Chthonic (閃靈樂團; sometimes typeset ChthoniC) is a Taiwanese melodic black metal band that incorporates influences from traditional Taiwanese music including instruments such as the erhu (which is called a hena in their native Taiwanese). The band's stated goal is to use their music to bring ancient history and mythology into the modern era, especially the tragic history and unique myths of Taiwan (for example, those of the Seediq people). The name "Chthonic" is a Greek word which refers to the earth and can have implications of the underworld.
In 2003, they won the Best Band Award at the Taiwan Golden Melodies Award Ceremony. The band is also banned in parts of China for their political views.
The lead vocalist, Freddy Lim, is notably active in the political scene and supports Taiwan independence.
In 2007 he and other artists organized an international music festival to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the 228 Incident, entitled "Spirit of Taiwan: With justice we cure this nation".
On March 30, 2007, it was confirmed that Chthonic were to be part of the 2007 Ozzfest tour as a rotating second stage act. While taking part in Ozzfest, they also toured as a support act for Nile in July and August and as a headliner in September.
On August 3, 2007, Chthonic flew from the United States to Germany to play at Wacken Open Air. Unfortunately, their instruments were not delivered on time, so Su-Nung had to play a keyboard instead of his erhu.
Current members Freddy Lim a.k.a. Freddy, Left Face of Maradou - vocals (former erhu player) Jesse Liu a.k.a. Jesse, the Infernal - guitar Doris Yeh a.k.a. Doris, Thunder Tears - bass guitar, backing vocals Dani Wang a.k.a. Dani, the Azathothian Hands - drums CJ, Dispersed Fingers - keyboard Su-Nung, the Bloody String - erhu
Former members A-Jay Tsai - drums Luis Wei Vivien - keyboard Ambrosia - keyboard
Official Site: http://chthonic.org/ Official English Site: http://chthonic.org/eng
Source: http://artists.letssingit.com/chthonic-dhcvz/biography
