In the metal world, there are bands that simply release new songs. And then there are bands that build something bigger: an identity, a universe, a story waiting to be discovered.
CELTIC HILLS belong to this second category.
With their new single “I Am Vril”, the Italian heavy metal band opens a new chapter in its artistic journey: a chapter defined by an international production, a multinational lineup, worldwide media attention and a unique musical vision combining power, melody and storytelling.
This is not just another single release.
It is the result of years of dedication, artistic evolution and a clear direction: creating metal that goes beyond sound and becomes an emotional experience.
When Metal Becomes a Journey
Since their early days, CELTIC HILLS have always believed that music should tell stories.
Their songs are not simply collections of riffs and melodies, but journeys through legends, ancient symbols, epic atmospheres and imaginary worlds where the listener becomes part of the story.
This ability to combine powerful songwriting with a strong narrative identity has allowed the band to build a distinctive place within the international metal scene.
Led by founder Jonathan Vanderbilt, whose voice and guitar work have become trademarks of the band’s identity, CELTIC HILLS combine the tradition of European heavy metal with a personal approach based on melody, atmosphere and emotional depth.
A Band Already Recognized by International Media
Before entering this new era, CELTIC HILLS had already gained international attention through albums such as “Mystai Keltoy” and “Huldufólk”.
The band’s music has been praised for merging European power metal influences, epic atmospheres and a distinctive songwriting style, creating a sound that recalls the spirit of classic acts while maintaining a strong and personal identity.
With “Huldufólk”, CELTIC HILLS reached another important milestone, receiving enthusiastic international reviews and being recognized as Album of the Year 2022 by Metal Pedia.
Edi Žorž joins CELTIC HILLS: a new international chapter begins
In 2026, CELTIC HILLS welcome Slovenian guitarist Edi Žorž as the band’s new lead guitarist, adding his experience, technical ability and deep connection with traditional heavy metal to the group’s evolving sound.
For nearly two decades, Žorž has been one of the most respected musicians in the Slovenian metal scene.
Born on May 26, 1982, in Slovenia, he began his musical journey with Fosgen, before becoming guitarist for Nova Gorica thrash metal band Keller. He later expanded his artistic path through Shutdown, while becoming a key member of Madbringer, the tribute band dedicated to legendary Slovenian heavy metal pioneers Pomaranča.
His connection with Pomaranča reached a major milestone in 2024, when he was invited to perform as surprise guitarist during the band’s 45th anniversary reunion concert at Kino Šiška in Ljubljana. Sharing the stage with founding guitarist Mijo Popovič, Žorž received strong recognition from the Slovenian music community, which celebrated his performance as the contribution of the “sixth horseman” of the legendary band.
His arrival represents more than a lineup change: it strengthens the artistic bridge between the Italian and Slovenian metal scenes and brings a new dimension to the CELTIC HILLS sound.
“I Am Vril”: a new sound from Los Angeles
The first result of this new era is the powerful new single “I Am Vril”.
The track was recorded and produced in Los Angeles by Eddy Cavazza, producer, recording engineer and founder of Silent Ghost International, a creative reality operating between Italy and the United States.
Cavazza’s experience in the rock and metal world includes production work with several international artists and bands, bringing his expertise in sound production and his cinematic approach to the new CELTIC HILLS release.
“I Am Vril” represents a new step forward for the band: a song where epic storytelling, emotional intensity and heavy metal power meet a modern international production.
The track preserves the unmistakable CELTIC HILLS identity while introducing a renewed energy shaped by the new lineup.
A Lineup Without Borders
The new era of CELTIC HILLS is defined by musicians from different countries and backgrounds, united by a shared passion for powerful and melodic heavy metal.
CELTIC HILLS lineup:
- Jonathan Vanderbilt – vocals, guitars
- Edi Žorž – lead guitars
- Luka Stone – drums
- Luca Fumagalli – bass
Luka Stone brings international experience to the band, including collaborations and stage appearances alongside renowned musicians such as Kee Marcello, former guitarist of Europe, and Wade Black, former vocalist of Crimson Glory.
Italy, Slovenia and the United States come together in a formation that perfectly represents the new identity of CELTIC HILLS: European roots with a global vision.
An International Journey Built Over Time
The international dimension of CELTIC HILLS has been built step by step through years of dedication and artistic growth.
The band has expanded its presence beyond Italy through collaborations and appearances on several worldwide metal compilations, including:
- The Metal Music GlobAlliance Compilation Vol. 2, Vol. 3 and Vol. 4
- Mister Folk Compilation Vol. IX
- Metallurg Compilation Vol. 6 and Vol. 7
Their 2025 single “Metaldays”, dedicated to the legendary Slovenian festival, continued this international path with production by Jonathan Vanderbilt and mixing/mastering by German producer Noel Sommerkamp.
The next step will be “Metallurg Compilation Vol. 8”, released by the Polish metal publication Metallurg Magazine, with international distribution scheduled for October, featuring the new single “I Am Vril”.
The Next Step Towards The World
CELTIC HILLS continue their journey with Elevate Records, while promotion and management are handled by SoundsRock Agency from Rome.
After years of growth, international recognition, acclaimed albums, worldwide appearances and a new lineup ready for the next challenge, CELTIC HILLS are entering a new phase.
A band waiting to be discovered.
A story waiting to be told.
A journey that has only just begun.
CELTIC HILLS
New single: “I Am Vril”
Recorded & Produced in Los Angeles by Eddy Cavazza
Label: Elevate Records
Management & Promotion: SoundsRock Agency – Rome
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