Heilung "Krigsgaldr" REACTION & ANALYSIS by Vocal Coach/Opera Singer

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

We just released merchandise! Check out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com

[@warrennelson2089]

You come across as a wonderful, beautiful, intelligent, and, yese, Charismatic, lady. Thank you very much for your time and effort. I really enjoy watching you work. God speed. Many blessings.

[@dvinson1029]

Check out the Norupo Video, Liked that A LOT and as I do a lot of anthropology related studies especially on my family's ancestral home in Scandinavia and Germany. Norupo has a lot of specifically celtic imagery, standing stones with the image of the forest god Cernunnos carved on then in the middle of a clearing in dense forest, not only is the song great but the video is beautiful in my humble opinion. Side note also live Kvitravn by Wardruna if you haven't heard it.

[@johneisele4424]

You need to check out xandria if you haven't already

[@davidjohnson5045]

Hey EZ, the scene that comes quickly to mind is when the Orcs descend on Helms Deep

[@b0t155]

Tiefling horns?!? Insta subbed.

[@maanvis81]

The most impressive thing about this concert is that it was their first live concert ever :)

[@biffie186]

And probably you witnessed it as i did. Op Castlefest 😏

[@trollpatrol8453]

It’s not a concert, it’s a ritual! We are not fans, only brothers and sisters! Haha love this band! I’ve seen all the videos now I’m addicted to watch others experience it. I will see them live! Have a great day

[@AusDenBergen]

Wow that's incredibly impressive. Well executed.

[@n..m507]

Not just 'their' first concert either (as obviously Maria has performed live many times previously, and Christopher has been involved with other acts) but this is Kai's first time EVER performing live on stage. And he crushed it, standing shoulder to shoulder offering a counterpoint to that supreme vocal talent that is Maria Franz. =]

[@maanvis81]

@@n..m507 yeah I meant their first concert as Heilung, which has to be incredibly difficult since it involves many non standard instruments, languages and melodies.

[@jscrackwood]

When a band is so metal they don't even need guitars

[@briancollis1809]

right??

[@dzemoski45]

👍🏻

[@ivofilatsch4896]

That's so very true.

[@keithriggle3192]

This is even more darker than metal this is straight from Loki himself

[@perstaunstrup3451]

They’re pure metal; bronze and iron

[@HughCorbyCruick]

You: “ I wonder if she sings” Maria Franz: “ Hold my tibia.”

[@carrietaylor6920]

not sure how bout im dying in this war as if i was in lybia?

[@dreadede]

😂🤣😂

[@michaelcritter7933]

This comment won my internet for today

[@p0nyexpr3ss]

This in an underrated comment. 😂❤

[@mauserwinchester]

Absolutely love Heilung, Maria's voice send shivers down my spine, I think these type of bands are filling a void that is missing in modern disposable music.

[@freizeit.gaming.modellbahn6764]

Absolutely yes.. And i guess, that why some cultural groups like the africans, or arabic, or even the asian and native americans still have music today with very old traditional elements... just we as the western mordern group are no longer "used to" ... however, i really love this nothern shamanic style :)

[@avlinrbdig5715]

@@freizeit.gaming.modellbahn6764 :D :D :D not to nitpick :D ::D :D ..... .. :D but if you want northern shamanic music, you'd better listen so sami music, as the germanic scandinavians technically were more animistic than shamanic.. atleast as far as we know

[@AmericanGirl6128]

Some of US Are really into these Bands...

[@spacewolfvtmedia]

Definitely it more organic in meaning of how our ancestors gathering around the fires at night making music dancing around in the wood giving meaning to there lives and culture and custom today it's electronic machine which don't get me wrong I love it to but this make me feel human again, if that makes sense

[@VerchielxKanda]

"But you only understand the language of the sword" is a very powerful lyric.

[@DerEchteBold]

A very sad one.

[@DeusMachina71]

Too bad when they put down the sword it was the end of their civilization and culture.

[@geewhiz5926]

@@DeusMachina71 they're still around they're called Norway Sweden Germany Switzerland Austria

[@impero101]

@@geewhiz5926 Denmark?

[@johnnyoverpour]

@@impero101 found the dane (jk)

[@k0zl0v]

Roman soldiers in a forest: "Guys, why do I hear boss battle-music?.."

[@Andvare]

Depends on what you'd call Romans, because the Vikings sure did clash with the Eastern Roman Empire. The Western Roman Empire was gone 300 years before the Vikings. This isn't a Viking sound, and is not meant to be. The inspiration is proto-Germanic, from before the Vikings.

[@curtisbolt5841]

The Romans clashed with the Germanic tribes, as explained by Tacitus.

[@MythicFrost]

Byzantine had Varangian guard which were Vikings!

[@v.9964]

@@selflessone3880 well the germanians and the gauls were similar. So I think that's what they could mean.lol

[@danman2316]

​@@selflessone3880 This music sounds way older than Viking-age, it sounds like germanic / proto-germanic.. it could represent 300 BC - 100 AC. About 100 BC the Romans started to fight with the germanic tribes located in modern Germany... According to Roman scripts the germanic "Barbarians" used some kind of strange voices to bring fear among the Romans.... NOW I CAN UNDERSTAND WHY... 15:00

[@argentavis_flight]

The "viking rap" section is what 'galdr' is. A sung incantation used in rituals and also meant to sound like the crowing of a raven.

[@Colphin]

Came to comment this, and adding: Galdr (or galder) is a form of throat singing the vikings used

[@tinnathedogteapotthehuman3967]

Also known as Nordic throat singing

[@Colphin]

@EmperorKleetorisTheCuckolder There are translated texts from Muslim travelers to Hedeby that describes the singing thusly "I have not heard an uglier singing than Shalshaweeq (Schleswig) people. It's a humming coming from their throats that's worse than dog barking." That, combined with the skill being passed down in our culture makes for a pretty convincing argument

[@HumanSkinJacket]

@@Colphin Galdr or Galdur/Galdrar also just means Magic in Icelandic

[@mfu3415]

@@Colphin Oh, but afaik you have to be careful with Ibn Fadlan as a source, as with every other source.

[@francescocinquini6000]

In an interview Maria (the singer) said something like "we don't really want to pass through security checks 'cause we use real human bones", that makes me love them much more

[@kd633]

I’m pretty sure this is more than an “act” that’s why. So metal

[@ManaBunz]

I believe that it's such a beautiful thing to honor someone by making music with a part of them that's left behind. You continue to love and uplift them after they have passed.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

Some people prefer their music "old school", and some prefer old skull.

[@AApyrofreak]

Hymns to the gods, are most divine when vibrating through the bones of thy enemies.

[@xheralt]

This isn't the song for when you are marching off to war, this is the song for when you _learn_ you are going to have to march off to war, and need to prepare.

[@kurtwinchell]

This is an important distinction. This is all about lamenting the fragility of peace, and reluctantly going to war out of necessity, not by desire.

[@yippeeflowers]

lyrically it tells of impending battle, then after the break speaks of it after it's done without specifying who won.

