Four decades.
Countless stages.
One name.
Founded in 1986 in Southern Germany, Ivanhoe have lived through changing line-ups, changing times and an ever-evolving metal scene,
while continuing to follow their own musical path.
From the first demos and early albums to international tours, new beginnings and the band of today, this is the story of Ivanhoe.
01
1986–1993
THE BEGINNING
Ivanhoe were founded in 1986 and spent their early years developing a sound that combined heavy metal with an increasing progressive influence.
The first demos, concerts and line-up changes eventually led to the band’s first albums and laid the foundation for the musical identity Ivanhoe would continue to develop throughout the following decades.
Handwritten list of Ivanhoe's first concerts
02
1994–1997
MAKING THEIR MARK
During the 1990s, Ivanhoe continued to push their sound further into progressive territory. More complex arrangements, melodic elements and a growing musical confidence helped establish the band within the German progressive metal scene.
Albums such as Polarized brought wider attention – and comparisons with some of the international heavyweights of the genre.
Live-Highlight: 1996 · Tour with Iced Earth & Nevermore
03
2001–2010
THE RETURN
After a break around the turn of the millennium, Ivanhoe returned with new energy and a new chapter in the band’s history.
Releases including Walk in Mindfields and Lifeline showed a more mature and modern side of Ivanhoe while keeping the progressive character that had defined the band from the beginning.
Live-Highlight: 2010 · Power Prog Metal Fest, Mons
with Scorpions
Sharing the billing with Scorpions
04
2011–2020
FORGING AHEAD
Change became part of the journey. The release of Systematrix in 2013 marked a heavier and more modern chapter for the band.
IVANHOE kept moving forward. 7 Days arrived in 2015, followed by further line-up changes in 2018. In 2020, the band closed the decade with its eighth studio album, Blood And Gold.
Live-Highlight: 2011 · Bang Your Head!!! Festival
Autograph-sessions at Bang Your Head!!! 2011
05
2021–2026
EVOLVING
More than three decades after the band’s formation, standing still was never really an option. Ivanhoe continued writing, recording and bringing their music to the stage.
Healed by the Sun became another chapter in that journey, leading into 2026 and a milestone few bands get to celebrate: 40 years of Ivanhoe
Live-Highlight: 2025 · European-Tour with Vanden Plas
2025 European Tour
06
THE STORY CONTINUES
Forty years are worth celebrating, but they are not the end of the story.
With new music already taking shape and more live shows ahead, Ivanhoe are looking forward rather than back.
The next chapter is already being written…
Kicking off our 40th anniversary with a local show