Vanaheim – Roede Voor De Borst

Vanaheim
Roede Voor De Borst
Label: Fireflash Records / Edel
Out: 4^th September 2026
Playing time: 38:45

The international Folk Metal outfit Vanaheim has its roots in the ‘Land of Wide Views’, namely the Dutch city of Tilburg. Since its formation in 2015, the quintet has been on an endless journey through foreign lands, spreading its own folk tales.

And over the course of these eleven years, there have been very few line-up changes. Only the guitarist’s position has changed. But Michael van Eck has also been on board since 2017. And violinist Rikke Linssen joined the band in 2022. Prior to that, this instrument was either not played at all or not covered by a permanent member (source: Encyclopaedia Metallum). 2022 was also the year in which their debut album, ‘Een verloren verhaal’, was released. In the years prior to that, only two EPs had been released. As a little taster, Vanaheim have released two singles this year from their current album, ‘Roede Voor De Borst’. When you read these titles (as well as the song titles), it’s clear that the lyrics were written in the band’s native language. The album features guest musicians such as Coen Janssen from Epica and Nils Fischer from Eluveitie, whose contributions enrich the band’s sound on all the new tracks.

‘Geestenmist’ (meaning ‘Ghost Mist’ in English) begins with a traditional Folk intro. Then the raspy voice of singer Zino van Leerdam rings out, accompanied by the hard-hitting, loud rhythm section and epic choruses. The melodies are often very catchy. On ‘Kroos en Slijk’ (‘Seaweed and Mud’), the heavy riffs are initially underpinned by double bass. Here, too, there is a large dose of epic grandeur, with catchy choral singing and maritime sounds. Rikke Linssen enriches the sound with her violin playing. Violin and piano introduce the somewhat calmer ‘Het Laatste Licht’ (‘The Last Light’). The raspy vocals are countered by epic choruses, folk instrumentation and layers of strings. There’s also a chorus that you can certainly sing along to. Things really kick off with ‘Eendracht Maakt Macht’ (‘Unity is Strength’). Alongside the folk-inspired elements, there’s also a slight Speed/Thrash edge. In contrast to this, accordion sounds can be heard. Vocalises and quietly spoken vocals open ‘De Overtocht’ (‘The Crossing’). But it doesn’t stay that way for long; soon riffs and drums are blasting from the speakers. Epic keyboards and the raw vocals ensure the folk atmosphere. The title track ‘Roede voor de Borst’(‘To take a stand’ – that’s just one possible translation) provides the grand finale. At first, acoustic guitars and an accordion can be heard. Then the music shifts back into Thrash-Folk territory. However, it remains mostly melodic.

When I hear Folk Metal, I’m a bit sceptical at first. The sound is often dominated by horns, flutes and bagpipes. But with ‘Roede voor de Borst’, it’s a bit different. Traditional instruments are used sparingly and, above all, to complement the songs. Rikke Linssen’s violin playing isn’t typical Folk fiddling either. The emphasis is actually on Metal, which is enriched by various Folk elements.

Vanaheim – De Overtocht: https://youtu.be/8L_9-T8PPJY?si=OmYgz3gUCtyyyXpZ

Lineup:

Zino van Leerdam – Vocals
Michael van Eck – Guitar
Mike Seidel – Bass
Rikke Linssen – Violin
Bram Trommelen – Drums

Track list:

• Geestenmist
• Kroos en Slijk
• Het Laatste Licht
• Eendracht Maakt Macht
• De Overtocht
• Roede voor de Borst