[@HrLBolle]

Do you mean the time when the call-up of all able-bodied men and subjects to military service was announced in the name of the king and the crown by mounted heralds to the free and unfree people (those who serve a lord, not to be confused with those in serfdom) throughout the country?

[@douglasalfseike3867]

​@@HrLBollewhat is king and crown? Be specific!

[@HrLBolle]

@@douglasalfseike3867 refers to the the ones in rule over the country

[@Sh9168]

I love Liz's reaction when she finds out who's singing the echo.

[@noc1891]

idd, had actualy the same reaction lol

[@reneedailey1696]

Same, it's so damned genuine and cute, and it WAS a cool surprise!!

[@julesgro8526]

Here is something interesting for you. Marias costume is closely based on a find in an excavation in Bad Dürrenberg, Germany in 1934. The body burried there is often assumed to have been a female shaman and was well preserved. Now for the whacky part: She had an anomaly in her Atlas vertebrae, which caused her to black out when her head was in a certain position. This is likely why she became a shaman in the first place. Besides her, there were hundreds of animal remains burried, most likely as burrial gifts. The radiocarbon dating was uncalibrated but suggests she was burried around the 6th millenia B.C. This woman was important.

[@amenax21]

Holy shit, I love interesting facts like this one. Thank you!

[@GenericWhiteMan00]

This song is about a people's who want to live in peace and harmony, but if you come to fight, they'll give you a fight.

[@emilwestgaardhenriksen1715]

They true way to live really

[@DJxerxes9000]

I can get behind that.

[@RastaganTheGreen]

So, don't step on snek essentially?

[@tknier88]

No step on snek

[@RastaganTheGreen]

@@tknier88 sick profile pic

[@kelborhal2576]

"What instrument do you play?" The bones.

[@k0zl0v]

- So, I've heard you're in a band. What instrument do you play? - The femur, mostly. - Cool nickname for your guitar! - It's an actual femur.

[@lordalchemist3430]

drum stick or Humerus?

[@garyp2821]

In a previous life, maybe the bones of a child.

[@stephenknecht7189]

Human bones that is

[@ags5696]

"So we've got to play the bones to get out of here." I hope someone gets this reference.

[@KainzMusic]

22:18 When Maria looks at the camera...it's like she's looking right into your eyes

[@taraswertelecki9586]

More like looking into your soul. She's a very intelligent, discerning and intense person. It shows in how she sings and carries herself.

[@MoldyStir-Fry]

I love that the bone tapping is constant throughout the whole song, even under the louder instruments/voices, it's always there.

[@sergios4620]

Who else here gets mesmerized by this woman's facial expressions? She is "adorkable"

[@maanvis81]

I love her nerding out face :)

[@gryphon0468]

They're fantastic haha. Her Misty Mountain reaction on the last note was almost orgasmic.

[@mikejhorn]

I think that comes from childlike wonder!

[@Luemm3l]

I it especially funny going over the thumbnails. I swear she sometimes almost looks like a different person.

[@sergios4620]

It's almost like she has muscles in her face no one else has.😂

[@calebloaiza4826]

People should suggest to react to In Maidjan first. Maria's vocals are impressive, sustained high long notes with no vibrato at all, it really exposes how talented this lady is. The best introduction for a vocal coach to the band I think. Oh do not forget the boys, I love their vocals in the background when they're doing those noises and beautiful armonies and everything. EVERYONE here ties up a great band Actually the whole band is flawless. Thanks Elizabeth, I always enjoy your reactions ❤️😊

[@Nitlda]

Hard to disagree with this, In Maidjan has so many interesting vocal elements from the beginning to the end

[@randiminer8621]

I second this recommendation!

[@yubogolfer4040]

Absolutely agree !

[@rolandbuysse9374]

Agreed, this is a great Heilung song, but there is not a lot happening vocally compared to some of their other songs

[@C64SX]

Hear hear!

[@williamdrake6711]

English translation for those that want it... The household wanes, Vil threw a death wave over those the oar locks wore out for, with the tired mast-top Who brought... Who brought the horde over to the far country? The godly-fish from Firnøy’s streams Swimming in the drift of the land of shining meadows. What am I supposed to do if I want to talk about peace and understanding, but you only understand the language of the sword. What if I want to make you understand that the path you chose leads to downfall, but you only understand the language of the sword. What if I want to tell you to leave me and my beloved ones in peace but you only understand the language of the sword. I let the blade do the talking. So my tongue shall become iron and my words the mighty roar of war Revealing my divine anger´s arrow shall strike. All action for the good of all. I see my reflection in your eyes, but my new age has just begun The sword is soft. In the fire of the furnace, it hungers to be hit and wants to have a hundred sisters in the coldest state of their existence. They may dance the maddest in the morass of the red rain. Beloved brother enemy I sing my sword song for you the lullaby of obliteration so I can wake up with a smile And bliss in my heart And bliss in my heart And bliss in my heart Coexistence, Conflict, combat, devastation, regeneration,transformation. That is the best I can do for you. I see a grey gloom on the horizon that promises a powerful sun to rise to melt away all moons. It will make the old fires of purification. Look like dying embers Look like dying embers Look like dying embers The household wanes, Vil threw a death wave over those. the oar locks wore out for, with the tired mast-top Who brought... Who brought the horde over to the far country? The godly-fish from Firnøy’s streams, swimming in the drift of the land of shining meadows. Who brought... Who brought the horde over to the far country?

[@WildwoodVagabond]

Thank you for sharing this!!

[@williamdrake6711]

@@WildwoodVagabond youre welcome

[@nightwi1dernessbrianjohnso803]

Thank you @William Drake it's very poetic; dramatic, powerful, with a meaningful message. Some of it, I can't tell if it's literal or metaphorical, like about boats, the sun, etc.

[@carrietaylor6920]

YOU!

[@winterland122977]

@@nightwi1dernessbrianjohnso803 Old Norse used to use kennings, which are literary references the audience would be expected to know from other vocally handed down poems and tales. One I can think of right now is they often say something like "Helgi fed the ravens well in the east." Which would mean Helgi went to battle in Russia or Greece, etc. and left many dead before him.

[@shazmodeus2795]

1st time I heard this song I was completely mesmerized. The consistent bass tone with the beat of the percussion was so hypnotic. Been a fan of them ever since.

[@olirikable]

Same. This was the song that totally stole my soul and I became a fan of everything the band performed.

[@LAX5x5]

"What was that bone?" "There are so many bones on stage..." laughed and immediately hit "like".

[@elindquist5725]

The two smaller bones look like the lower leg bones: Tibia and Fibula. The bigger hitting the drum is the Femur.

[@mariacollins3742]

Femur maybe

[@danielambrose5133]

I'd also like to add to the requests for In Maidjan. That's where you really get into the throat singing, and Maria's vocal solo defies description.

[@Rosannasfriend]

I came in here thinking it was that song

[@MonsieurBambi]

Yes yes yes yes! A million times yes!

[@Razomir]

Absolutely!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

On point! Thank you for suggesting this Daniel Ambrose.

