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Ancient Bards - The birth of evil VideocliP (zero-budget) Directed by Jacopo Benzi Special thanks to: Luca Pasquinelli, Leo Paci, Filippo Sacchetti, “Frusci“ Ursula, Beppe, Santarcangelo di Romagna (RN) There's just a very thin line between art and kitsch, but there are some innovative bands operating smartly near, but never beyond it. Among those: ANCIENT BARDS, managing that balancing act with ambitious grace. Some say ANCIENT BARDS are somehow like “more sophisticated“ RHAPSODY that wouldn't do the sextet justice. ANCIENT BARDS are definitely versatile enough to deliver their musical visions without merely being copycats. Their debut album “The Alliance Of The Kings“ is an impressive proof of this and will be a surprise for many. Keyboardist Daniele Mazza founded the band in the summer of 2007 - soon, ANCIENT BARDS were able to make quite a name for themselves in the local scene. Just one year later, the boys recorded a 5-track demo titled “Trailer“ (of the Black Crystal Sword Saga) and received excellent reviews for the CD which contains a mixture of Nordic sagas and Japanese stories taken from the Final Fantasy series as its underlying themes. Between 2008 and 2009, the band played numerous festivals and shows, among others with Turisas, White Skull, Almah or Domine. These performances honed their style even more, and so they were ready to begin with the recordings of their first album in the summer of 2009 (featuring, among others, the Epic Choir Toto Corde and several guest musicians). “The Alliance Of The Kings“ will make those very happy who love epic-melodic, classic arrangements, and appreciate a sound hovering between Nightwish, Rhapsody, Epica, and Delain. ANCIENT BARDS easily tackle that task with their versatile mix of Power Metal elements and old-school classic style, their songs brimming with zest and classy guitars. Among all these elements, the high and clear voice of Sara Squadrani is a wonderful match, a perfect fit for the epic keyboard parts, which are typical of the band's delivery. “Four Magic Elements“ is a powerful, rhythmical song garnered with epic passages, “Only The Brave“ combines traditional fast Metal with sumptuous melody lines. The beginning of “Nightfall In The Icy Forest“ features a lot of classical elements à la Manowar, and is a bridge to seven minutes long “Lode Al Padre“ ANCIENT BARDS really strut their stuff on that one! “The Alliance Of The Kings“ is laden with epic choirs, peppy guitar parts and ultra-catchy melodies. The Black Crystal Sword Saga BEGINS!!! Discography: “The Alliance Of The Kings“ in stores on March 12th 2010 Line-up: Sara Squadrani - vocals Daniele Mazza - keyboards Martino Garattoni - bass Claudio Pietronik - guitar Fabio Balducci - guitar Alessandro Carichini - drums
