Dargaard is a neoclassical darkwave band from Mistelbach, Austria. Typically in dark and somber moods, the music of Dargaard presents medieval and folk-like melodies, often orchestrated through the use of various instrument patches from keyboards. The group was founded in 1997 by Tharen (Abigor, Amestigon, ex-Heidenreich, Dominion III, Graumahd) as an opportunity to step away from his usual genre (black metal) and experiment with a different approach to express attitudes and feelings. With Elisabeth Toriser (ex-Abigor, ex-Antichrisis, Dominion III, Soulhunt, Graumahd), who took over the vocal responsibilties in 1998, Dargaard was able to successfully complete the recording of their debut .