This December, the industrial heart of Gdańsk will come alive with the evocative, primal sounds of Percival, a band renowned for their rich blend of Slavic folk music, historical motifs, and modern energy. The concert, set to take place at the iconic B90 venue, is poised to be a highlight of the season, drawing fans of both traditional folk music and contemporary gaming culture. With their unique sound, Percivla has earned an impressive reputation, particularly for their contributions to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, a game that has captivated millions worldwide.
The Origins of Percival
Percival was formed in 2005 in Poland by musicians Mikołaj Rybacki and Katarzyna Bromirska, drawing inspiration from ancient Slavic traditions and medieval history. The band takes its name from the legendary figure Percival Schuttenbach, a dwarf character from Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcher saga. This deep connection to medieval fantasy has shaped their identity, blending music, mythology, and historical storytelling into a singular artistic form.
While their music is deeply rooted in Slavic culture, Percival has never been limited by geographical or temporal boundaries. The band incorporates elements from different historical periods and regions, combining ancient folk instruments such as bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, and drums with modern arrangements. Their powerful rhythms and vocal harmonies create an immersive auditory experience that transports listeners to forgotten times, stirring a visceral connection to the past.
The Band’s Work on The Witcher Soundtrack
What truly catapulted Percival into the international spotlight was their significant contribution to the soundtrack of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Widely regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made, The Witcher 3 relied heavily on music to craft its deeply immersive world. Percival, along with composers Marcin Przybyłowicz and Mikołaj Stroiński, was a critical part of the team responsible for creating the game’s iconic, award-winning soundtrack.
Percival’s tracks – many of which are based on traditional Slavic melodies – became some of the most recognizable and beloved in the game. Their music provided the perfect atmosphere for the game’s rugged landscapes, ancient forests, and war-torn villages. Songs like “Lazare” and “Silver for Monsters (Sword of Destiny)” conjure an intense, almost primal mood, grounding the player in the brutal and mystical world of The Witcher. Their music has been praised for its ability to evoke emotion, whether the tone is one of danger, triumph, or melancholy.
The collaboration between Percival and the game developers was a natural fit. The band’s sound was uniquely suited to The Witcher’s world of medieval fantasy, where folklore and myth intertwine with brutal, real-world history. The use of authentic folk instruments and vocal techniques added an authenticity to the game’s Eastern European-inspired setting, making the music feel like an integral part of the game world, not just background noise.
The Upcoming Concert in B90, Gdańsk
The B90 concert space is one of the most interesting venues in Poland, known for its industrial atmosphere and great acoustics. A former shipyard located in the port of Gdańsk, B90 is now a premier destination for concerts, especially those that aim to capture something raw and powerful. The venue’s rough walls will provide the perfect backdrop for Percival’s intense, rhythm-driven performances.
Fans can expect a dynamic and immersive show, where Percival’s mastery of ancient instruments and harmonies will come to life on stage. Their live performances are known for their captivating energy, often combining visual elements like historical costumes and choreography, creating an experience that feels both modern and ancient at the same time. With Gdańsk’s rich history as a backdrop, this December concert promises to be a spectacular journey through both time and sound.
Percival Beyond The Witcher
Though they are best known internationally for their work on The Witcher 3, Percival’s discography is vast and varied. They’ve released several albums, including “Slava! Pieśni Słowian Wschodnich” (Glory! Songs of the Eastern Slavs) and “Dzikie Pola“, which explore traditional Slavic music in innovative ways. They have also performed with other renowned bands and orchestras, further cementing their reputation as one of Poland’s most versatile musical exports.
In addition to their traditional folk music, Percival also has a metal project known as Percival Schuttenbach, where they merge folk music with heavier, more aggressive rock elements. This versatility allows them to reach a wide range of audiences, from metalheads to folk enthusiasts, all united by a love for powerful, emotive music.
Don’t Miss the Experience
For anyone who appreciates music that evokes deep emotional responses, Percival’s concert at B90 in Gdańsk is not to be missed. Whether you’re a fan of The Witcher series, or just intrigued by the fusion of ancient folk traditions with modern sounds, this performance will be a unique experience – a powerful reminder of music’s ability to transcend time and place.
Mark your calendars for December and prepare to be transported to a world where history, myth, and music collide in the industrial heart of Gdańsk
