An enthralling lyric video narrating the tale of Aulë (also known as Mahal), a Valar compelled by his instincts to create the first seven fathers of the dwarves, even before their destined era.
Filmed by Mick Alexandrakis at Black Screen – Graphic Arts.
The video was edited and produced by Iraklis Choraitis.
Herc, the musical project led by composer Iraklis Choraitis, has just released their second full-length album, “Of Light and Darkness“, for digital distribution. Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterwork, “The Silmarillion“, OLAD promises to take listeners on an extraordinary musical journey through the realms of Middle-Earth and the creation of Arda.
Herc’s musical endeavor now includes the talented guitarist Panayotis Mavrakis (Cosmic Plunge, Days of Fervor) as a permanent member, adding depth and skill to the band’s dynamic sound. Together, they have crafted an album that showcases their artistic growth and shared vision.
“OLAD” weaves together Herc’s signature metal sound, reminiscent of Blind Guardian, Insomnium, Wintersun, Empyrium, and Bathory, with the enchanting melodies of rock bands like Styx and Blackmore’s Night. The album’s concept draws from the first 12 chapters of Tolkien’s “The Silmarillion”, creating a captivating narrative that fans of both the metal genre and fantasy literature will appreciate.
Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Iraklis Choraitis at Perilous Home Studio. In addition, mixing support has been provided by Manolis Zafirakis. Artwork by Iraklis Choraitis.
Lead single “Melian“, featuring the exceptional vocal talents of Arno Menses (Subsignal, ex-Sieges Even), was released on April 15th, 2023, offering a glimpse into the album’s grandeur.
The track beautifully captures the essence of Herc’s musical prowess, combined with Athena Koumantarou’s elegant Classic & Celtic Harp accompaniment.
In addition to Iraklis’ multi-instrumental talents and Panayotis’ guitar work,
“Of Light and Darkness” features Attila Fay (ex-Mein Kopf ist ein Brutaler Ort) on a couple of guitar solos, and choirs/backing vocals by Iraklis’ wife and daughters.
Clocking in at approximately 2 hours, “Of Light and Darkness” is a compelling musical Odyssey that takes listeners on an immersive and unforgettable experience.
As a long-time admirer of Tolkien’s works, Herc’s journey began as a project exploring themes from “The Hobbit” and some of his poems. Since then, Herc has evolved into a musical force that resonates with fans worldwide.
The album is digitally distributed for the first time by CdBaby and therefore is available for streaming on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more.
Arno Menses
Lead vocals
Athena Koumantarou
Haprs
Attila Fay
Lead Guitars
Andie Vahou
Main & Backing Voals
Tracklist:
- Behold your music
- Of silver and gold
- Mahal
- Of light and darkness
- Melian ft. Arno Menses (Album Version)
- Onwards to Eldamar
- Spirit of fire
- Seeds of hatred
- As darkness falls
- Beneath the gloomy veil of agony
- Of Gonnhirrim
- Doriath
- A celestial dance
- Melian ft. Arno Menses (Single Version – Bonus track)
- A celestial dance (First draft – Bonus track)
- And the road goes ever on (Non-orchestrated version – Bonus track)
