BIOGRAPHY

is an epic metal band from Ankara, Türkiye, founded in 2024 by guitarist and principal songwriter Ekrem Kani. Combining heavy riffs, twin guitar melodies, orchestral arrangements, and a dark medieval atmosphere, the band builds its music around an original fantasy world. Kani’s musical background stretches back to 1994, spanning songwriting, recording, and live performances with several projects.

Following the release of the No Mercy EP in 2026, Dragonborn signed with Italian label Rockshots Records. The band is currently recording its debut full-length album, scheduled for release through Rockshots Records in 2027.

Released on 3 May 2026, No Mercy presents six tracks shaped by war, betrayal, ancient oaths, and the clash of fire and ice. The EP features guest contributions from Kevin Talley on drums, Jonny Maudling on keyboards and orchestral arrangements, and Emanuele Rastelli on bass. Ekrem Kani and Cihan Engin share lead guitar duties, developing the harmonies and melodic passages that form a central part of the band’s sound.

The EP was produced by Ekrem Kani and Erkan Tatoğlu, with recording, mixing, and mastering credited to Tatoğlu at Midas'ın Kulaklığı Studio in Ankara. Its production brings together the weight of the guitars and rhythm section with the detail and atmosphere of the orchestral arrangements.

At the heart of Dragonborn’s work is a mythology centred on the conflict between fire dragons and ice dragons, the armies under their command, and the choices of those caught in the struggle. Characters, places, and recurring musical themes connect the songs across a developing narrative. This world also forms the basis of a companion book project by Ekrem Kani, extending its stories beyond the recordings.

Dragonborn’s compositions move between aggressive riffs, harmonised guitar leads, galloping bass lines, and expansive orchestral passages. Changes in rhythm, melody, and intensity reflect the events and emotions within the story, giving each song its own character while maintaining a shared musical identity.

On stage, Dragonborn brings this world to life through costumes, theatrical performances, and a dark medieval visual identity. The band’s recordings, live shows, visual works, and literature explore different parts of the same universe, with each release adding new characters, conflicts, and chapters to its unfolding saga.