Dark Forces have just conquered the Land of Aardia. An army of Orcs is marching towards a fortress that sits atop an ancient hall. Within the walls of this structure lies a knowledge buried by an extinct civilisation. In the wrong hands this could lead to the destruction of the world. A small army of Elves have barricaded themselves in the fortress where they await their destiny...

The tracks on Conquest of the Ancient Halls are influenced by the middle ages, dark fantasy, horror films and classical orchestral music. There are eight tracks here representing just under 45 minutes of music.

Personal favourites for me include the beautiful 'The Prophecy', which has a central theme that wouldn't be out of place in a big budget Hollywood movie; 'Halls of Insanity' the first half of which reminded me of Alan Silvestri's score for Predator; and 'Plains of Sorrow' which has an incredible central theme that is packed full of emotion.

Aardia have done a remarkable job of using old and familiar instrument samples (which you'll have heard numerous times before) and presenting them in a new light. As I always say with these releases: it's just a shame that orchestras are so expensive to hire, as this album would sound incredible performed by a choir and orchestra.

8

Darren Rea