| Michael Locher | |
|---|---|
Vorph on Hunter Fest 2007 |
|
| Background information | |
| Also known as | Vorphalack, Vorph |
| Origin | Sion, Switzerland |
| Genres | Industrial metal Black metal |
| Occupations | Musician |
| Instruments | Guitar, vocals |
| Years active | 1987–present |
| Associated acts | Samael Alastis |
| Notable instruments | |
| ESP Viper (custom) | |
Michael Locher (aka Vorphalack, or simply Vorph) is a Swiss musician who provides vocals and plays guitar for Swiss industrial/black metal band Samael. He co-founded the band in 1987 with his brother Alexandre Locher (also known as Xytras or Xy) on drums.[1] Michael's musical influences include Slayer, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Venom, Bathory, and early Possessed.[2] Michael particularly points to Bathory as a source of inspiration for vocals:[3]
Quorthon from BATHORY for the vocals I think was a big influence. To me, at that time, he was probably the guy who pushed the boundaries the furthest in terms of that style of music.—Michael Locher aka Vorph
His guitar is a customized ESP Viper with Ernie Ball guitar strings, Line 6 pod, Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier.[4]