A colourful, powerful, lively, monumental celebration of orchestral Epic Metal !!!
For Fans of Rhapsody, Nightwish, Epica, Ayreon, Threshold, Shadow Gallery
With their fifth and extraordinary album "Artifex", the Italian band ANCIENT BARDS continues to focus on technically mature class in 2025. Six years have passed since their fourth album "Origine". Years in which a brilliant masterpiece has matured. "Artifex" is a colourful, powerful, lively, monumental celebration of orchestral epic metal. Grandiose melodic arcs, excellent arrangements and the technically top-class instrumentation are crowned by elaborate choral voices and a mystical storyline. The catchy melodies, arrangements and storyline of "The Black Crystal Sword Saga" were composed by pianist and producer Daniele Mazza. Lead singer Sara Squadrani is supported by a 42-strong choir. The album is enhanced by the contributions of guest vocalists Francesco Cavalieri (Wind Rose), Mark Jansen (Epica) as well as the violin of Gabriele Boschi (Winterage) and the guitar of Simone Mularoni (DGM).
Disc 1:
01. Luminance and Abyss
02. My Prima Nox
03. The Vessel
04. The Empire of Black Death
05. Unending
06. Ministers of Light
07. Proximity
08. Soulbound Symphony
09. My Blood and Blade
10. Mystic Echoes
11. Under the Shadow
12. Sea of Solitude
13. Artifex
Disc 2:
Instrumental Version