Voivod

VOIVOD's Cosmic Shift: E-FORCE Takes the Helm as Snake Steps Back

By Jason •
In a twist of fate, former VOIVOD frontman Eric Forrest steps in as Denis 'Snake' Bélanger takes a personal hiatus.

In a move that resonates through the metal cosmos, VOIVOD's iconic frontman Denis "Snake" Bélanger is temporarily sidelined for the band's European tour this summer due to a pressing family matter. The band has summoned Eric Forrest, the powerhouse vocalist and bassist who once roamed the stages with VOIVOD between 1994 and 2000, to fill the void. This reunion is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's a testament to the unbreakable bonds within the VOIVOD family.

Forrest made his return to the VOIVOD fold at Analog Music Hall in Budapest on July 14, 2026, where he unleashed an electrifying setlist that spanned the band's sprawling discography. From the opener "Rise" to the frenetic cover of Pink Floyd's "Astronomy Domine," the energy was palpable, proving that the spirit of VOIVOD remains as fierce as ever, even in the absence of its legendary frontman.

When the news of Snake's temporary departure broke on June 26, the band released a heartfelt statement emphasizing that family comes first. After receiving heavy news that demanded his attention, Snake was faced with the heart-wrenching choice of canceling the summer tour. However, with Eric’s readiness to step in, the tour continued, allowing fans to experience the might of VOIVOD live once again.

As the band prepares to storm stages across Europe, Eric expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to keep the VOIVOD legacy alive. He stated, "I am honored and blessed to be asked to fill in for Snake this summer, to keep the VOIVOD fans, band, legacy in motion!!" This sentiment echoes the fierce loyalty that fans have for the band, and the community that surrounds it.

In the shadows of this reunion, both Snake and Forrest are facing personal battles, with Snake's partner fighting stage four colorectal cancer and Forrest navigating his own health challenges. Their struggles remind us that even the titans of metal are human, grappling with life’s harsh realities while striving to create music that inspires and uplifts.

As Forrest works on his upcoming album, "Voivod Revisited," featuring re-recordings of VOIVOD classics, the band’s legacy continues to evolve. With a new original track and contributions from current VOIVOD guitarist Daniel "Chewy" Mongrain, the future looks promising. The cosmic multiverse of VOIVOD expands, proving that even in tumultuous times, the metal spirit endures.