Story Time
Find out more about the my songs with lyrics and the tale of their origins, creation, and background in this series of blogs.
-
Schim Uit Ver Verleden: A Mystical Song About Samhain
“Schim Uit Ver Verleden” is a Dutch song by Bart the Bard about a mysterious spirit that appears during Samhain. An impromptu music video was recorded on the island of Bogø, Denmark, capturing the mystical essence of the song. Read more
-
Exploring Bjarkamál: A Journey Through Nordic Lore
Bjarkamál is a Nordic poem that was the source of inspiration for Bart the Bard to write a song on the ancient kantele instrument. Discover the story of Bodvar Bjarki in this soulful rendition of this 1000 year old poem! Read more
-
Dragon of the Vale; where Game Development meets Song Writing
This month, the fantasy song “Dragon of the Vale” was released for the game “Dragon’s Vale”. The collaborative project involved several artists and reflects themes of survival, migration, and war intertwined with dragon lore. Despite unexpected setbacks, the song’s essence remains intact, celebrating creativity and collaboration. Read more
-
Naglfar: Loki’s Revenge in an Epic Themesong
This month, “Naglfar,” a Dutch Viking-themed song inspired by Edda poems, was released as a theme for the Drakkar escape boat. The track narrates Loki’s wrath and the looming Ragnarök. Collaboratively created with composer Karl Edh, it enhances the escape room experience. Read more
-
Discover ‘The Valkyrie’: A Viking Tale in Song
This month, the original Dutch Viking sailing song “Varen in het Donker” was released, telling the story of seafarers and their loved ones. Inspired by historical events, the song evolved over a year, culminating in a professional music video. The artist aims to perform at various medieval festivals, with Elfia showing interest in his act. Read more
-
Hoe “Varen in het Donker” Mijn Droom Vervulde
This month, the original Dutch Viking sailing song “Varen in het Donker” was released, telling the story of seafarers and their loved ones. Inspired by historical events, the song evolved over a year, culminating in a professional music video. The artist aims to perform at various medieval festivals, with Elfia showing interest in his act. Read more
-
Exploring Gealdýr’s Impact: Bart Zeal’s Dutch Adaptation of Ragnarök
This month, a Dutch cover of Gealdýr’s song “Ragnarök” was released. The song explores Norse mythology’s apocalyptic themes. The adaptation process was rewarding, with positive feedback from Gealdýr, who appreciated the rendition and encouraged further creations in Dutch, celebrating artistic connections. Read more
-
De Menhir: A Dreamy Viking Love Song
“De Menhir” is a dreamy song about two Pagan lovers enjoying a night beneath the stars, content to live in the moment. Written for “Boys Won’t Be Boys,” it offers a softer Viking perspective. Sanne Carolyn’s vocals enhance its mystical vibe, creating the perfect setting for nightly adventures. Read more
-
I Saw Her There: A Romantic Musical Journey through Wageningen
The song “I Saw Her There” celebrates love at first sight and the dream of a future together, inspired by the small town of Wageningen. It reflects on personal experiences within nature, romance, and the desire for a shared life. The lyrics evoke a heartfelt connection, illustrating the beauty of love in the context of… Read more
-
Book of Zeal; Exploring Viking and Dutch Themes in Volume 4
The song “The Appletree” celebrates Roel Heij’s life journey through restlessness to peace. A special video with sign language interpretation was commissioned by his daughter, allowing her to connect with her father’s song as her hearing fades. The song emphasizes exploration and embracing new experiences. Read more
-
Experience ‘The Appletree’: A Special Tribute with Sign Language
The song “The Appletree” celebrates Roel Heij’s life journey through restlessness to peace. A special video with sign language interpretation was commissioned by his daughter, allowing her to connect with her father’s song as her hearing fades. The song emphasizes exploration and embracing new experiences. Read more
-
Give It Time: Overcoming Creative Struggles
“Give It Time” blends Arpow’s energetic house and techno with Bart’s folky voice, reflecting on overcoming creative hardships. The duo emphasizes patience in the creative process, encouraging artists to enjoy life and keep trying. Read more
-
De Bokkenrijders: Halloween Myth and Music from The Netherlands
The song “De Bokkenrijders,” released by Bart Zeal and Voddemoêr, draws from legends of ruthless 18th-century bandits in The Netherlands. Hugo van den Loonsche Duynen, their dreaded leader, committed heinous acts and faced eternal torment. The collaboration revitalizes Dutch folk music, perfect for Halloween with its lively instrumentation and haunting themes. Read more
-
Inspiration from Arthur Morgan: Always in the Saddle
“Always in the Saddle,” released September 20th 2024, draws inspiration from Arthur Morgan of “Red Dead Redemption 2.” The challenging recording featured female vocalists indigo: and violinist Marlieske Doorn, whose contributions enhanced the song. This marks Bart Zeal’s second Western track, encouraging listeners to enjoy it. Read more
-
Rebelsong ‘Woe on the Wind’ – Empowering Protest Track | Behind the Music
Discover the story behind the song “Woe on the Wind”, carrying a rebellious message against political promises. The empowering song uses reinforcing tunes to convey a critical but uplifting message. The cover art depicts a powerful visual narrative. Read more
-
ODIN – Dutch Viking Song Release | Behind the Music
The song “ODIN!” was released on July 20th after months of work. The track features primal elements with guitar, vocals, didgeridoo, percussion, bones clicking, female backing vocals, and violin. The artist expresses gratitude for the collaborative process, emphasizing the unifying power of music. Find the song on Spotify. Read more
-
Alban Hefin: Druidic Perspective on the Summer Solstice in Music
The track “Alban Hefin” was released in June, meaning “Summer Solstice” in Druidism. The song captures the celebrations and rituals observed during this significant day. The songwriters sang in English, Turkish, and Dutch, conveying the gathering of people, the power of herbs, and the cycle of seasons. The lyrics provide rich cultural and linguistic diversity. Read more
-
Bart the Bard’s ‘Goodnight to the Moon’: Bedtime Story Music
The song “Goodnight to the Moon” was made in a gentle, poetic style. It’s meant for bedtime listening, invoking imagination and childlike wonder. Read more
-
Story Time – Rumble
The track “Rumble” was released on April 20th, featuring collaboration with Joran Elane and Evelien. The song’s melody was inspired by a giant troll descending from the mountains to Oslo. The music video reflects an “Efteling” vibe. Read more
-
Story Time – Full Sturgeon Moon
“Full Sturgeon Moon” was inspired by an old man’s warning about its effects. The song’s lyrics and sound capture the mystique of the faerie realm and lost pagan traditions. Read more
Bart the Bard 