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 colorful, powerful, lively, monumental celebration of orchestral epic metal. Grandiose melodic arcs, excellent arrangements and the technically top-class instrumentation arecrowned 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).