Ex Deo Releases Video for New Track, “the Philosopher King,” Featuring Fleshgod Apocalypse Keyboardist

Ex Deo have released a new single, “The Philosopher King,” featuring Fleshgod Apocalypse keyboardist  Francesco Ferrini. The song tells the tale of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher. You may know him as “The guy Richard Harris played in Gladiator.”

Says frontman Maurizio Iacono of the track:

“The song is based on the Emperor Marcus Aurelius. It’s a song that strikes a chord with me personally, exploring my life experiences and tribulations. I find myself very close to this man’s philosophical ideals – some I have struggled to understand, some I have adopted. He is the author of the famous book “Meditations” (now you know the influence behind the recent KATAKLYSM album). Stoicism roots come from the hellenistic ideology based in Athens and quickly made its way to Rome. It is something I have been applying more and more to my life in recent years – self-control, discipline and looking at life in a more constructive and appreciative way. Marcus Aurelius, while commanding the world’s largest army and the most advanced society in ancient times, was perceived as one of the most regarded and prosperous emperors not only economically, but also in military and social triumphs. This is an homage to one of Rome’s greatest, The Philosopher King!”

Adds Ferrini:

“When Maurizio suggested to join forces on a brand new EX DEO release, he had me bought in straight away! This song was incredibly inspiring to work on, being such a powerful combination of drama and epicness. I’m sure everyone will love it as much as we do.”

You can check out the track via the below music video.