[@Angarato86]

@@TheCharismaticVoice yea you'll like it alot more. this song is really not a good intro to this band especially from a vocal standpoint. In maidjan or Othan are way better choices

[@ministellar2224]

I'm mostly just impressed by the fact that Maria spends like 9 minutes clicking those bones together.

[@jessicaturner8825]

Fun fact, those are horse teeth

[@stephenknecht7189]

Human bones

[@Ghorda9]

@@jessicaturner8825 those aren't horse teeth.

[@SJamesGill88]

@@jessicaturner8825 That's a human forearm

[@carrietaylor6920]

and so the truth so spoken by you!

[@timclark5435]

The male vocal in the "Viking Rap" section *is* a throat singing voice - it's a false chord vocalization style that is present in a number of Northern European music and poetic traditions - particularly for historical epic poetry. Sami Joik singing and Russian özläü are surviving examples of throat singing from circumpolar cultures - those Heilung seems to be leaning on something more in the family of Tuvan Kargyraa under-tone singing.

[@mohavie2360]

u would love the Mongolian throat singing as well. Mongolian throat singing has been a tradition for thousands of years and its really beautifully modernized by the band called The Hu.

[@justineglickman]

She's talked a fair amount about throat singing 😊

[@mellanapa]

Thank you so much for recognizing Sapmí-culture! 🖤

[@sonorex]

I love the youtube community

[@aurelmatthews4164]

What I find really impressive about their songs is how incredibly in tempo and on the beat they are, even in a ten minute live performance with like six people involved. The singing/chanting is beautifully enunciated to create it's own tempo. In this song Maria Franz holds down the tempo by tapping in 1/8 and when the other vocalists take over, and she stops tapping, their chanting falls on exactly the same beats on the bar. It still sounds like singing, but it also sounds like their voices have become something of a percussion instrument. It's even more clear on songs like Hamrer Hippyer. Really puts you in a trance.

[@FistyClown]

Seeing Heilung live is a crazy experience. It's like taking part of a mass ritual and the energy created by what's going on on stage and in the crowd is super powerful.

[@Stumpybear7640]

Seeing Heilung live is on my bucket list ❤

[@ridiculousedtollett6120]

"I should have worn my Tiefling horns." Aaaaaaaand I'm subscribed.

[@carrietaylor6920]

i know and they will and trust me right now do too!

[@Dang3rMouSe]

Every time I've heard this song I get the same shivers, like my ancestors whispered in my ear. Lyrics for the "viking rap" lol: What am I supposed to do If I want to talk about peace and understanding But you only understand the language of the sword What if I want to make you understand that the path you chose leads to downfall But you only understand the language of the sword What if I want to tell you to leave me and my beloved ones in peace But you only understand the language of the sword I let the blade do the talking... So my tongue shall become iron And my words the mighty roar of war Revealing my divine anger´s arrow shall strike All action for the good of all I see my reflection in your eyes But my new age has just begun The sword is soft In the fire of the furnace It hungers to be hit And wants to have a hundred sisters In the coldest state of their existence They may dance the maddest In the morass of the red rain Beloved brother enemy I sing my sword song for you The lullaby of obliteration So I can wake up with a smile And bliss in my heart And bliss in my heart And bliss in my heart Coexistence, Conflict, combat Devastation, regeneration, transformation That is the best I can do for you I see a grey gloom on the horizon That promises a powerful sun to rise To melt away all moons It will make the old fires of purification Look like dying embers Look like dying embers Look like dying embers

[@rycolligan]

It's probably an ox horn he's playing. The female singer, Maria Franz, really flexes on "In Maidjen" from this same performance. She embodies poise in a way I've never quite seen before in a singer, it's great. This whole LIFA performance is probably about the best way to spend an hour I've ever encountered. Enjoy it.

[@kunou4527]

Yes, In Maidjan and Othan are my favorites for showing off her voice.

[@spearmintderg]

Definitely wanted to recommend "In Maidjen" myself, really good stuff

[@Caddoan]

THe final song in the set "Hamrer Hippyer" is the first song i heard by them. Song had me HOOKED

[@carrietaylor6920]

i kinda am in a shorter amount of time though than your arrogent stupid mind just relayed enjoyments never again a word spoken by you!

[@flareside259]

The horns are from Watusi cattle. I own a few myself I got from a local meadery.

[@shotgunbettygaming]

Blacksmiths were held in HIGH regard among Scandinavian cultures. A man who could mold metal into a fighting weapon or any other useful tool was considered touched by the Gods. I love how they made the sound of a forge making weapons in the beginning of the chant with their instruments. And for the record, this was their FIRST Live show as a band.

[@carrietaylor6920]

its simple how i speak its God im not joking he knows the geography so too ,...each audience he relates to so well.. And humor my dear will get you a ticket you wanted right well, yes that ticket youve dreamed of the one that goes without baggage or lay over yeah that one yours the ticket going straight to fucking hell! Remember , .... remember that as well?

[@carrietaylor6920]

remember i told you id share with you my soul , i never said you could sell it as well!

[@Michael-o9e8i]

In an interview Chris says he and Kai made the sword sounds with Chris and Maria’s garden tools.

[@DeOzian]

Imagine standing live at this gig and going on full trance. I was there in the crowd. This was at Castlefest in Netherlands quite a few years a go and i remember hearing them do sound check ups and the mics could not even pick up the highest tones that came out of Maria,. Long story short i just stood there and looking at friends saying "we have to see them live..."and it was experience like i have not had ever since. Such good vocals and vibes.

[@snowhartdraws]

In one of their interviews, Maria Franz (the lead female singer) said she heard her partner Kai Uwe Faust (the lead male singer) practicing his throat singing in their back yard and she went outside like "What the hell are you doing?" And they kind of roped her in from there haha. Happy to see you reviewing them! The entire concert is beautiful and fun to watch! Kai also is well known as a tattoo artist for old Norse stick and poke tattoos!

[@bQ5rL3m6D]

the simple fact that you paused this epic music, gave your insight, opinions, viewpoint, perspective BUT THEN rewinded a few seconds to have not missed anything.... ma'am you brought TEARS to my eyes, thank you.

[@carrietaylor6920]

your so fucking welcome dear i plan on doing it again , the tears im speaking of , trust me and this time the tears , not just to you!

[@bQ5rL3m6D]

@@carrietaylor6920

[@Nollis]

I saw Heilung live 2 years back and it was one of the greatest and most mesmerizing live performances I've ever seen. A great second place is held by Wardruna.

[@tylerhatch1895]

Krigsgaldr is about a soldier questioning his existence in a sense. He has a fight with himself about his purpose and if he was really meant for nothing but war. That back and forth you heard in the middle of the song was the soldier questioning himself and then the other two voices are his thoughts telling him "You only understand the language of the sword."

[@joelbozarth3081]

As a retired army medic who is now a pediatric nurse I can say you completely nailed it. Great description.

[@carrietaylor6920]

save it and yes i do and you and i both know exactly who , why , and what it was written for too!

