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Heidevolk
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Heidevolk (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈhɛi̯dəˌvɔlk]) is a Dutch folk metal band. The lyrical themes of their music are inspired by nature, the history of Gelderland, and Germanic mythology. Most of their lyrics are in Dutch; however, on their 2015 album, Velua, they have one original English song, "Vinland", and several English covers. Their 2018 album, Vuur van verzet, contains two English-language songs: "A Wolf in My Heart" and "The Alliance".
Key Information
History
[edit]![[icon]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Wiki_letter_w_cropped.svg){kind=small} | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding missing information. (December 2023) |
Heidevolk was founded under the name Hymir in 2002. They later changed their name to Heidevolk (Dutch for 'heath-folk' or 'heather folk'), inspired by the Veluwe landscape. The band started performing live in 2003. They have since released one demo, six full-length studio albums, and one EP.[1]
Their third album, Uit oude grond, was released to generally positive critical acclaim, with one writer calling the album "A hugely enjoyable release combining aggressive metallic riffage with tastefully entwined traditional folk instrumentation and melody".[2]
Collaborations
[edit]Vocalists Mark Bockting and Joris Boghtdrincker have contributed vocals to the Arkona song "Na Moey Zemle" (На моей земле) (In My Land). The track also features vocalists from Månegarm (Sweden), Obtest (Lithuania), Menhir (Germany), and Skyforger (Latvia).[3] Each sings in their native language, playing the role of warriors from that region, describing their homeland to a traveler.
Band members
[edit]Current
[edit]- Jacco de Wijs (Jacco Bühnebeest) – vocals (2015–present)
- Daniël Wansink (Daniël den Dorstighe) – vocals (2021-present)
- Koen Romeijn (Koen Vuurdichter) – guitar (2015–present)
- Mat van Baest (Mat Snaerenslijper)– guitar (2020–present)[4]
- Rowan Middelwijk (Rowan Roodbaert) – bass guitar (2006–present)
- Kevin van den Heiligenberg (Kevin Houtsplijter) – drums (2022–present)[5]
Former
[edit]- Joris Boghtdrincker – vocals (2002–2013)
- Jesse Vuerbaert (Ohtar) – vocals (2002–2005)
- Niels Beenkerver – guitar (2002–2005)
- Paul Braadvraat – bass guitar (2002–2006)
- Sebas van Eldik (Sebas Bloeddorst) – guitar (2002–2011)
- Joost Westdijk (Joost den Vellenknotscher) – drums (2002–2022)
- Reamon Bomenbreker – guitar (2005–2015)
- Mark Splintervuyscht – vocals (2005–2015)
- Stefanie Speervrouw – violin (2007–2008)
- Kevin Vruchtbaert – guitar (2012–2015)
- Lars Vogel (Lars Nachtbraeker) – vocals (2013–2020)[6]
- Kevin Storm – guitar (2016–2018)
Timeline
[edit]
Discography
[edit]- De strijdlust is geboren (2005)
- Wodan heerst (EP, 2007)[7]
- Walhalla wacht (2008)
- Uit oude grond (2010)
- Batavi (2012)[8]
- Velua (2015)
- Vuur van verzet (2018)
- Wederkeer (2023)
References
[edit]- ^ "Heidevolk en Ithilien: Op 12 mei 2017 in Baroeg, Rotterdam". Metalfan.nl (in Dutch). Retrieved 28 December 2023.
- ^ Uit Oude Grond review on OneMetal.com Archived 24 April 2010 at the Wayback Machine
- ^ Eck, Markus (2009). "Arkona – Goi Rode Goi". Sonic Seducer (in German). No. 11. Archived from the original on 11 February 2013.
- ^ W., René (11 August 2020). "Heidevolk – 8 August 2020 – Metal Festival Alliance Livestream 2020". time-for-metal.eu. Retrieved 2 December 2020.
- ^ "We are complete once again!". Heidevolk. 4 April 2022.
- ^ "Friends, today we have some sad news..." Heidevolk Official Facebook. 2 December 2020. Retrieved 2 December 2020.
- ^ "Heidevolk – Biography – Metal Storm". www.metalstorm.net. Retrieved 6 September 2017.
