Ancient is a Norwegian melodic black metal formed in 1992. The band has released six full-length albums and is currently signed to Metal Blade Records. Ancient used to have a raw black metal sound, similar to Darkthrone's works. Beginning with The Cainian Chronicle, they moved towards a more Nordic/atmospheric black metal sound, akin to Emperor. After a period of turmoil concerning their line-up, they went on to add gothic-style instruments such as violins, female vocals, and synthesizers to their music.
From: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_(band)
