Medieval melodies meet modern metal mayhem. 152–193 BPM.
Bardcore is a fusion genre that combines medieval folk music with heavy metal, characterized by distorted guitars, pounding drums, and harsh vocals. It originated in the early 1990s, with bands like Corvus Corax and In Extremo pioneering the sound. The genre often features traditional instruments like bagpipes and hurdy-gurdy alongside electric guitars and double bass drums.
The defining artists of Bardcore — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Bardcore.
Bardcore is characterized by a blend of heavy metal instrumentation—distorted electric guitars, pounding drums, and aggressive bass—with medieval folk elements like bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, flutes, and acoustic guitars. The rhythm is typically fast and driving, with double bass drum patterns and galloping guitar riffs. Vocals range from clean, melodic singing to harsh growls and screams, often with a theatrical delivery.
The overall sound is epic and energetic, with a strong emphasis on melody and folk-inspired harmonies. The use of traditional instruments adds a unique, archaic flavor, while the metal elements provide power and intensity. The BPM typically ranges from 152 to 193, creating a sense of urgency and excitement.
Bardcore emerged in the early 1990s, primarily in Germany and other parts of Europe, as a fusion of medieval folk music and heavy metal. Bands like Corvus Corax (founded 1989) and In Extremo (formed 1995) were pioneers, blending traditional instruments with distorted guitars and aggressive vocals.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the genre evolved, incorporating elements of folk metal, pagan metal, and symphonic metal. Bands like Subway to Sally and Schandmaul expanded the sound, adding more folk instruments and complex arrangements. The genre gained a dedicated following in the European metal scene.
Culturally, bardcore reflects a fascination with medieval history and fantasy, often drawing on themes of chivalry, mythology, and rebellion. It has been associated with Renaissance fairs, medieval reenactments, and fantasy literature. The genre's theatrical and energetic live performances have made it a staple at metal festivals worldwide.
How Bardcore is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
When producing bardcore, start with a strong rhythmic foundation: use double bass drum patterns at 160-180 BPM, with snare on beats 2 and 4. Add palm-muted guitar chugs and open chord strums for the medieval feel. Incorporate folk instruments like bagpipes or hurdy-gurdy via samples or live recordings—layer them with distorted guitars for a rich texture.
For vocals, blend clean harmonies with harsh screams, using reverb and delay to create a spacious, cathedral-like atmosphere. The mix should be aggressive but clear, with the folk instruments sitting prominently in the mid-range. Use sidechain compression to let the kick drum punch through. Experiment with odd time signatures (e.g., 6/8, 9/8) for a traditional dance feel.
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