- ^ Heidevolk "Batavi" Release Date: 02 Mar 2012 / 06 Mar 2012 (US) Archived 15 February 2012 at the Wayback Machine napalmrecords.com. Retrieved on 11 January 2012.
External links
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Heidevolk
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History
Formation and early releases
Heidevolk was founded in September 2002 in Arnhem, Netherlands, initially under the name Hymir by Joris Boghtdrincker and Sebas Bloeddorst, who shared a vision for a band blending metal with Dutch folk traditions. The group quickly expanded to include bassist Mark Bockting and drummer Joey Posthouwer, forming the core initial lineup alongside Boghtdrincker on vocals and guitar and Bloeddorst on guitar. This early configuration emphasized acoustic instrumentation and clean vocals to evoke pagan and historical themes rooted in the Gelderland region.[8][9] In 2003, the band changed its name to Heidevolk, translating to "heath folk" in Dutch, to better reflect their cultural heritage and connection to the Netherlands' rural landscapes and ancient folklore. The name symbolized the "people of the heath," drawing from the expansive heathlands of their homeland and underscoring their commitment to authentic, regionally inspired music. This rebranding coincided with the start of live performances, helping solidify their identity within the emerging European folk metal scene.[10][11] The band's first recording, the self-released demo De strijdlust is geboren in 2005, marked their debut and established a signature sound combining aggressive metal riffs with acoustic folk elements, flutes, and choral harmonies. Clocking in at around 40 minutes across eight tracks, it featured lyrics in Dutch celebrating Germanic mythology and resistance themes, produced on a modest budget to capture raw energy. Though limited in distribution, the demo garnered attention among underground metal circles for its fresh take on folk metal, leading to early gigs across the Netherlands and neighboring countries.[12][13] In March 2007, Heidevolk self-released the EP Wodan heerst, a four-track effort that refined their style with tighter production, incorporating violin and hurdy-gurdy for atmospheric depth while maintaining dual clean vocals and upbeat tempos. The title track paid homage to the god Wodan, blending battle hymns with folk melodies, and the EP served as a bridge to full-length material, receiving positive feedback for its infectious energy and cultural authenticity in European metal publications. Later that year, in November, the band signed with Napalm Records.[14][15] Their debut studio album, Walhalla wacht, arrived in 2008 via Napalm Records, expanding on the EP with nine songs that polished the folk metal formula through professional mixing, emphasizing epic choruses, traditional instruments, and narratives of Viking and Batavian history. Recorded in studios across the Netherlands, it highlighted improved songwriting and vocal harmonies between Boghtdrincker and guest contributors, earning acclaim as one of the standout folk metal releases of the year for its anthemic quality and avoidance of over-the-top clichés. Initial reception in the European scene praised its balance of aggression and melody, boosting the band's visibility at festivals and supporting tours.[16][17][18]Rise to prominence
In 2007, Heidevolk signed with the Austrian label Napalm Records, marking a significant step toward broader distribution and professional production for their folk metal sound.[15] This partnership facilitated the release of their second studio album, Uit oude grond, on March 26, 2010. The album was acclaimed for its enhanced production quality, which featured a more polished mix compared to prior efforts, and its integration of traditional Dutch folk elements such as native-language lyrics and instruments like the violin.[19][20] Tracks like "Vlammenzee" and "Dondergod" highlighted the band's muscular yet melodic style, contributing to growing recognition within the European metal scene.[21] Building on this momentum, Heidevolk released Batavi on March 2, 2012, a concept album centered on the ancient Batavians' revolt against Roman rule in the first century AD.[22] The record opened with the resolute "Een Nieuw Begin," blending resolute guitars and dual clean vocals, while "De Toekomst Lonkt" offered melodic verses and a racing pace, and the title track "Batavi" evoked epic historical struggle.[23] Supported by tours including the Paganfest circuit across Europe and North America, the album solidified the band's international touring presence and appeal to folk metal audiences.[24] During this period, the band underwent a key lineup change when longtime vocalist Joris Boghtdrincker departed in May 2013, following over a decade of contributions, with his final performance at Paganfest in New York.