Laeknishendr cover

Laeknishendr

Falkenbach · 1995

39 min · 6 tracks · black metal

A haunting blend of atmospheric black metal and folk melodies, steeped in Norse mythology and raw emotion.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Laeknishendr — The title track features intricate acoustic guitar work paired with powerful vocals, embodying the album's thematic focus on healing and nature.
  • →
    Skirnir — This opener sets a dramatic tone with its blend of melodic riffs and atmospheric elements, showcasing the band's ability to fuse aggression with beauty.
  • →
    Infernum — With its dark melodies and poignant lyrics reflecting inner turmoil, this track captures the essence of Falkenbach's lyrical exploration of mythological themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends atmospheric black metal with folk influences, establishing a distinct sound within the viking metal genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a lengthy track that combines atmospheric guitar riffs with layered vocals, setting a haunting tone.
  • Each song features shifts between melodic folk elements and aggressive black metal sections, creating dynamic contrasts.
  • The use of traditional instruments alongside electric guitars adds depth to the sound, enhancing its thematic ties to Norse mythology.
  • Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental passages that allow for immersive exploration of mood rather than strict song structures.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Skirnir 4:27
  • 2 Laeknishendr 7:27
  • 3 Blond 10:58
  • 4 Wuotan Imposuerunt 6:57
  • 5 Infernum 6:39
  • 6 Asaland 3:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata