Ancient is a band that has etched its name in the annals of black metal since its formation in the early '90s. Initiated in Norway by the founding member Aphazel, the band quickly established its standing with their unorthodox melodic approach within a genre known for its extremity. Ancient’s first full-length album, "Svartalvheim," released in 1994, served as a blueprint for their mystical and atmospheric style blending both harsh and acoustic elements—a stark contrast to the raw sounds prevalent in early Norwegian black metal. The dark thematic content, signature melodic riffs, and intricate songwriting established them as a significant act in the underground metal scene.

Over the years, Ancient has experimented and evolved, moving through various line-up changes, with Aphazel being the consistent driving force. Their musical journey is marked by notable works such as "The Cainian Chronicle" (1996) and "Mad Grandiose Bloodfiends" (1997), which delve into vampiric and occult themes set against a backdrop of sophisticated musicianship. With "Proxima Centauri" (2001) and "Night Visit" (2004), Ancient demonstrated a blend of aggression and dark melodies, further solidifying their place in the genre. After a period of silence, the band made a bold return with "Back to the Land of the Dead" (2016), showcasing the enduring nature of their craft. Despite shifts in their sound and membership, the essence of Ancient's music remains true to its roots—captivating, enigmatic, and ever-unfolding like the "Eerily Howling Winds" that encapsulate their enduring presence in the metal firmament.