[25] Heidevolk soon announced the addition of vocalist Lars Nachtbraeker (real name Lars Vogel, alias Bláhrafn) in November 2013, whose skilled clean and growled vocals helped maintain the group's dual-vocal dynamic.[26] The 2015 album Velua, released on March 20, represented a stylistic evolution with the introduction of the English-language track "Vinland," a tribute to Norse exploration that broadened lyrical accessibility.[27] The limited edition also included covers of Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song," The Nits' "In the Dutch Mountains," and Billy Idol's "Rebel Yell," showcasing the band's willingness to reinterpret influences outside traditional folk metal.[28] This experimentation, combined with core tracks like "Winter Woede" and "Herboren in Vlammen," marked a maturation in their sound while preserving Germanic themes. By 2018, Heidevolk achieved further prominence with Vuur van verzet, released on January 12, which incorporated more English songs such as the heroic "A Wolf in My Heart," emphasizing human resilience.[29] Critics praised the album's stellar songwriting, crisp production—particularly the percussion—and its balance of folk introspection and metal intensity, with tracks like "Ontwaakt" evoking the band's earlier works while advancing their evolution.[30][31] The release coincided with high-profile festival appearances, including a set at Wacken Open Air that August, where they performed staples like "Nehalennia" and new material, enhancing their status in the global folk metal community.[32]Recent activities
In 2023, Heidevolk released their sixth studio album, Wederkeer, through Napalm Records on February 24.[13] The record serves as a concept album exploring themes of return and resilience, drawing from myths, nature, and legends of the Veluwe region in the Netherlands, presented as a powerful odyssey of the self deeply rooted in pagan traditions.[33] Standout tracks include the acoustic title song "Wederkeer," evoking introspective campfire imagery, and the anthemic "Drink met de Goden (Walhalla)," which blends choral elements with dynamic folk metal riffs.[34][35] The album received positive critical reception for its return to the band's folk metal roots, uplifting moods amid somber tones, and cultural depth.[36][37] Following the departure of vocalist Lars Nachtbraeker in late 2020, the band's lineup stabilized with key additions that supported their evolving sound. Guitarist Mat van Baest joined as a full member in 2020, contributing to sessions and tours during a transitional period. Drummer Kevin Houtsplijter came on board in 2022, providing percussion for Wederkeer and subsequent live efforts. These changes marked a period of solidification, enabling consistent dual-vocal performances and instrumental drive without further major shifts. Heidevolk maintained momentum through extensive touring and festival appearances from 2024 onward. They sailed on the 70000 Tons of Metal cruise in January–February 2024, sharing the bill with over 60 acts on a voyage from Miami.[38] Later that year, the band performed at Wacken Open Air in August, delivering a set highlighted by tracks like "Ostara" amid a diverse lineup.[39] The Midwinter Show series in November–December 2024 featured intimate headline performances across Dutch venues such as Dynamo in Eindhoven and Doornroosje in Nijmegen, emphasizing seasonal pagan themes. In early 2025, they joined the revived Paganfest tour, supporting Alestorm alongside Ensiferum, Týr, and Elvenking for 30 European dates, which concluded successfully in February.[40][41] As of November 2025, Heidevolk has not announced a new studio album, shifting focus to live performances and direct fan interaction. The band has emphasized ongoing tours and community building through active social media presence, sharing updates on shows, member milestones, and behind-the-scenes content to foster engagement with their pagan metal audience.[42][43]Musical style and themes
Genre influences
Heidevolk's core genre is folk metal, particularly within the Viking metal subgenre, which fuses aggressive heavy metal structures with traditional acoustic folk elements to create an energetic and culturally rooted sound.[1] This blend is evident in their use of powerful guitar riffs and thundering drums alongside folk instrumentation, such as violin, which adds melodic depth and authenticity to the compositions.[20] The band's style draws heavily from Dutch folk traditions, incorporating native melodic patterns and rhythms that evoke regional heritage, while integrating Viking and medieval motifs through thematic instrumentation and arrangements.[44] Influences from the broader pagan metal scene, as seen in bands like Elvenking and Finntroll, contribute to their incorporation of upbeat, folk-infused pagan anthems with a focus on communal, ritualistic energy.[45] In their early work, Heidevolk emphasized a raw mix of acoustic folk passages and heavy metal aggression, as showcased in their debut album Walhalla Wacht, where dual clean male vocals harmonize over shredding guitars and occasional folk interludes to balance intimacy and intensity.