Episode 6

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Published on:

26th Sep 2024

E06. Heavy Bard Rock

RIF - Episode 06. Heavy Bard Rock

1) Tales from the Tome:

We had almost missed another Fantasy Literature genre in our Episode 2 & 3: …Comic Fantasy!

A subgenre of fantasy literature that combines:

  • elements of the fantastical with humor,
  • often using absurdity, satire, and parody
  • to poke fun at traditional fantasy tropes or real-world issues

Some key novels:

  • Discworld Series, by Terry Pratchett
  • The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas Adams
  • Good Omens, by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
  • The Princess Bride, by William Goldman
  • The Eyre Affair, by Jasper Fforde
  • The Myth Adventures Series, by Robert Asprin
  • The Last Unicorn, by Peter S. Beagle

Marie-Noor: top 5 fantasy books

  1. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
  2. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
  3. Piranesi by Susanna Clarke
  4. Scythe by Neal Shusterman
  5. Silber by Kerstin Gier


Laurent: top 5 fantasy books

  1. A Song of Ice and Fire (GOT), by George R. R. Martin
  2. The Wheel of Time series (14!), by Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson
  3. Lord of The Rings, by J.R.R. Tolkien
  4. The Priory of the Orange Tree, by Samantha Shannon
  5. The Broken Earth trilogy, N.K. Jemisin
  6. The Dark Tower series (8), by Stephen King


2) Bard’s Ballad:


Many music artists have been heavily inspired by fantasy literature, weaving elements of myth, magic, and epic storytelling into their work. These artists often draw on themes, characters, and settings from fantasy novels and folklore, creating immersive and imaginative soundscapes. Some music genres are particularly conducive to incorporating fantasy elements due to their themes and atmosphere.


Music Genres that excel at incorporating Fantasy elements (historically):

  • Folk Rock/Metal
  • Power Metal
  • Progressive Rock/Metal
  • Symphonic Metal
  • Glam Rock
  • Space Rock


Led Zeppelin

Often incorporated references to fantasy, especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. For example, songs like “Ramble On” (mentions Mordor and Gollum) and “The Battle of Evermore” include explicit references to The Lord of the Rings.


Blind Guardian

This German power metal band is renowned for its deep ties to fantasy literature, particularly the works of Tolkien and other epic fantasy authors. Their albums often tell stories inspired by mythological and literary sources.

Nightfall in Middle-Earth (a concept album based on Tolkien’s The Silmarillion)

“The Bard’s Song” (a tribute to storytelling and fantasy)


Rush

The progressive rock band frequently explored themes of mythology, science fiction, and fantasy. Their lyrics, especially those written by drummer Neil Peart, often deal with philosophical and fantastical elements.

“The Necromancer” (a fantasy narrative in three parts)

“Rivendell” (a serene ballad inspired by The Lord of the Rings)


Jethro Tull

While known for their mix of rock and folk, Jethro Tull’s lyrics often touched on mystical, mythical, and fantastical themes. Ian Anderson’s distinctive flute playing adds to the band's ethereal and medieval feel.

“Songs from the Wood” (inspired by folklore and myth)

“The Minstrel in the Gallery” (features storytelling and bard-like imagery)


Rhapsody of Fire (formerly Rhapsody)

This Italian band is a pioneer of “symphonic power metal,” often featuring elaborate fantasy-inspired concept albums. Their work creates a cinematic, epic atmosphere full of dragons, warriors, and mystical lands.

“The Emerald Sword Saga” (a multi-album fantasy epic involving battles for ancient magical relics)

“Holy Thunderforce” (an energetic anthem of fantasy heroism)


David Bowie

David Bowie explored fantastical themes throughout his career, creating characters and worlds that feel larger than life. His album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars introduced the fantastical character of Ziggy Stardust, a messianic rock star from another planet.

“The Man Who Sold the World” (touches on themes of existential fantasy)

“Starman” (fantasy and sci-fi blend into his glam rock persona)


Iron Maiden

While Iron Maiden often leans toward history and mythology, they also incorporate fantasy literature, especially through songs that tell dark, epic stories.

“The Phantom of the Opera” (inspired by Gaston Leroux’s novel)

“To Tame a Land” (based on Frank Herbert’s Dune)


Genres that excel at incorporating Fantasy Elements today:

  • Symphonic Metal (e.g., Nightwish, Epica)
  • Power Metal (e.g., Blind Guardian, Gloryhammer)
  • Folk Metal (e.g., Elvenking, Wardruna)
  • Atmospheric Black Metal (e.g., Summoning)
  • Prog Metal/Rock (e.g., Ayreon, Dream Theater)


More:

  • Victoria Carbol (artist) TOG, shadow and bone, fourth wing, etc.
  • Kelsey Woods (artist) court of thorns and roses
  • Epic the musical

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About the Podcast

Rolling Into Fantasy
Where Fantasy Finds Its Voice
Welcome to "Rolling into Fantasy," a bi-weekly podcast where a father-daughter duo, both avid Fantasy enthusiasts spanning over more than 30 years of love for Fantasy, delve into the enchanting world of Fantasy. With an inter-generational approach, we explore Fantasy literature, games, pop culture, music, series & movies. Each episode connects different aspects of Fantasy, rolling seamlessly from one topic to another. Join us every fortnight on Thursdays as we discuss the origins of Fantasy, current news, and exciting things to come in the realm of Fantasy. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the genre, "Rolling into Fantasy" has something magical for everyone.

Get notified & don't miss an episode; subscribe to our list: https://tinyurl.com/35eakx6x !

About your hosts

Laurent Bettens

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At the age of 6, I took my first steps into the world of fantasy, specifically science fiction, when Star Wars made its debut on the big screen. From that moment, this universe forever shaped my love for fantasy. The surge of fantasy and adventure movies in the eighties only deepened my passion for the genre. However, my true love for fantasy stories ignited with the discovery of the English Fighting Fantasy gamebook series by Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson, as well as the Lone Wolf series by Joe Dever.

With a strong interest in medieval history and literature, I have always been drawn to that era, which provides a bottomless source of inspiration for all types of fantasy stories and games. Now, several decades later, the fantasy genre has expanded into numerous sub-genres of literature, games, and merchandise, becoming a way of life for many.

I am fortunate to have been able to pass on my love for fantasy literature and games to my daughters and son. Together with my eldest daughter, Marie-Noor, we want to share our passion for fantasy with others and explore new horizons. This led to the idea of launching our co-hosted podcast, "Rolling Into Fantasy," where fantasy finds its voice. This will be an adventure of our own, and needless to say, we are both excited and a bit scared.

Marie-Noor Bettens

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My journey into the world of fantasy began as a child with the Harry Potter series. The adventures of Harry and his friends at Hogwarts captivated my imagination, sparking a deep love for both reading and writing. This early fascination with fantasy was the push I needed to explore other fantasy literature.

As I grew older, my taste in fantasy evolved. I discovered the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas and my father introduced me to Game of Thrones. These stories made it clear I have a preference for the medieval and epic fantasy subgenre.

In high school, I found another outlet for my love of fantasy through role-playing games and Dungeons & Dragons. This hobby quickly became one of my favourites, allowing me to actively participate in creating and exploring fantasy realms. The collaborative storytelling and endless possibilities of DnD have further fueled my passion for fantasy, making it an integral part of my life.