EP Review: Chronicler of Ardul – Sword of Virné (Self Released)

Venture into a world of ambition, forbidden magic, and bloodshed in Chronicler of Ardul’s forthcoming EP, ‘Sword of Virné’. This offering of dark fantasy symphonic death metal is set for release on the 16th of August 2024.

A conceptual release that continues to build the world of Ardul. According to project mastermind David Williams, the Sword of Virné is a magical blade that craves death at any cost. Created from forbidden magic, it can’t be controlled or used for any other purpose than its own.

Fantasy and metal, they sure go well together, especially when given a darker feel as Chronicler of Ardul does. Something that builds and builds with opener track, Durmad, The Ambitious. A lavish display of orchestration leads to a powerful showcase of intense heaviness layered with big melodies. The passion behind the storytelling comes through strongly, especially via the pained vocals, creating an interesting contrast.

Something that continues to be notable as The Forge and the title track bring forth varying levels of grandeur and force. The former, a little stranger in places from an instrumental perspective, while also having some really garish vocals. The latter, dark and mournful, while also having substantial weight and power behind it. With these three tracks, Chronicler of Ardul showcases an impressive level of creativity.

It’s not quite over yet though as there is a bonus track called What Ambition Reaps and it’s a wandering piece based completely in melody as it journeys through the compositional motifs and themes of each track. A nice addition to an EP that is far more substantial than first expected. With a high level of imagination and impressive storytelling chops, Chronicler of Ardul is definitely worth keeping an eye on.

Chronicler of Ardul – Sword of Virné Track Listing:

1. Durmad, The Ambitious
2. The Forge
3. Sword of Virné
4. What Ambition Reaps (Bonus Track)

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