Penumbra, a French gothic and symphonic metal band from Paris, was formed in 1996 by Jarlaath and Néo (later joined by Dorian). The founders shared a vision of creating metal music with strong classical influences and, after briefly performing under the name Imperatoria, established Penumbra later that year. The band released their first self-produced demo, Falling into My Soul (1997), and soon toured with Misanthrope. Their debut album, Emanate, was released in 1999, followed by extensive live performances across France and Europe. In 2002, Penumbra signed with Season of Mist and released The Last Bewitchment, followed by Seclusion (2003), which featured guest musician Loïc Taillebrest on bagpipes and flute. The band disbanded around 2010 but reformed in 2013 and released Era 4.0 in 2015.
