One of New Zealand’s most reputable acts, City Of Souls was formed in August 2015 by guitarists Trajan Schwencke (Cold by Winter, In Dread Response) and Steve Boag (In Dread Response, Blacklistt). Vocalist Richie Simpson (New Way Home) found their existing tracks immediately captivating and joined the band. Guitarist Marcus Powell (founding member of multi-platinum bands Blindspott and Blacklistt) then joined, and the line-up was complete with Daniel Insley on Bass (Solstate) and Drummer Corey Friedlander (In Dread Response, 8 Foot Sativa).
The credentials are strong in this band going back over 20 years in the Auckland hardcore, post hardcore, prog and metal scenes. However, arriving at a new more mature sound, deeper influences and a crystallised vision of what to bring to the world they've set themselves firmly apart from their previous exploits.