[@kirapoodle]

Like Guts

[@archerymidnight3422]

Nah, judging by the music video (which you should watch, it is incredibly well made) it's closer to a war between two tribes. One is peaceful and wants to sort out their issues through talking, and the other are only interested in acts of violence against every inhabitant (women and children included)

[@ImpostorModanica]

@@archerymidnight3422 Exactly, and the music video backs that up

[@hannahkaufman6720]

After seeing them live 5 times from 2020 to 2022, i can say their production has grown so much. This was their first ever performance. They said in interviews they didn't quite know how to dress, they all just chose what felt right but since then, things have become so much eicher and more layered in appearance, production...etc. it's incredible to watch the process and production continue to change and grow!

[@Nidels]

I am glad that you give this extremely exceptional Nordic group a chance. I tell you a little about its history. The group, which are two boys and one girl, have Norwegian, Danish and German nationality and uses instruments such as horns of different animals, drums, human bones, rattles with human ashes, bells, stones, all to go back to the first musical compositions that They were able to interpret 1,000 years ago, in the iron age in northern Europe. All the letters are taken from carved gadgets from the era of the Nordic iron, such as arrowheads, bows, swords, rune stones and recite poems and psalms of war, peace and protection. Whereupon and for this, heilung, which means healing in German, is in close collaboration with archaeologists specializing in the field. The languages ​​used by heilung are several. Among them are Latin, Old Danish, German and English. They were so successful with their first album that they had to release a new live album, which includes 2 new songs. Also a video of that album live and this year they released their second work, futha, which is a much more feminine work. His first album, Ofnir, is much more aggressive and masculine. During the concerts some representations of how these ancient rituals of the iron age could be made. Also just finished the soundtrack of the video game Hellblade 2. I hope this review helps you to understand a bit the context of this musical group. I recommend this video of her concert. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmKlpH5_hZmoj68 Some curiosities. When they built the drums for the group, one of which is made from horse skin, a doctor drew blood from the three members of the group and painted the drums and some of their clothes with it. The male singer with the deep voice is a great tattoo artist and very professional. The bones the girl plays with are human bones and sometimes they have had problems in the countries of the tour to introduce them through the border from the country where the concert was held.

[@MrMjshep]

You NEED, HAVE TO and SHOULD listen to the full concert! It's an incredible live performance and you can tell it's at a musical festival with the wide shots

[@aurumflash3983]

Words cannot describe my happiness and my thanks for discovering Heilung. Everyone is going to suggest In Maidjan next as it showcases more of Maria's insane vocal control in her higher register. Overall it was pretty hilarious to see your expressions throughout this song, but krigsgaldr kinda gives that effect. Listen to more and you won't regret it. Heilung means healing and as far as I'm concerned their music definitely heals.

[@bguzewi0]

You're one of my favorite react channels because for 1: you face hides nothing. You can tell in real time how you feel about a piece because your face tells all. And also, you have an academic understanding of music composition, and the the things you pick up on are really interesting to me as a layman because my musical understanding boils down to "this sounds cool to me" or "this sounds wack to me." It's super interesting to maybe know why when you break it down. Great channel, keep it up!

[@deathharpproductions3094]

This is my favorite band. Heilung = Healing. Very popular with PTSD Veterans. These are the prayers and legends of our ancestors.

[@rule-of-three1483]

My first real exposure to pagan practice was actually with a rifle company. Religion was some combination of historic reinterpretation and memes like Kamikrazee Warboys shouting "Blood for the Blood God!"

[@carrietaylor6920]

cant help it not even thought just written i see and its very true. im sorry its true.

[@jweissen8237]

Ancient norse chants

[@Immortall1408]

I also recommend "In Maidjan", which is much more interesting as far as vocals are concerned. But this one is a nice introduction with visuals and the soundscape in which they are operating.

[@paulairanilom1830]

I AM from South América, Uruguay and this so conforting in all levels. Makes me feel like I am part of something bigger than just me, and less alone. This entire show is amazing and healing, wich si properly suitable with their name. Love your reactions too, of course 😁

[@jttcosmos]

Knowing about the enthusiasm regarding "sudden male falsetto", the moment of "...I think there's a second voice..." resulted in me having to grin very broadly and think "yup, and can't wait for you to spot who is singing it" . :)

[@zazollo]

I had the same reaction of her the first time I saw/heard this song, I absolutely LOVE how he matches her tone. I can’t explain why but something about it is just awesome.

[@haerdy1337]

HAHAHA --grinning-- LOL YEAH!!

[@junemacdonald44]

As an Anishinaabewi from North America, I really appreciate how they invite the indigenous groups of the places they play up to celebrate together with them, it’s something really wonderful and healing to see.

[@ksy4747]

I will never forget the first time I heard this song, which was my first Heilung song. I was at work and had my KZbin on autoplay with some random stuff playing when this beauty crept into my headphones. From those first sounds I was hooked. I remember saying "what is this???"

[@jonathanwilliams2]

the fact that she plays D&D makes me love her even MORE 😍

[@quinntara20]

Omg....would she doo anything else

[@findpeaceindarkness1750]

Remember that we are all brothers... All people. and beasts, and trees, and stone and wind .... We all descend from the one great being, that was always there. Before people lived and named it, before the first seed sprouted.

[@ebbistrangeling]

The opening ceremony... I miss that so much

[@blackdog6969]

The first couple minutes really draw me in, they make me think of my Aboriginal heritage. You've got the drone (reminiscent of a didge) and the bones are essentially clapping sticks. This band, even though they represent another ancient culture, really take me back to what my ancestors could've listened to. That being said, I also have Celtic and Viking heritage as well so it really makes me fall in to a trance of sorts

[@NightmareCo666]

We're all connected kinsman! No matter our race or culture or how far we are, we are all one Much love from a half British half Scottish brother

[@txrick4879]

It's a lot like our native American culture too .

[@blackdog6969]

@@txrick4879 There's a theory supported by genetic tests that suggest Aussie aboriginals and native Americans are much more related than just cultural practices. Apparently we have a common ancestor that split ways at some point leading to the first nations of both continents. Just thought that'd be an interesting thing to throw out there

[@blackdog6969]

@@NightmareCo666 Much love too, my brother I have roots in both areas as well

[@jweissen8237]

It is Viking heritage, songs for war and songs for bringing fertile soil

[@petertrummer7828]

Huge compliment!!! It's such a vastly different style of music than the one you live yourself (I think). Your openness is to be admired! 😊

[@VOR4DORS_RAVEN]

The growling part in english feels like the internal dialogue the warrior has with himself. It feels like its about the internal struggle of someone who knows what he's about to have to do and how he lives with himself for it. How it's not easy, how its not supposed to be. But he knows its unavoidable.

[@gryphon0468]

Please consider Eivor - Trodlabundin next.

[@ToM_TouchOfMadness]

The live version in the mountains with crone of flowers 😄

[@gryphon0468]

@@ToM_TouchOfMadness absolutely. It’s haunting.

