Does anyone know of bands, groups or people that make "ancient"-sounding music, ie with drums and other non-modern instruments (instruments that doesn't *sound* modern, but could be)? What I am looking for is mostly battle music and music almost like in Icewind Dale and those other games.

PS. No Hans Zimmer, since I already have his stuff.

The problem is that most of these bands play live music only and don't release CD's. Most people outside of Ireland don't really know what Irish music sounds like as they hear commercial songs by the Dubliners, Wolftones and other crap. The real bands play authentic music in the pubs and small venues.

I believe that Blackmore's Rainbow is plays traditional style music and uses traditional instruments, but I could recommend rock bands that play 'ancient' songs, but use a mixture between organic and modern instruments. For example the song 'Per Tyrssons Döttrar i Vänge' gets a remake by Falconer and sounds great.

Don't buy music made by Blackmore's Night. It's awfully cheesy.

There are a few german bands who play medieval music or mix it with modern sounds. Try Saltatio Mortis, Corvus Corax, Poeta Magica or Subway to Sally.

Also, the norwegian band Ulver made folk album, called Kveldsanger. And Finntroll recorded an similar album, Visor um Slutet, I believe.

Isn't Richie Blacmore more popular in Germany than anywhere else :D I have not heard his music, but I will take your word for it.

In-Extremo's early stuff is also full of folky goodness :D

Enya and Clannad may have some songs that fit your cathegory. They're Irish. There are some Chinese bands that plays "ancient" musical instruments but they sound distinctively Chinese. And sorry, I don't read Chinese very well so I can't help much with their band name. On the otherhand, I've seen a lot of war movies that uses classical music for their scenes. Perhaps you might find some of those Beethovens and company that might fit you search.

@Cu: Well, most Germans have no musical taste to speak of (The Scorpions, anyone?), so that's not really surprising.

In Extremo is a crappy band, IMO. No feeling for music, just hammering away on their instruments.