Release date: 04072023 | 🇫🇷 France 🇫🇷 | Band: Bansidh | Genre: Folk/Death Metal | Album: Orgetontiros
Bansidh (France)
Bansidh is a rising force in the Folk/Death Metal scene, hailing from Angers, Pays de la Loire. Formed in 2014, the band has carved out a unique niche by blending the aggressive, technical foundations of Melodic Death Metal with traditional Celtic and Gaulish folk instrumentation. They are particularly noted for their historical focus on the Andecavi (a Gallic tribe from the Angers region).
Band Overview
- Origin: Angers, France
- Formed: 2014
- Genre: Folk / Melodic Death Metal
- Lyrical Themes: Gaulish history, Celtic mythology, and the regional history of Andecavorum (ancient Angers).
- Language: Lyrics are written in a mix of Gaulish, English, and French.
History & Cultural Identity
Bansidh (a name derived from the Irish “Banshee”) began as an ambitious project to revitalize the ancient Gallic spirit through modern extreme music. Unlike many “party-oriented” folk metal bands, Bansidh maintains a darker, more epic atmosphere.
Their evolution reached a peak with the release of their first major works, where they integrated traditional instruments like the Celtic harp, flutes, pipes, mandolin, and the bodhrán directly into a heavy metal framework. The band identifies as “Gaulish Death/Folk Metal,” emphasizing archaeological and historical accuracy in their storytelling.
Featured Album: Orgetontiros
Released on July 4, 2023, Orgetontiros is a conceptually rich album that solidified their reputation in the underground European scene. The title refers to Orgetorix, a powerful chieftain of the Helvetii, and the songs explore the tribal politics and warfare of ancient Gaul.
Key Characteristics:
- Atmosphere: A balance between brutal blast beats and delicate, acoustic folk interludes.
- Instrumentation: Features prominent use of the bagpipes and harp, which provide a melodic counterpoint to the guttural vocals and heavy distortion.
- Track Highlights: The album features tracks that delve into the struggles of the Celtic peoples against expanding empires.
Band Members
The group is known for its large, ensemble-style lineup, allowing them to perform their folk elements live without relying solely on backing tracks:
- Corentin: Vocals (since 2019)
- Ludo: Rhythm Guitar
- Alex: Lead Guitar
- Max: Drums
- Léonard: Celtic Harp
- Malfy: Bass
- Elodie: Flute, Pipes, Mandolin, Bodhrán
Discography Summary
- An Alisos (Single, 2021)
- Orgetontiros (Full-length Album, 2023)