Summoning

Summoning have built their music around the landscapes, histories and mythology of J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, pairing those themes with atmospheric black metal from their base in Vienna, Austria. Formed in 1993, the band’s lyrics draw extensively on Tolkien’s writings and mythology, giving its releases a distinctly epic and literary focus.

Since 1995, Summoning has consisted of Richard Lederer, known as Protector, and Michael Gregor, known as Silenius. The pair have maintained that lineup while recording eight full-length albums and two EPs for Napalm Records. Their work also incorporates ambient, dungeon synth, folk and medieval elements alongside black metal, with symphonic arrangements central to the band’s expansive sound.

Summoning have never performed live and have repeatedly stated that they have no interest in doing so. Their latest full-length album, With Doom We Come, was released on 5 January 2018.