Here's a well rounded defender who can deal out some damage.
bard 6/rdd 8/defender 6 pre-epic
stats: dwarf str 14 +8 rdd +5 from lvls +3 great feat dex 14 con 16 +2 rdd +3 from lvls wis 8 int 14 +2 rdd cha 12 +2 rdd + 2 from lvls
feats pre-epic: dodge, toughness, and whatever else. I personally went for, dodge, toughness, improved critical greatsword, curse song, extend spell, knockdown, improved knockdown. Or go for the whole dev critical line.
epic feats: epic: defender 14/bard 16/rdd 10
damage reduction 1, damage reduction 2, great strength x3, 2 feats left over for whatever. I chose epic prowess, and sonic resistance 1. Optionally, drop the great strength feats for energy resistance stuff as well.
defender 14: damage reduction 3.
Alternatively, as a more of a support role you can take bard lvl to 20 for a little loss in damage reduction. Make sure to take the bard lvl 20 on an epic feat lvl to gain lasting inspiration.
Dirge spell has some weird DC calculations, making it extremely high, as well as useful for the bard as well. _________________ I may not be able to get an erection, but at least I have enough balls not to hack.