[@Kristen242008]

Yes! I love the live version she did in front of the Kópakonan Statue!

[@MsOddthoughts]

Yes! This needs to be upvoted so much! Eivor is awesome

[@crawleyman1117]

Yea!! This one is amazing!! Such a beautiful voice!!

[@nickn08]

Seeing Heilung in Denver last year was absolutely soul-changing. You're not at a concert, you're participating in a ritual.

[@carrietaylor6920]

or a mission meant to appeal to those who only notice the redundent rhymes of rhythem this was his voice spoken through me straight to you! Guess who im speaking of do you dare well, my dear , do you?

[@markmm1066]

Seeing them at Red Rocks!

[@gerrit9519]

The castle at Castlefest is more like a manorhouse, instead of your classical keep. Nonetheless, Castlefest is an institute. It;s basically THE Pagan celebration of Litha, the feast of Harvest, in the Netherlands. Heiliung played just after the burning of the Wickerman. Was pretty damn awesome! (was there :) )

[@Boudhewein]

Castlefest is my hightpoint of the year. Have been going there as a trader for years. Heilung was amazing.

[@gerrit9519]

@@Boudhewein boogschietbaan :)

[@BaconNationChannel]

Ah you mean the ancient lands of the Frisians! Not the Netherlands :)

[@BlitzsieLDiscoLSnow]

Wait, which year was this? Did I miss this? Damn... That sucks xD

[@VikingDrummerRob]

About your question at 5:00 , The songs name "Krigsgaldr" is a compound word that consists of "Krig" (war) and "Galdr" (Magic or Spell) which makes the names of the song "Warmagic", or "Warspell" which may be why you get the antsy feeling of needing to do something, like if these are the shamans psyching their warriors up before a battle or something.

[@realitycheck9762]

The Romans called that throat singing "wolves growl"

[@seidmadr2024]

A Moorish trader in Hedeby called it "the ugliest sound he ever heard"!

[@abyssstrider2547]

​@@seidmadr2024And an Arab scholar compared it to a barking of dogs that documented the old Norse.

[@metalhead1272]

To summarize this song, the quote "It's better to warrior in a garden than to be a gardner in war" fits pretty well

[@LaughingMan44]

I think the reason why a lot of people find this sort of thing meditative or relaxing in some way, is because it's so primal and ancestral. The reason why it reminds you of the Hu is because the Hu has the same sort of energy underlying it, despite the more western-esque rock elements. Both the ancient Germanic tribes and the Mongols have a shared common ancestor in the Great Steppe, hence there being so many similarities between archaic Viking/Germanic and Mongolian folk/song. I've also heard from others that elements of both remind them on Native American song/music, which makes sense since they are related to the Mongols and West Eurasians :) I think music like this feeds a part of our souls that are malnourished, as many of us are so far removed from nature and 'natural living' so to speak.

[@gadpivs]

None of this really works, sorry to say. The Germanic tribes first shared an immediate common ancestor with the Slavs, Celts, Balts, Italics, Greeks, Albanians, etc. -- and beyond that, Indians/Iranians -- as part of the Indo-European family before we can get anywhere close to their shared ancestor with the Mongols. Both groups lived in the Steppe at various points throughout prehistory/history, but their stays never overlapped. Also, the Maasai and related Kenyan tribes in Africa have throat singing, so it doesn't originate in the Steppe -- in fact, it might simply be one of the earliest forms of music that emerged as we evolved as a species, with evidence for its existence in lots of ancient, isolated populations that wouldn't have had a common ancestor until you go back to when humans first left Africa. As for any Native American musical elements, both those and the Mongol elements are entirely fabricated for show, and there is no historical basis for any of it. The Icelandic tvisongur tradition is a much closer approximation to what pre-Christian Scandinavian music would have sounded like. If anything, the lack of singing in parallel fifths or use of weird dissonances that are typically found in traditional polyphonic folk singing makes Heilung much more Native American than European in sound -- and that's because they want to appear "tribal" and "exotic" rather than historically accurate. It's part of the same push that we're seeing in media right now to make the Germanic peoples into tattooed, cartoonish totem worshippers -- the Vikings show, video games, etc. It's just more Hollywoodizing of an increasingly obscure and poorly preserved musical tradition that never actually gets any attention in those same circles -- and tvisongur (like its Bulgarian, Lithuanian, and Albanian cousins), for my money, just sounds more genuine, or at least less hokey.

[@LaughingMan44]

​@@gadpivs *Warning: very long comment* I'm specifically talking about Indo-Europeans, no need to be so pedantic, we arrived at the same conclusion. N. Indians mixed with peoples from the Steppe, but they themselves are not from there. You mention Kenyan throat-singing, very interesting but I'm talking about the overall song/music, not elements of it. That would be like saying both A and B have drums in it, but so does C therefore A and B are only superficially related. I'm talking about the overall tone, structure, rhythm, feel etc. If you think Masai and proto-Germanic reconstructions sound the same then you need your ears checked. Peoples who are more recently related to each other will share some cultural/social similarities at least in some aspects.Nordic people and Mongolians are far more similar to each other than either are to Africans. Kenyans having throat singing as evidence for it being an ancient thing that our common ancestors had isn't the only interpretation you can have. Kenyans are ass distantly related to our common ancestor as anyone else, it is entirely possible that A. indeed our common ancestors had this, or B. it is also entirely possible that throat singing developed independently and separately well past the point we diverged from our common ancestor. It may seem pedantic but I think it's and important thing to consider, two distant civilizations having invented wheels doesn't mean that our common ancestors did. Of course that too applies to my comparison between Germanic, Native American and Mongolian song/music. However, I'm not just talking about throat singing or a specific element, but the sum total of all these elements. If distant peoples share multiple commonalities, it is possible this is due to recent common cultural or ethnic ancestor, or it could imply they simply developed similar cultures/music/whatever due to adapting to similar environments. There are many ways you can look at it and it's very interesting :) As for N. American and Mongol musical elements being fabricated, I have no idea what you are talking about. Technically Heilung is a fabrication, but it is derived from historical and cultural research, and I believe such things are innate in a people, part of their DNA after thousands of years of adaptation and selection. The Icelandic tvisongur traditional music you mentioned seems to be a Medieval tradition? When I search for it, it seems that tvisongur is the name of a modern sound sculpture instead? What we're talking about is much more ancient. "Tvisongur" almost sounds like Gregorian Monks singing with some Nordic elements to it. I haven't done a literature dive into whether or not proto-Nordic/Germanic people's used polyphonics and dissonance etc., but you yourself said that something like throat singing is could be an innate aspect of all early human music, so why would it be so far fetched that this was the case? Or is it indeed a case that such musical elements could have developed relatively late and independently in different places that can also move with people as they migrate? Interesting questions either way. I understand your grievances with how "Vikings" are portrayed in media, historical revisionism really angers me, but Heilung here to me doesn't seem so far-fetched, nor does Mongolian folk music come across as a modern construct. I will read into it more however.

