Band Biography

SOLOTHURN are an Alt-Metal band based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, who draw influence from bands like Alice in Chains, Deftones, Kerbdog, Therapy?, Helmet, Tool and Soundgarden. Their music combines heavy, melodic riffs and hook-laden vocals with stoner rock grooves to create reverb-drenched walls of noise.

The band was conceptualised in Dec 2022 by experienced members of the Irish heavy music scene (Involution, Electric Red, Annapurna, Toska) and after an extensive search for like-minded additions, the line-up was completed in 2023 when they were joined by ex-Mondo Generator (Nick Oliveri) member, Simon "Spud" Beggs, on guitar.

The band spent several months honing their craft through rehearsals and pre-production before recording their debut EP at Bootown Studios on the North Coast. The engineering, mixing and production was all handled in-house and further represents the band's DIY ethos.

The ‘Servitude’ EP was released in November 2023 and explores themes of the modern urban reality against a backdrop of failing government, societal despair, addiction and general disenfranchisement. It’s a reflection of the environment in which it was crafted - the crumbling and ruinous Belfast inner city.

In late 2023, the EP garnered strong interest from media outlets across Ireland, UK, Europe, including being shortlisted in various categories such as EP of the Year, Single of the Year and Irish Newcomer of the Year. 'Servitude' represents a body of work which the band will continue to expand upon.

Solothurn made their live debut in December 2023 and after only 4 gigs, reached the Final of Northern Ireland's 'Metal 2 The Masses' (Bloodstock) in May 2024. This competition was made up of 24 bands from across the region. The band have set the bar high for moving forward, with Uber-Rock.co.uk describing the live performance as a "dominant and domineering exhibition".