The venerable black metal band Ancient originated in 1992
as a solo project for Aphazel, who has remained the one
constant amidst numerous changes over the years both in
lineups and in home countries
(originating in Norway, the band spent some time in the US
and now calls Italy home).
Stylistically, Ancient is first and foremost a black metal
band, enough so that they have been described in the past
as either generic or copyists.
While it is true that much of their work does come across as
traditional, basic black metal, labelling them copycats is
a bit strong.
Moreover, the band has grown immeasurably over the years,
especially when placing their debut Svartalheim, with its
minimalist old-school values, next to their recent
Promixa Centauri, clearly their most adventurous and least
generic effort yet.
Yes, most of their albums do little to expand the genre, but
Ancient is still an accomplished band worthy of attention,
and if nothing else serve as fine representatives of
black metal.