[@gadpivs]

​@@LaughingMan44 I'm not sure what you're getting at by "proto-Germanic reconstructions." Reconstructions from what? Runes weren't used as sheet music. We have no written record of pre-Christian Germanic music of any kind. The best idea that we have of its sound comes from Tacitus' mentioning of the Germanic baritus, or from Ibn Fadlan's mentioning of throat singing/growling, or the "Gothic dance" of the Varangians mentioned in the Book of Ceremonies of the Emperor Constantine VII. These give us a very general clue of the surface qualities of the music, but it doesn't tell us whether there was polyphony, or what kinds of harmonies, if any, were being used. We just know that a very specific portion was harsh and war-like in tone, but there are thousands of different ways that you can portray "harsh and war-like" in music. I certainly wouldn't directly compare pre-Christian Germanic music to the throat chanting of the Maasai peoples, but the latter's traditions aren't exactly well documented on the web, so you have to dig before you find anything interesting. The vast majority of it is going to be the happier-sounding dance music intended for the whole tribe, rather than the overtones used by the lion warrior brotherhoods. See here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zp24gnmKad-Jjc0 Anyway, I'd never state that this is what the music of someone living during the Iron Age in say, Denmark, would have been like. Each culture would have diversified its musical traditions considerably over thousands of years, even while retaining certain elements that could tell us that some aspects of the tradition can be linked to the oldest of human populations. My main problem with how Heilung expresses this concept is that this stuff sounds way too much like Native American music. If you listen to the vast majority of older polyphonic traditions -- and ones employing overtones in particular -- they use really interesting, dissonant harmonies. Native American music is the stereotype that people go to when they want amelodic, rhythmic, simple, and "savage." It lacks the harmonic complexity of, say, Bulgarian or Lithuanian folk music (which was most definitely pagan -- look up Romuva), which probably isn't that different from the music of the vikings, given the aforementioned tvisongur. And if you want overtones while keeping the interesting European harmonies, I'd sooner borrow from Sardinia than the Lakota: kzbin.info/www/bejne/op62c4iXhbergdE Yes, tvisongur has affiliations with medieval chant, because the tradition itself comes from Christian Iceland, not pre-Christian Iceland. However, it was used to chant pagan rimurs in its earliest forms, and probably slowly evolved to adopt more Gregorian elements over time, with the older traditions likely being "harsher." Also, to the untrained ear, there might not be much difference, but traditional Gregorian chant was a type of plainchant -- that is, monophonic singing, which ironically makes it more similar to the oversimplified "me barbarian me make boom boom noises" chanting of Heilung. Tvisongur, by contrast, will raise the hairs on the back of your neck if you really hear and appreciate the way it's sung in parallel fifths -- which it has in common with Bulgarian polyphonic music. I don't think these early examples of European polyphony evolved independently, but probably share a common ancestor, which necessarily would place the Icelandic tradition's last ancestor in the pagan period. All this aside, the point is that the real traditions used a lot of dissonance while still being melodic. To many, with it being acapella, it seems boring -- but that could easily be the result of desensitization, or being raised in the modern world, where we need everything to beat us over the head before we can appreciate it.

[@WhatDayIsItTrumpDay]

Loved your reaction to this band and song. They are very unique, aren't they? And despite having no modern instruments such as guitars, this band probably appeals to metal fans the most because as you might know, metal has many elements of Norse music and mythology within a few of its genres.

[@godslayer1415]

This along with Wolf Totem from the Hu are the 2 most metal things on youtube

[@kuru-yami9416]

you are absolutely right. im a huge metal head and recently discovered this band/song and now ive downloaded a bunch of their song as well as similar bands^~^ im happy i discovered this ancient genre

[@RS43210]

Seen this performance many times, and I get a chill every time at 22:15 when it seems like she notices me watching from the future and slowly turns to stare into my soul.

[@mr.invisible3770]

Elizabeth you have an amazing personality! I just love your excitement, knowledge and curiosity, you makes me smile and want to learn more about the technicalities of music.

[@darinfields4238]

I am so glad you chose to react to Heilung. Please understand that to extract one song is to miss that their performances are rituals from start to finish, so your uncertainties about where this song came from and where it's going are partly because you walked into the middle of things. The ritual of Lifa begins in peace and moves through conflict, sacrifice, rebirth and finally exaltation. Maria Franz's vocals throughout go through many expressive modes--honestly this song is not the best introduction to her voice. "In Maidjen" would have been the better place to start, but everybody points to this song. Othan is another excellent choice.

[@danfento]

Just reading the other comments real quick, loads of people have suggested Heilung's In Maidjan, which is a great song that showcases the whole band and is a good next step in introducing the wonder that is Maria Franz (the female vocalist). I think you should perhaps consider Heilung's Othan instead, however; fewer people have reacted to it, and it heavily feature's Maria's voice, instead of just the latter setion. Also, if you're looking for recommendations, Maria's band Euzen is a kinda electronic poppy-kinda band that is amazing and doesn't get much rep. You should check them out; her voice is incredible, and I'd love to learn more about what techniques she uses

[@kunou4527]

Agreed. Othan and In Maidjan are my two favorites due to her vocals being so prominent. I definitely have had Othan in my playlists for longer.

[@primeribviking3688]

No one has reacted to Traust yet. Thats a good one

[@vortex_master]

One of my favorite songs by Heilung. I'm sure by now people have mentioned this, but if you want to get more of the story, watch the official music video. It's actually heartbreaking. I think you did a fantastic job deciphering the meaning of the song. There's just something about this primal music style that we all KNOW and FEEL what it means. It's the sort of music our ancestors made for thousands and thousands of years. I feel like it's almost in our biology to resonate with the message of music like this. It's meant to put you on edge; it's meant to make you compelled to take action; it's meant to sound ugly during the "viking rap"; it's meant to feel unresolved. The threat of war has everyone on edge, especially a peaceful people. But no one will sit idly by and watch their loved ones die, we take action. War is ugly; it makes widows and parents without children and children without parents; it devastates the land and our resolve. In the end we are never any better off after war, at best we go back to where we left off but all wiser and more uncertain of the world.

[@carrietaylor6920]

guess what dear guess whats interesting , now i help no one , because of you!

[@royhandy8365]

I absolutely love how enthusiastic you are. The passion shines through!

[@jeneraljax29]

That moment at 22:13 when Maria breaks the 4th wall and stares deep into our souls 🥰🥰🥰🥰 it's both awe inspiring and terrifying lol Reminds me of the scene in a horror movie where the villain/monster is stalking the hiding victim and all of a sudden hears a sound.. I can't imagine that this camera angle and performance by her was unintentional.. it feels like it had to be done on purpose.. and if that's true then what an astounding choice by the stage director/performers. 👏👏👏

[@juliettemcgee9055]

The Kraken needs its own shield too 😆 Edit: You should check out Trøllabundin by Eivør.

[@mariiiioh]

YES!!!!!

[@aurumflash3983]

I second this :)

[@philk9227]

Definitely need some Trøllabundin by Eivør

[@KaiMarcad]

She is something special vocally. I don't what it is in her voice but it's so captivating.

