Artist: ANCIENT BARDS
Album: SOULESS CHILD (CD)

Release date: 2011
Media type: CD

2009, the Italian band ANCIENT BARDS surprised the Metal scene with their debut album "The Alliance Of The Kings" - the fans and critics soon drew comparisons with Rhapsody respectively Rhapsody Of Fire. But the ambitious Italians were more than just soundalikes of the aforementioned outfits, and the extremely positive reviews the album got were yet another proof of that. Maybe the sextet's style is polarising, but still: the boys stick to their musical visions and preferences. Their kind of symphonic / epic Metal is sophisticated and classy - you'll easily hear that ANCIENT BARDS enjoy what they do and are committed to it. "Soulless Child" is the long awaited second album, once again mastering the fine line between kitsch and art with grace. "Soulless Child” is the consequent innovative advancement following their first output - and will fascinate all those who love an epic and symphonic Power Metal opus.

"Soulless Child” once again features the heroes of the first part who now continue their trip. Overall, the new opus leaves an even more epic and symphonic impression than its predecessor. All those live shows have forged the band into an entity, resulting in an intense song writing and a tighter performance. Hefty guitar barrages and classic, epic keyboard parts grant an extraordinary listening experience. Mighty choirs top off the whole thing, as can be heard on "Valiant Ride". Double bass attacks and incredibly fast riffs, supported by sophisticated, opulent keyboards are the trademarks of "Broken Illusion". The high, clear voice of Sara Sqadrani adds an extra facet to this harmonious sound collage, her vocals being a perfect fit for the band's style. Rhapsody Of Fire, in spite of their significant influence, have lost themselves a bit in too much intricate playfulness… ANCIENT BARDS prefer to focus on racy riffs and high speed to keep their route straight: "Through My Veins" is an impressive proof of that, and Sara Squadrani's voice volume and vocal clout has remarkably increased - which she demonstrates especially on this Speed smasher which is spiced with some Prog elements. "Hope Dies Last" is an almost 15 minutes long masterpiece of excitement and variety - a fireworks, and at the same time a dejа vu, regarding Epic Metal. "Soulless Child" is an intoxicating mix of intense choirs, hefty guitars, and ultra catchy melodies. No wonder a renowned graphic artist like Felipe Machado Franco (Rhapsody, Blind Guardian.

TRACKLIST:

01. Struggle For Life 1:53
02. To The Master Of Darkness 7:33
03. Gates Of Noland 5:13
04. Broken Illusion 5:11
05. All That Is True 9:55
06. Valiant Ride 4:13
07. Dinanzi Al Flagello 1:29
08. Soulless Child 9:15
09. Through My Veins 7:19
10. Hope Dies Last 14:31
Total Playing Time 66:32

LINE-UP:

Federico Gatti - drums
Fabio Balducci - guitar
Sara Squadrani - vocals
Martino Garattoni - bass
Claudio Pietronik - guitar
Daniele Mazza - keyboards