Fenris is a black metal band from the Netherlands. Fenris was founded in the first winter of 1997 by Bas Westdorp and Vasco. Shortly after that, Gilbert de Rooy joined the guys as a lead-singer. The band's main objective was to make dark and atmospherical black/viking metal with a deep musical approach. In May 1997 Paul van der Zouwen took his place on the drum seat and for the first time, the four guys formed a steady and complete band. Musically, Fenris combines originality, aggression and power to create a broad black-metal repertoire. The lyrics are, among other topics, about pre-Christian beliefs, spirituality, human suffering and a sense of connection with nature and the elements. The lyrics form an important aspect within the creative cycle of the band. For its stronger cultural effect, some of the lyrics are sung in Dutch, the band's native language.