BELLFAST

BELLFAST is a folk metal band from Japan, formed in Nagoya in 1993 by bassist Shuji Matsumoto. Initially, the band focused on progressive hard rock with an Irish/Celtic atmosphere, releasing their debut EP "Faraway Prayers" in 2001. Over time, BELLFAST evolved into a seven-piece folk metal band, incorporating violin and flute into their sound. They signed with King Records in 2010 and released their first full-length album "Insula Sacra," followed by "Triquedraco" in 2017. Their music blends traditional heavy metal aggression with folkloric elements reminiscent of bands like Thin Lizzy and Turisas. BELLFAST is known for maintaining an authentic heavy metal sound while incorporating folk and Viking influences.

The band's current lineup includes Koh Nishino on vocals, Makoto Kano and Taro Arai on guitars, Yumiko on flute, Izumi Takeuchi on violin, Masaki Ikeda on bass, and Shingo Uchida on drums. BELLFAST experienced significant lineup changes in early 2023, but they continue to develop their unique sound. Their discography includes notable albums like "Insula Sacra" and "Triquedraco," with a third album scheduled for release in October 2024.