Anciients Members, Gear & Sound

Anciients is a progressive metal band hailing from Vancouver, Canada, known for their intricate compositions and heavy, yet melodic soundscapes. The group originally formed with Kenny Cook (vocals, guitar), Chris Dyck (guitar), Aaron “Boon” Gustafson (bass), and Mike Hannay (drums). Their music masterfully blends elements of progressive metal, sludge metal, and stoner metal, drawing inspiration from pioneers like Mastodon and Opeth. Anciients' compositions are characterized by dynamic shifts and complex arrangements, offering a compelling mix of aggression and melody.

To emulate Anciients' sound, focus on achieving a blend of heavy, saturated guitar tones coupled with expansive melodic layers. Their music thrives on thick, overdriven riffs often colored with analog delay and modulation effects to enhance depth and texture. The guitar work alternates between aggressive chugging and intricate, melodic lead lines, requiring a balance of high-gain amps and precise articulation. The rhythm section complements this with punchy bass lines that lock in tightly with powerful, dynamic drumming, creating a foundation that's both robust and fluid. Emphasizing complex time signatures and seamless transitions will help capture the progressive essence of Anciients' music, allowing for a rich, immersive sonic experience that is both heavy-hitting and intricately detailed.