Van Canto

These days it's not easy for a band to be unique and to stand out from the crowd. VAN CANTO however do just that! The innovative concept of playing heavy metal exclusively with five singers and one drummer has gained them a dedicated and rapidly-growing following. The history of this German band has been eventful to say the least. Their self-produced debut album "A Storm To Come" (2006) received euphoric praise at home and abroad. VAN CANTO played many concerts, including a number of shows with NIGHTWISH and a performance at the renowned German Wacken Open Air Festival. During a trip to South America in summer 2008, the band experienced their rise in popularity first-hand. The band became an even tighter unit when GUN Records signed them and re-released "A Storm To Come" in December 2007. Less than a year later, in September 2008, VAN CANTO delivered "Hero", a celebration of epic melodies, a collection of the finest heavy metal, in short: a must-have.

VAN CANTO was founded by Stefan "Stef" Schmidt in early 2006. His aim was to introduce fresh ideas to the German metal scene. He wanted to play authentic heavy metal with melodies and power, but he decided to completely forego guitars, bass, and keyboards. These instruments were to be emulated with vocal chords instead. Only a drummer was added to the a-cappella line-up in order to provide additional power. Stef recorded several self-penned songs and two cover versions together with some friends. Commented Stef: "I was lucky that everyone I asked agreed to participate. Little did we know how much we were going to like it ourselves." The project had turned into a full band by the time "A Storm To Come" was released in December 2006. Each member had previously gained experience in other bands: Stef, for example, had been the singer/guitarist of Jester's Funeral, lead vocalist Dennis "Sly" Schunke used to front Synasthasia, and Inga Scharf was the female voice of Fading Starlight. But only the line-up of VAN CANTO had the right chemistry!

Now, after having released two albums and successfully touring Germany, VAN CANTO are already back in the Twilight Hall Studios, again working with Charlie Bauerfeind on their third album that is supposed to be out at the beginning of 2010 via the Austrian label Napalm Records. The album will contain at least 11 own songs, and perhaps one or two bonus tracks. They will not do as many covers as on the last album, but at least one cover will find its way. (näytä vähemmän)

These days it's not easy for a band to be unique and to stand out from the crowd. VAN CANTO however do just that! The innovative concept of playing heavy metal exclusively with five singers and one drummer has gained them a dedicated and rapidly-growing following. The history of this German band has been eventful to say the least. Their self-produced debut album "A Storm To Come" (2006) received euphoric praise at home and abroad. VAN CANTO played many concerts, including a number of shows with... (lue lisää)