Iconic UK Band Svalbard Announces Heartfelt Split After 15 Years











2025-05-31T00:15:37Z

In a surprising turn of events, renowned UK post-metal band Svalbard has announced their impending split on Wednesday, accompanied by the release of their final tour dates. This heartfelt update marks the end of an era for the group, which has carved a niche in the music industry over the past 15 years.
Svalbard, known for their unique blend of post-hardcore, post-metal, and elements of black metal, will embark on a farewell tour beginning in November 2025, bringing their music to fans one last time. The band, which consists of Serena Cherry, Liam Phelan, Mark Lilley, Matt Francis, and Adam Parrish, has its roots in London and Bristol, having formed in 2011.
The upcoming tour will feature performances alongside fellow bands Cage Fight and Knife Bride, highlighting Svalbard’s commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for their loyal fanbase during this farewell phase. In addition to their UK dates, the band has teased a series of shows across Europe, as well as an exciting tour in Japan.
In a candid post shared on their official Instagram account, Svalbard reflected on their decision to conclude their musical journey. They wrote, 'After much reflection, we have decided that 2026 will be the final year of Svalbard. Our final UK tour will be in November 2025. Following that, we will be doing a final EU tour, a final Japanese tour, and a few more select farewell shows in 2026.'
The band expressed their gratitude to fans, stating, 'Thank you to everyone who has supported us during our 15 years as a band. Your support has meant the world to us. We've shared so many unforgettable moments and we look forward to commemorating our last year as a band with you in 2026.'
Lead singer and guitarist Serena Cherry shared her thoughts exclusively with Metal Hammer, emphasizing the band's philosophy of being 'all-or-nothing.' She stated, 'Even though it’s utterly heartbreaking, we have accepted that our musical journey together is reaching its end. We have one song left within us as a band. We want to finish on a decisive high, having released four albums that we are 100 percent proud of.'
Svalbard made a significant impact with their debut album, One Day All This Will End, released in 2015. This album helped establish their reputation for creating emotionally charged music with socially conscious themes, blending various metal subgenres. Over the years, they have shared stages with heavyweights like Enslaved, Alcest, and Cult Of Luna, and have graced some of the most prestigious music festivals, including Hellfest, Summer Breeze, Arctangent, and 2000 Trees.
In an exciting addition to their tour plans, Svalbard is also set to make their debut at the renowned Download Festival this summer, with a performance scheduled for Friday, June 13. This opportunity underscores their lasting influence in the metal scene and promises to be a memorable moment for both the band and their fans.
As Svalbard prepares to bid farewell to their loyal followers, the music community anticipates a series of performances that will celebrate the band's profound impact and legacy in the post-metal genre.
Thomas Fischer
Source of the news: Daily Mail