French black metal duo HARDIESSE are stepping onto the scene with their debut mini-album, "Tristesse Vespérale", which combines medieval influences with a fierce and intense black metal approach. Set for release through Antiq, the six-track offering stands out not only for its compact format but also for placing the vocabulary of the Middle Ages at the heart of a poetic linguistic exercise.

Formed by Wynter (bass, vocals) and Hyver (guitar, vocals), HARDIESSE aim to merge a medieval atmosphere with virulent and powerful black metal. Wynter, known for Wÿntër Ärvn, Woest and his former involvement with AORLHAC, and Hyver, who has been involved with projects including GRYLLE, VÉHÉMENCE, HANTERNOZ, HYVER, TOUR D'IVOIRE and PAYDRETZ, form the band's two-piece core.

The lyrical world of "Tristesse Vespérale" establishes HARDIESSE's medieval identity directly through language. The wordplay drawn from the vocabulary of the era creates a poetic stream of thought that follows the direction indicated by each song's title. The approach recalls a Cadavre Exquis, with one word leading into another and medieval-themed terms arranged in succession. The result is a minimalist lyrical framework aimed at a raw and condensed form of expression.

Musically, HARDIESSE operate in the realm of fierce black metal with epic touches reminiscent of bands such as Passéisme, WINDIR and FORTERESSE. Sven V. joined the duo during the six-track recording process on rhythm guitars and drums, and also handled the mixing.

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The first track unveiled alongside the album announcement is 'Beffroi'. The song is now available through Antiq's official YouTube channel and Bandcamp page.

"Tristesse Vespérale" will be released internationally through Antiq on September 30, 2026. The mini-album's tracklist is as follows:

  1. 'Audace'

  2. 'Beffroi'

  3. 'Oubliette'

  4. 'Rempartes'

  5. 'Soupirs'

  6. 'Sentinelle'

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