Almost two decades after their formation, Eluveitie are more firmly in the saddle than ever. With the latest album «Ànv» and a packed tour agenda for 2026, the Swiss band is consolidating its status in folk metal. Eluveitie have long been regarded as a defining force in the genre. The formation around mastermind Chrigel Glanzmann combines historical meticulousness with uncompromising musical toughness.
The band's development resembles a continuous journey through Swiss history. Since the release of their ninth album Ànv in April 2025, Eluveitie has further honed their sound. The album skillfully builds bridges. It combines the raw roots of earlier works with the atmospheric density of recent years. Songs like «The Prodigal Ones» deliver the usual force of melodic death metal. At the same time, Fabienne Erni's clear vocals and the Celtic harp provide melody and depth.
Glanzmann repeatedly emphasizes that Eluveitie is more than just an ordinary band. He sees the project as a spiritual endeavor. This claim is also reflected in the instruments. Historical sounds of hurdy-gurdy and bagpipes characterize the sound. They have long since become the band's international trademark.
A special highlight awaits fans in summer 2026: On July 4, the band will play at the Roman Theater in Augusta Raurica near Basel. There could hardly be a better location for Eluveitie's identity. Between rows of ancient stones and in the open air, their music has a special effect. The folk metal gains its own dynamic here. The concert promises a comprehensive setlist. New hymns from «Ànv» meet classics such as Inis Mona. The connection to their own roots is immediately noticeable. On December 13, 2026, the band can be seen at the X-Tra in Zurich.
Their success has long since extended beyond the Alps. Eluveitie will be crossing the oceans again in 2026. Performances on the «70,000 Tons of Metal» cruise in winter will be followed by extensive tours. South and North America are on the agenda. Stops such as the Bangers Open Air in São Paulo underline the band's international standing. The band impressively proves that the combination of ancient mythology and modern energy works and knows no language barriers.
Despite their busy schedule, Eluveitie remain true to their artistic ethos. It's about more than entertainment: the band sees itself as a mediator of Celtic culture in a modern guise. The story of the Helvetii remains at the center of their work. It is consistently embedded in a powerful metal framework. One thing is clear: Eluveitie are not resting on their laurels.