Lancer

Lancer is a power metal band formed in 2009 at the Music Academy of Ingesund in Arvika, Sweden. The group comes together through a shared interest in melodic metal and performs a style rooted in power metal, heavy metal and speed metal.

Early activity and first releases

The band begins to play pubs and Swedish festivals after forming and wins the highest points in a Swedish competition for unsigned bands in 2011. It enters the Swedish metal scene with the Purple Sky EP in spring 2012, which attracts a positive response from reviewers in several countries.

Record deals and debut album

Following the reception to the EP, Lancer signs with the Swedish label Doolittle Group AB, which is managed by metal vocalist Christian Liljegren, known for Golden Resurrection and as a former member of Narnia. The band also secures a deal with King Records in Japan, a label that works with European metal acts including Rhapsody of Fire, UDO, Primal Fear, Jorn and Freedom Call. Its debut album is produced by Tommy Reinxeed and Ronny Milianowicz, whose wider work includes collaborations with Michael Kiske, Timo Tolkki, Hammerfall, Primal Fear, Wolf and Amon Amarth.

Line-up

The band consists of Isak Stenvall on vocals, Peter Ellström and Fredrik Kelemen on guitars, Emil Öberg on bass, and Sebastian Pedernera on drums.

Style and live reputation

Lancer is associated with melodic, technically accomplished metal and is described through its focus on strong melodies, technical playing and an energetic live show. Its influences include Iron Maiden, Helloween and HammerFall.