Mein rasend Herz cover

Mein rasend Herz

In Extremo · 2005

52 min · 13 tracks · folk music

A fusion of medieval melodies and industrial metal creates an exhilarating soundscape that invites listeners into a vibrant, historical realm.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Raue See Start here — Opening with powerful instrumentals, this track encapsulates the album's dynamic blend of traditional folk instrumentation and modern metal energy.
  • →
    Macht und Dummheit — This song features provocative lyrics that critique societal issues while maintaining an infectious rhythm, highlighting In Extremo's ability to combine message and melody.
  • →
    Rasend Herz — The title track showcases a dramatic narrative structure and layered vocals, representing the core themes of passion and urgency found throughout the album.

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 medieval melodies with metal effectively, though its pacing and structure vary considerably.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong, driving rhythm in 'Raue See' that sets a high-energy tone for the first half.
  • Several tracks feature traditional instruments like bagpipes and hurdy-gurdy, interwoven with electric guitar riffs.
  • The final three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier intensity.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

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
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • steady mid-tempo adventure vibes
  • epic soundscapes for journeys
  • immersive storytelling through melodies
  • sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Ambitious integration of styles marks a significant artistic high point for the band.
Career context
By the time 'Mein rasend Herz' was released in January 2005, In Extremo had established themselves as key figures in the folk metal scene following their breakthrough album 'Verehrt und Angespuckt' in 2003. This album marked a continuation of their unique blend of traditional folk elements with heavy metal, solidifying their reputation for energetic live performances and innovative arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors
Schandmaul· Korpiklaani· Eluveitie

Tracklist

  • 1 Raue See Start here 4:29
  • 2 Horizont 3:38
  • 3 Wessebronner Gebet 4:25
  • 4 Nur ihr allein 3:54
  • 5 Fontaine la jolie 4:37
  • 6 Macht und Dummheit 4:13
  • 7 Tannhuser 3:09
  • 8 Liam 3:48
  • 9 Rasend Herz 4:05
  • 10 Singapur 3:53
  • 11 Poc Vecem 4:36
  • 12 Spielmann 3:31
  • 13 Liam (German version) 3:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata