Bristol’s Svalbard Announces Breakup, Farewell Tour
BRISTOL – May 8, 2024 – Post-hardcore band Svalbard, based in Bristol, is calling it quits after a decade and a half. The band, known for its intense performances and socially conscious lyrics, announced its breakup, with a farewell tour set to culminate in 2026. The proclamation has left fans and the music community in heartfelt reflection. Fans can expect further updates regarding the band’s final shows.
Bristol’s Svalbard Announces Breakup, Farewell Tour
After 15 years of groundbreaking post-hardcore, Svalbard, the Bristol-based band, has announced its decision to disband. The group, known for its intense performances and socially conscious lyrics, will embark on a series of farewell shows culminating in 2026.
A Decade and a Half of defiance
Formed in 2011 by Serena Cherry, liam Phelan, and Mark Lilley, Svalbard quickly carved out a unique space in the music scene. The band released four critically acclaimed albums:
- ‘One Day All This Will End’ (2015)
- ‘It’s Hard To Have Hope’ (2018)
- ‘When I Die, Will I Get Better?’ (2020)
- ‘The Weight Of The mask’ (2023)
Did You Know?
Svalbard’s name is inspired by the Norwegian archipelago, reflecting the band’s gratitude for stark, powerful landscapes and their commitment to exploring challenging themes in their music.
The Proclamation
The band shared the news on Instagram, stating: 2026 will be the last year of Svalbard.
They explained that the decision came after much reflection
and expressed gratitude to their fans and everyone who has supported us during our 15 years as a band.
The full statement emphasized the band’s appreciation:
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.
svalbard’s instagram Announcement
Farewell Tour dates
Svalbard will embark on a final UK tour in November, followed by tours in Europe and Japan. The band also plans a few more select farewell shows in 2026.
Tickets for the UK shows are available here.
UK Tour Dates: November
- Nov. 19 – Glasgow, Slay
- Nov. 20 – Manchester, Rebellion
- nov. 21 – Newcastle, Think Tank
- Nov. 22 – Bristol, Thekla
- Nov. 23 – London,Oslo Hackney
Reflections from Serena Cherry
Singer Serena Cherry reflected on the band’s journey:
From the moment we formed Svalbard in 2011,all we wanted was to play loud and play shows. Every single moment was exciting to us, from playing DIY squat shows to major metal festivals all over Europe. I think we will always feel a slight state of disbelief over what our noisy little band from Bristol managed to achieve.
Serena Cherry, Svalbard Singer
Cherry also highlighted the band’s commitment to musical integrity and the support they received from the metal community:
We never wanted to create music that was easy to pigeonhole, and I feel proud that we always stayed true to ourselves musically and never restricted our creativity within the genre rule book.The support we received over the years as a band is something that I will carry in my heart forever. It’s a testament to the open-mindedness of the metal community that our sound and our outspokenness was embraced with open arms.
Serena Cherry, Svalbard Singer
She concluded with a heartfelt thank you:
I would like to say a very heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Svalbard, it’s been an incredible journey and we could not have done it without you.
Serena Cherry, Svalbard Singer
Festival Appearance
before their farewell tour, Svalbard is scheduled to perform at Download Festival on June 13.
Pro Tip
For fans attending the farewell shows, arrive early to secure a good spot and consider bringing earplugs to protect your hearing during the intense performances.
