An iconic British band has shocked fans by announcing their split this week after a 15-year stint in the music industry. The post-metal group Svalbard broke the sad news as they unveiled their final tour dates in an emotional update to their followers. The band, formed in 2011, consists of five members; Serena Cherry, Liam Phelan, Mark Lilley, Matt Francis and Adam Parrish.
Their debut in 2015, One Day All This Will End, earned them recognition for blending post-hardcore, post-metal and black metal with emotionally charged, socially aware lyrics. Svalbard have supported big names like Enslaved, Alcest and Cult Of Luna, and have graced stages at festivals such as Hellfest, Summer Breeze, Arctangent and 2000 Trees.
The band, who are based between London and Bristol, are set to conclude their successful 15-year career in the music industry next year. However, before that, they have some major gigs lined up. They’re also scheduled to make their first appearance at Download Festival this summer, with a slot booked for Friday, June 13, reports the Mirror.
They have announced their final UK tour dates and a new song before their official split. The tour is due to kick off in November and will give fans one last performance alongside Cage Fight and Knife Bride. The band has also hinted at a series of shows across Europe. On Wednesday, May 28, the band posted on Instagram where they also disclosed that they will be touring Japan. The post read: “After much reflection, we have decided that 2026 will be the final year of Svalbard.
“‘Our final UK tour will be in November 2025. Following that, we will be doing a final EU tour, a final Japanese tour and a few more select farewell shows in 2026. Thank you to everyone who has supported us during our 15 years as a band. Your support has meant the world to us. We’ve shared so many unforgettable moments and we look forward to commemorating our last year as a band with you in 2026”.
Fellow musician Julian Gage remarked: “So sad about this, you guys were the first band to give us a shot as an opener and I have the fondest memories from that tour! thanks for everything legends.” One fan penned: “I hope to see you on the European tour. I wish you much success with your new projects, but my heart breaks a little,” another scribbled: “I hope you guys will still be making music.”
A third jotted down: “This news sucks but you lot have crushed it for so many years! ! Absolute legacy!”.