[@burnnrub]

Would love to see you react to Eivør Pálsdóttir: Tròdlabùndin (Trøllabundin Live). It's an amazing performance. The performer is from the Faroe Islands and she is using some techniques that would be fun to see you react to.

[@sfh8370]

Second Eivør Pálsdóttir. She is a fantastic singer (In a more nordic folk tradition) from the Faroe Islands Tròdlabùndin: kzbin.info/www/bejne/raTPXn5-fMpngc0 Falling free (live) kzbin.info/www/bejne/gX-zepd9d9Nqg5Y Lívstræðrir (live from home) kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4TaeYWDrdmhe7s (There is some talk about the music in the beginning)

[@geekmastermind]

I agree. It is wonderful.

[@shungite4720]

I have seen wonderful things in Norway, and around the Baltic. I only found this band recently, its transformative music and mood shifting. A wonderful analysis Elizabeth, you clearly know your stuff. Beautiful enthusiasm in your face!

[@blackbaxter1]

I think the best part of these videos is watching her face while she is listening to the music. Awesome video! Love the music you’ve been analyzing lately.

[@hooligansteriotype]

one of the things I love that you may have missed (or I missed you mentioning it!) is the regular sound of metal on metal. it gives the impression of the hammering of iron, or something in the realm of sword making. I feel like this also lends to the ancient feeling and the preparation for war.

[@a7i20ci7y]

I had the distinct pleasure of seeing these guys perform just before covid happened. When they performed Traust, the bass hit and it felt like the world was going to shatter. Absolutely incredible.

[@carrietaylor6920]

if able let me know if you still feel the same , im guessing...not so true for you! in a year or two!

[@pluenna]

KZbin or another medium will never be able to give you an imagination of the intensity of their live performance. Nothing I ever saw (and I saw a lot live) was comparable to the Ritual you will be part of if you see them live. It was like a journey out of time and space, I totally forgot I was sitting in a chair of a concert hall in Berlin... I totally forgot myself and I was blown away for a long period afterwards. It’s worth every second, but you shouldn’t be too sensitive with flashlights 😬

[@ICEMANdrake214]

You need to honestly watch the whole show. It’s amazing from start finish

[@EvisMucaTvp]

She is the calm before the battle. The second voice it's the Be Ready for battle and the growl it's the aggression. She's the moments of piece. Anyhow. Not using the distortion which is like the discover of the wheel for rock, metal and all sub genres, it's so original and unique. There are other Scandinavians that had create similar, experimental using different instruments in the early 2000. Like Halo Manash. Aural Hypnox. I.corax but they're so cold and deep, I've listen them in a special moment of my life.

[@MorklebBlack]

I saw these guys live in Seattle and they are amazing. So glad they're getting exposure. It was one of the coolest live performances I've ever seen.

[@lenn1635]

The main male Vocalist is Kai Uwe Faust he is kind of the "Rune Master". He can probebly pronounce the sharp "s" that good because he is from Germany. You also shoud check out: "Fylgija Ear", "Norup", "In Maidjan" an "Hamrer Hippye" by Heilung. The name Heilung is german and means healing / cure.

[@Myselfandme999]

Thanks to your comment I went to look up if the Kai Uwe Faus you mentioned is the same as the tattoo artist. And he is! That's so cool, an extremely multi-talented guy!

[@GamingAnomaly]

This is actually one their strongest songs, but, to REALLY get the feel for this, the entire performance (ritual if you will), is extremely powerful. Their performance is extremely, extremely unique due to their range and uses of what we know that proto-germanic sounds would have been. One thing that makes Kai stand out is his unique interest in polyphonic singing. They've done some AMAZING interviews about their music. Side note: I nerded out about as hard as you did towards the end of this one. Try Futhorck as well.

[@mikerich9227]

I've just recently found your reaction videos - LOVE THEM - Ok so this is my take. I've experienced the build up to a battle or patrol/mission (prior military (infantry)). So from my experience the build up in this music is a kind of getting yourself prepared (which I think you may have stated yourself). It's not the moment you engage but more of a convincing yourself (building up courage) if you will. During the throat guttural moments is that time where you have psyched yourself up to the point (excuse the language) but are pissed off and your in a frame of mind that come what may. You as a warrior are ready almost frothy/anxious to get on with it. Its a Primordial state of being that allows you to be in a place in your mind that is inherently violent. It detaches any humanity and allows one to do what needs done without remorse. Thats kind the vibe I get from it. Sorry if that's dark thinking but is what I'm feeling with this song based on personal experience.

[@jefftheriault5522]

And unit cohesion chant stuff. Forming up out of road column into those pre shield wall formations where everyone is adjusting out into weapons clearance from each other, four or five ranks deep. The tactical systems that the Roman legions we're designed to chew through.

[@dads_diy]

Nah I think that's exactly what it does. It puts you in that state of mind. "come what may"

[@michaelkingsbury4305]

I've had the same kind of experience, but I cannot give a like to it. Sad to say it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I hope never to have another like it.

[@UiriNurho]

Damn, I have seen this so many times over the internet. And I actually was there, not knowing what Heilung actually was. It was in The Netherlands, recorded at Castlefest. I even recognise my own blowing horn in the audience at the end of the song, to respect the song. I went to my tent in awe, in a state of not knowing who I was and what I would want to be, and it made me think. This was only the second time I ever had this feeling. That concert did change me, and I am sure I was not the only one.

[@syntaxxerror5448]

Maria Franz with " Heilung " is one of the most creativ nordic tune Bands ever. Using Only Oldern Intruments Like Horns,Bones Shields, etc. and just like a little of electronic helps to create a sound that varps u strait into another Dimension... Live theyre even more impressive... Hope seeing u soon life again after we bet Corona.. Much health and love

[@jvit4245]

Love this song, for me I took the guy yelling at the end of that "Viking Rap" section to be so pumped up after basically nailing a hard syncopated section that he just let out one of those victory yells people do after getting a goal in a close game or just pulled off something cool with all that pent-up energy. While In Miadjan is absolutely a great song to demonstrate Maria's vocal range, technique and overall stage-presence with it, I will instead throw a mention to Othan which has more variance as a song that still shows off Maria's range while also bringing more of the male-singers into it too. And of course, just for the tension/anxiety they evoke, Alfadhirhaiti & Hamrer Hippyer are just total rides.

[@mikeselectricstuff]

If you like Scandanavian folky sounds, you should really check out Mari Boine "Eagle Brother" (Oslo Opera House)

[@lottalarsson4121]

@mikeselectricstuff I'm sorry but Mari Boine is sami.

[@Baustakar]

It's a danish/german collab. But well...It's still the same heritage :D

[@lottalarsson4121]

@@Baustakar I'm sorry but Mari Boine is sami.

[@Baustakar]

@@lottalarsson4121 Every source I can check and understand tells me she is from Norway? I don't know what is more true?!😅 Edit : To be fair her Name doesn't sound Sami(Maria Franz) and on the Heilung page it states norwegian ;)

[@Baustakar]

@@lottalarsson4121 Oh damn sorry..I missed the topic. Yes of course Mari Boine is Sami! Sorry!

