers from the Abyss – Full‑length, 2025