Symphorce
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1998 |
| Founder | Andy B. Franck |
| Defunct | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Germany |
| Products | Progressive metal, power metal music |
Symphorce was a German band specializing in progressive and power metal genres, established in 1998.
History
Symphorce was initiated in October 1998 by vocalist Andy B. Franck. The band's name is a fusion of the words "symphony" and "force." Their first album, Truth to Promises (1999, Noise Records), paved the way for a supporting tour alongside Mercyful Fate. Following several lineup modifications, guitarist Cédric "Cede" Dupont and bassist Dennis Wohlbold joined the group, contributing to an evolution in their musical style.
In 2000, their joint songwriting efforts culminated in the release of their second album, Sinctuary, which gained acclaim as one of Germany's most promising bands. During this period, Andy also became a member of Brainstorm.
By 2002, with the addition of drummer Sasha Sauer and guitarist Markus Pohl, Symphorce unveiled phorcefulAhead under Metal Blade Records, signaling a new chapter for the band. Markus Pohl joined Mystic Prophecy full-time in 2005, while Sascha Sauer left after completing tours across Europe and the United States; he was succeeded by Steffen Theurer in September 2006.
In 2009, work commenced on a new album. In a February 2009 interview, Cédric Dupont spoke about Symphorce’s future plans and introduced his new venture, Downspirit.
The group’s final record, Unrestricted, was released on 15 October 2010 through AFM Records. On 10 October 2011, Andy B. Franck declared that Symphorce had officially disbanded.
By 2016, former members had engaged in other musical projects: Andy B. Franck with Brainstorm and Almanac; Cédric Dupont with Silent Circus; Markus Pohl with Mystic Prophecy and Powerwolf; Dennis Wohlbold with Ruby Shock; and Steffen Theurer with Souldrinker.
Band members
Final lineup
- Andy B. Franck – vocals
- Cédric "Cede" Dupont – guitars
- Markus Pohl – guitars
- Dennis Wohlbold – bass
- Steffen Theurer – drums
Previous members
- Sascha Sauer – drums (2001–2005)
- Stefan Koellner – drums (1999–2000)
- H.P. Walter – keyboards (1998–2002)
- Mike Hammer – bass (1999)
- Stefan Bertolla – guitar (1999)
Discography
- Truth to Promises (1999)
- Sinctuary (2000)
- Phorceful Ahead (2002)
- Twice Second (2004)
- Godspeed (2005)
- Become Death (2007)
- Unrestricted (2010)