Review: Heidnir – Der kosmische Tanz

Review by Nekrist

Heidnir – Der kosmische Tanz

Record Label: Independent

Year: 2026

Rating: 9/10

Not long ago, while listening to music on the popular streaming platform Spotify, the algorithm (which I consider quite good, by the way) recommended a band that pleasantly surprised me with just a few seconds of one of their songs. Not only the artwork, but also the atmosphere and passages immediately captured my attention, leading me to investigate and listen to more of this Austrian Black Metal project called Heidnir.

Heidnir

The single in question was “Der kosmische Tanz,” the title track of the album. I found the name not only incredibly appealing and poetic for a full-length album, but it was also accompanied by outstanding musical and compositional quality. Something that always captivates me is that “Germanic” sound that bands (especially those from Germany and Austria possess, which I would describe as heroic, epic, and simultaneously with “folky” undertones in their melodies. These melodies always end up resonating in my mind days after listening to this style, and naturally, they make me want to listen to it again and again. A band that perfectly exemplifies this would be the German Horn and Mavorim.

It’s a very varied and consistent work, using a variety of elements and embellishments throughout the songs that give each one a lot of personality, such as melancholic choirs, more introspective and atmospheric instrumental moments, and, of course, the classic Black Metal attack, but always displaying elegance and class in all its nuances.

I believe this album can be enjoyed as a whole or by listening to individual songs, but appreciating the entire album is the most recommended approach. That being said, it’s a record aimed at people who know how to appreciate music by enjoying and analyzing every little detail; it’s not an album to put on in the background while cooking or making dinner, but rather one that requires concentration to truly enjoy.

This project was a great discovery; from now on, it’s on my radar. I also highly recommend it to anyone looking for a breath of fresh air amidst so much generic Black Metal, as they will find plenty of character and personality here.