HEILUNG THE INNER CIRCLE

Formed around the nucleus of Maria Franz, Christopher Juul and Kai Uwe Faust, Heilung stormed into the metal world’s consciousness like an exotic, extra-terrestrial meteorite last year with two spectacular, consciousnessaltering debut shows at the Netherlands’ Castlefest and Norway’s Midgardsblot festivals. Steeped in Shamanic belief and practices, the agents of “amplified history” quickly become a cause célèbre and a reservoir of spiritual resonance. Their live recordings have gained almost 8.5m hits on YouTube, and follow-up shows, including their debut UK gig at Islington Assembly Hall in November, quickly sold out.

“What you see in this picture,” says vocalist Maria Franz, “is the inner circle of Heilung. Linked and indestructible, standing in the same manner as we do with the full group in the opening ceremony of our performances. The three of us represent the core of creating the music, which is more than notes and beats, but a ritual with a message.”