Manntra

Manntra emerged from Umag, Croatia, in 2011, following the dissolution of the industrial metal act Omega Lithium. Founded by Marko Matijević Sekul and Zoltan Lečei, the band represents a deliberate evolution from pure industrial sounds toward a 'Balkan Metal' identity.

Their sound identity is built on the integration of traditional Croatian instruments - such as the sopele, tamburica, and diple - into a framework of high-gain guitars and electronic sequencing. This fusion places them in a unique intersection between the 'Neue Deutsche Härte' (NDH) scene and the broader European folk metal movement. Historically, they transitioned from singing exclusively in Croatian to incorporating English and German, a move that significantly expanded their footprint in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and Russia. Critical consensus highlights their ability to maintain a 'tribal' rhythmic intensity while utilizing modern studio techniques. They are a bridge between the heritage-focused neofolk movement and the high-energy demands of the modern metal festival circuit.