Hexenwind cover

Hexenwind

Dornenreich · 2005

42 min · 5 tracks · black metal

A haunting blend of atmospheric black metal intertwined with folk elements, invoking a mystical and darkly poetic ambiance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Der Hexe flammend’ Blick — This track exemplifies the album's melding of intense black metal with ethereal melodies, showcasing Dornenreich's signature style of dramatic contrasts and emotional depth.
  • →
    Zu Träumen wecke sich, wer kann — The lengthy composition serves as a culmination of the album’s themes, weaving together rich instrumentation and haunting vocals to create an immersive listening experience.
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    Der Hexe nächtlich’ Ritt — With its atmospheric build-up and evocative storytelling, this track highlights Dornenreich's ability to fuse narrative and music seamlessly, drawing listeners into a mystical journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

65 /100
Treeline
Higher than 88% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of black metal and folk elements creates a unique sound that rewards deeper listening.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a lengthy track that gradually builds in intensity, layering atmospheric guitar riffs with haunting vocals.
  • Each song features shifts between aggressive black metal passages and softer, folk-inspired interludes, creating a dynamic contrast.
  • The final track concludes with an extended instrumental section that fades out slowly, leaving a lingering sense of mystery.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting atmosphere for introspection
  • long tracks for deep immersion
  • mystical vibes during twilight hours
  • poetic narratives for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeks instant gratification
  • prefers upbeat and fast-paced

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on November 18, 2005, Hexenwind marked Dornenreich's fourth studio album, following their transformative work in the earlier 2000s. By this point, the band had established a unique sound that fused black metal with acoustic and folk influences, solidifying their reputation within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Agalloch· Alcest· Les Discrets

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Von der Quelle 2:11
  • 2 Der Hexe flammend’ Blick 11:38
  • 3 Der Hexe nächtlich’ Ritt 11:45
  • 4 Aus längst verhalltem Lied 4:10
  • 5 Zu Träumen wecke sich, wer kann 13:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata