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