Dread Pirate (C. Adv.) might be another decent option for the character.
Personally I'd just go something like Bard 2/Crusader 5, and not trade out inspire courage, since inspire awe isn't really all that good even if you're fear-focused. Standard action strike + move action demoralize to cowering (using fearsome armor) sounds like the way to go to me.
Does your party have anyone who relies on enemies failing their saving throws? Because that would impact my decision to go with doomspeak vs. imperious command.