Origin: Switzerland
Formed: 2014
Genre: Symphonic Folk Metal
Status: Active
Label: Independent
Location: Zofingen, Aargau
Themes: Instrumental, Bards, Witchcraft, Journeys
Julian Lehmann is a Swiss symphonic folk metal composer and multi‑instrumentalist active since 2014, known for crafting narrative‑driven, fully instrumental concept albums inspired by fantasy lore, nature mysticism, and bardic storytelling. Working as a solo artist, he composes, arranges, and produces all material himself, creating a distinctive sound that blends orchestral grandeur with folk instrumentation and metal‑rooted rhythmic energy.
His debut album Witchery (2015) introduced his signature style: cinematic orchestrations, bright melodic themes, and a strong emphasis on narrative progression without the use of vocals. The album established him as a unique figure in the Swiss underground, appealing to fans of epic fantasy soundtracks as much as to listeners of folk and symphonic metal.
With Mother Nature (2016) and Home of Legends (2017), Lehmann expanded his sonic palette, incorporating richer orchestral layers, Celtic‑influenced melodies, and a more adventurous compositional structure. These works were praised in niche folk metal and soundtrack‑oriented communities for their immersive world‑building and emotional clarity. His music often evokes imagery of enchanted forests, ancient rituals, heroic quests, and mythic landscapes.
Keeper of the Wild (2019) marked a creative peak, offering a more mature and cohesive sound. The album’s themes revolve around wilderness, guardianship, and the spiritual forces of nature, with arrangements that blend sweeping symphonic passages, delicate folk motifs, and rhythmic sections reminiscent of power metal’s uplifting drive.
From 2021 onward, Lehmann shifted toward releasing singles—shorter, self‑contained musical tales such as A Sudden Adventure, The Forgotten River Trail, and Nature Spirit. These tracks highlight his ability to condense narrative arcs into compact compositions while maintaining emotional depth. Later singles like A Crazy Dream (2022) and Dragon Knight (2024) further reinforced his identity as a storyteller‑composer.
His 2025 full‑length Chapter V represents the culmination of a decade of stylistic refinement: a grand, cinematic folk metal opus that synthesizes all elements of his previous work—nature mysticism, fantasy adventure, and symphonic majesty—into a cohesive narrative journey.
Julian Lehmann remains an independent artist, relying on self‑production and direct connection with listeners. His work occupies a unique space between epic soundtrack composition and folk‑infused metal, making him a distinctive voice within the Swiss symphonic folk metal landscape.
Full‑lengths
Singles