[@TheCreepyCoroner]

"we ran out of instuments." "grab that antler and shield and just start smackin it" "good call! ill play the bones"

[@TheCreepyCoroner]

2 years later I've finally gotten to see them perform live. What an experience that was! Truly a life altering evening. I've havent felt so connected to the earth for decades. Heilung truly is Healing. The Earth needs them. My deepest gratitude to them for finding their strength and purpose 🙏 Blessed Be Heilung🌿💨

[@ravendragonseeker138]

So, I know this is three years old, but if you watch the official music video for this song, the art really tells the story. You don't need subtitles to understand it. This is about righteous anger and retaliation after an invasion of slaughter and r*pe. This is about going to avenge their fallen. This is rage.

[@MeatballCereal]

I swear 90% of my youtube viewing in the last 2 weeks has been Heilung reaction videos, I love it! I think it's funny that everyone has the same reaction of "I don't know what I am seeing or what I am hearing but this is amazing." I agree with the other comments; In Maidjan is stunning, Maria's voice is otherworldly. Hamrer Hippyer is a 13 minute grand finale of full on psychedelic tribal acoustic EDM shaman ritual trance with Gregorian chant-style healing spell from the Merseburg incantations of the 9th(?) century. It's a little intense.

[@ingovonderluhe2174]

Min Warb Naseu Wilr Made Thaim I Bormotha Hauni Hu War Hu War Opkam Har a Hit Lot Got Nafiskr Orf Auim Suimade Foki Afa Galande What am I supposed to do If I want to talk about peace and understanding But you only understand the language of the sword What if I want to make you understand that the path you chose leads to downfall But you only understand the language of the sword What if I want to tell you to leave me and my beloved ones in peace But you only understand the language of the sword I let the blade do the talking... So my tongue shall become iron And my words the mighty roar of war Revealing my divine anger's arrow shall strike All action for the good of all I see my reflection in your eyes But my new age has just begun The sword is soft In the fire of the furnace It hungers to be hit And wants to have a hundred sisters In the coldest state of their existence They may dance the maddest In the morass of the red rain Beloved brother enemy I sing my sword song for you The lullaby of obliteration So I can wake up with a smile And bliss in my heart And bliss in my heart And bliss in my heart Coexistence, Conflict, combat Devastation, regeneration, transformation That is the best I can do for you I see a grey gloom on the horizon That promises a powerful sun to rise To melt away all moons It will make the old fires of purification Look like dying embers Look like dying embers Look like dying embers Min Warb Naseu Wilr Made Thaim I Bormotha Hauni Hu War Hu War Opkam Har a Hit Lot Got Nafiskr Orf Auim Suimade Foki Afa Galande Hu War Hu War Opkam Har a Hit Lot Ylir Men Aero Their Era Mela Os

[@CatClaw666]

Elizabeth, you are so awesome! Your reactions, your analysis and your fantastic enthusiasm. I feel so good after watching any of your posts. Thank you!

[@weepat5325]

In addition to the bones, skulls, and antlers, the male singer who echos Maria is wearing what looks like a wolf pelt, and one of the drummers at the back has what looks like a polecat pelt as a headdress

[@TheTaiylorWallace]

Going to a Heilung performance is on my bucket list since first hearing them a year or two ago. At first they scared me, but my soul felt like it suddenly found a voice. A lot of Heilung fans get in touch with their Germanic heritage because of this music, myself included. As an American with no real heritage because it was stripped away by my country's nationalistic tendencies, being able to feel my Germanic roots is so healing. Hence Heilung, which indeed means healing. Also as a side note, there's a moment shortly after the singing picks back up in this video, when Maria looks seemingly directly at the camera. It makes my heart freeze for a moment every time.

[@RepairCat]

Definitely +1 to all the requests for In Maidjan! Another chance for the Tiefling horns :D

[@maximisPR1M3]

Anecdotally, i use this style of music when i lift weights, like you said it's that blend of meditative and just barely held tension. I can level out quick when I'm not actually lifting, but when it's time to go i can flip the switch. It brings a headspace that no other music can for me.

[@DeathbyPixels]

I know this is an old video but I gotta say the "viking rap" as you called it (which is hilarious btw) is whispered on the recorded version, which I like a lot better than the growly thing they did live. I went down a rabbit hole watching Heilung and similar bands' music video for art reference, and it's super fun watching someone new to Heilung go through all the emotions they instill. I only learned of them about a year ago and they're in my top three favorite groups of all time

[@kennymonty8206]

This is just the perfection of a source of music that's been working hard for a thousand years. Good job.

[@Drescher1984]

A good band for almost any DnD scenario is Týr, from the Faroe islands

[@scottinWV]

TYR are awesome!

[@steffis9806]

Seeing Heilung live was absolutely amazing. I fell into some sort of trance, like I was listening to a guided meditation. Had goosebumps all over and tears running down my cheeks.

[@catnipmurphy5971]

An anthropologist writes - It is true that in ancient times when the northern peoples would want to celebrate, the select groups would go into a clearing in a nearby forest and begin to play rudimentary instruments and bang hide drums. The shaman or druid would then stand at a certain point and relay the key elements of the performance to the rest of the village who would then in return pay homage to the shaman or druid by throwing the thumbs of defeated enemies to them. Sometimes jealous neighbours would set fire to the surrounding forest in the ancient origin of the copyright strike. This is the sort of thing that would fit the trolls of Discworld and their rock music. Using real rocks. Top notch ma’am. Reminded me of Clannad. But with antlers. Which is not a criticism.

[@hisk7263]

Terry Pratchett 💕

[@StephenElsworth]

I had the privilege of seeing Heilung in concert last month! Just pure outstanding! This is on of my favourite rituals!

[@GhostDrummer]

Watching your facial expressions with the different vocals on all the reactions is so awesome.

[@dc4457]

I believe the 'throatsinging' they are doing is called strohbass. It has a lot of vocal fry and also subharmonic or undertone elements. There is a good reason to believe that strohbass was a feature of authentic Norse singing. An early Muslim explorer/trader visited the Danish slave market at Hedeby around 1000 AD and wrote "Theirs is the worst singing I have ever heard. It is a growling in their throats, like the barking of dogs but even more bestial."

[@efhbke]

It actually sounds more like the Kargyraa style of throat singing. You can hear the ventricular fold vibrating along side the vocal folds - this produces the higher "grinding" sound. Strohbass produces mostly lower frequencies and when well done, often sounds like an oktavist. It is the sound often associated with monk chants. There is a good quick yt video showing a laryngoscopy of the two styles.

[@bryangetz3074]

It's a ancient germanic tribe that starts with a s dont remember the name of the tribe but the Norse is a blanket term for northern germanic tribes

[@thealexdn-k9d]

@@bryangetz3074 Swedes maybe (not modern people of Sweden, but one of their progenitors)?