Necromance
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1987 |
| Defunct | 2002 |
| Headquarters | Spremberg , Germany |
| Products | Music albums, demos, splits |
Necromance was a Christian gothic metal group originating from Spremberg, Germany, active between 1987 and 2002. Beginning their career under Morbid Records as a death metal outfit, they later transitioned to Pleitegeier Records following a stylistic change. The band earned a following within underground circles, sharing tours with bands such as Demigod. Throughout the 1990s, they released two albums: White Gothic (1997) and Wiederkehr der Schmerzen (1999). Their 2001 release, Tribulation Force, showcased a pronounced industrial metal influence. Necromance performed across Europe and took part in significant events including Germany’s Freakstock festival. Their subsequent records were well received by magazines like Rock Hard and Metal Heart. The band’s frontman, Runhardt Scheffler, frequently penned lyrics centered on eschatological themes.
Biography
Originally formed in 1987 under the name Secret Attack, the band initially played death metal before adopting the name Necromance in 1989. In the early 1990s, they toured Europe alongside acts such as Demigod and Lubricant. The addition of a keyboardist in 1992 marked their shift towards gothic metal. Early outputs included a split CD with Enslaved (Ger) in 1991 and demos like Slow Death (1991), The Dwarf (1992), the split CD Zander (1993), and The Parable of the Weed (1994). A tragic incident occurred in 1993 when right-wing extremists assaulted the band during a concert, resulting in the death of their driver, Mike Zerna. Following the departure of two members in 1994, Necromance embraced Christian motifs in their music. The lineup at that time featured Sandra (vocals, guitar), René (synthesizer), Mike (guitar), and Runhardt (vocals, guitar).
Their first album, White Gothic, was recorded in 1997, which led to signing with Pleitegeier Records. The 1999 album Wiederkehr der Schmerzen introduced stronger industrial elements that became more evident on their 2001 album Tribulation Force. This record included new vocalist Raphaela Polterman and returning drummer Jean Schulze. Produced by Mozart and Lutz Demmler from the German gothic/industrial band Umbra et Imago, it involved increased production expenses but lacked sufficient promotional support from the label. As a result, Necromance sold their equipment to cover costs and ultimately disbanded in April 2002.
Following their breakup, no additional recordings have been issued. Their official website was taken down after previously offering free downloads of their first two albums. On December 23, 2007, an official MySpace page was launched.
Music
Necromance’s sound is deeply influenced by classic romantic gothic styles akin to groups like Bauhaus, London After Midnight, and Fields of the Nephilim, while blending abstract industrial elements. Some songs preserve traces of their German death metal roots, particularly through harsh vocal delivery. The majority of lyrics are written in English, with occasional tracks performed in German. Their guitar-driven compositions combine minimalist arrangements, rhythmic drums suited for dancing, somber moods, and orchestral keyboard layers. Vocals alternate between male and female voices, featuring Runhardt’s deep and forceful singing style. Lyrical content often explores apocalyptic themes inspired by the Book of Revelation.
Discography
- Studio Albums
- White Gothic (1997)
- Wiederkehr der Schmerzen (1999)
- Tribulation Force (2001)
- Demos
- Slow Death (1991)
- The Dwarf (1992)
- The Parable of the Weed (1994)
- Splits
- Enslaved/Necromance (1991)
- Zander (1993)
Members
- Final Lineup
- Runhardt Scheffler – guitar, vocals (1987–2002)
- Raphaela Poltermann – female vocals (1999–2002)
- René Schwulera – synthesizer (1993–2002)
- Jean Schulze – drums (1987–1994, 1999–2002)
- Previous Members
- Mike Winkler – guitar (1987–1999)
- Sandra Bogdan – female vocals (1987–1999)
- Mike Petrick – bass, vocals
- Mario Eckert – bass
- Madelaine Sheffler – bass