[46] Over time, the band's sound evolved, particularly from the 2015 album Velua onward, with the introduction of symphonic and orchestral arrangements—including layered strings and choral elements—that amplified the epic scope of their folk metal foundation without overshadowing the live-driven authenticity.[47] This style continued in later releases like the 2023 album Wederkeer, reaffirming their signature blend of folkloric tunes, traditional instruments, and fast metal riffing fueled by pagan pride.[48] Heidevolk's production style prioritizes a duality of clean vocals delivered by two male singers for a robust, harmonious effect, occasionally punctuated by harsh growls for dramatic contrast in select tracks.[49][50] Upbeat tempos drive their songs forward with marching rhythms and fast-paced riffs, fostering a preference for live instrumentation to capture the organic vitality of folk traditions within a metal framework.[49]Lyrical content
Heidevolk's lyrics primarily draw inspiration from nature, the regional history of Gelderland, and Germanic mythology, evoking ancient tribes, landscapes, and figures such as Odin and Valhalla.[1] For instance, songs like "Velua" celebrate the natural beauty of the Veluwe region in Gelderland, portraying its heathlands and woodlands with reverence for the environment.[51] Similarly, tracks such as "Het Gelders Volkslied" highlight the province's cultural heritage through descriptions of its clay soils, moors, streams, and hills, emphasizing a deep connection to local identity.[52] Mythological elements appear in lyrics referencing Valhalla and pagan pride, as in "Walhalla Wacht," which depicts heroic warriors awaiting eternal battle in the afterlife.[53] The band predominantly writes lyrics in Dutch to maintain authenticity and cultural rootedness, reflecting their origins in the Netherlands.[54] This choice allows for nuanced expression of regional and historical narratives that resonate with Dutch-speaking audiences, though translations reveal universal themes of heroism and nature.[55] Occasional English tracks, such as "Vinland" from the 2015 album Velua, were introduced to broaden appeal to international fans, particularly in North America.[56] Heidevolk employs an epic storytelling narrative style, crafting heroic sagas that unfold like ancient chronicles of resistance and valor.[57] A prime example is the 2012 concept album Batavi, which narrates the Batavian tribe's revolt against Roman oppression, portraying themes of freedom, battle, and tribal unity through intense, sequential tales of defiance.[55] This approach blends environmental reverence with mythological grandeur, often fueled by pagan pride and folkloric elements to create immersive, saga-like experiences.[54] Over time, Heidevolk has incorporated more bilingual elements post-2015, evolving from strictly Dutch compositions to include English originals and covers on albums like Velua, aiming to connect with global listeners while preserving their core thematic authenticity.[56] This shift reflects a strategic adaptation to international touring and fanbase growth, without diluting the focus on Gelderland's history and Germanic lore, as seen in the 2023 album Wederkeer which features mostly Dutch lyrics alongside an English adaptation of the track "Drinking with the Gods (Valhalla)".[45][58]Band members
Current members
As of 2025, Heidevolk's lineup features a stable ensemble focused on delivering their folk metal sound through dual lead vocals, dual guitars, bass, and drums.- Jacco Bühnebeest (vocals and accordion since 2016): Provides clean, melodic lead vocals that emphasize the band's anthemic choruses and folkloric elements.[59]
- Daniël den Dorstighe (vocals since 2022): Handles the second lead vocal duties, complementing the dual clean vocal style with deep, resonant tones suited to the group's pagan themes.
- Koen Vuurdichter (lead guitar and backing vocals since 2015): Contributes intricate guitar riffs and solos that blend heavy metal aggression with acoustic folk influences.[60]
- Mat Snaerenslijper (rhythm guitar and backing vocals since 2020): Supports the rhythmic drive and harmonic layers, enhancing the band's live energy and studio arrangements.[61]
- Rowan Roodbaert (bass guitar and backing vocals since 2006): As the longest-serving member, delivers foundational bass lines that integrate traditional folk motifs into the metal framework, maintaining continuity across the band's evolution.[62]
- Kevin Houtsplijter (drums since 2022): Powers the percussion with dynamic beats that propel the folk-infused rhythms and support high-energy performances on recent tours.[63]
Former members
Joris Boghtdrincker served as a founding member of Heidevolk in 2002, handling lead vocals, acoustic guitars, and midwinter horn until his departure in 2013. As the band's primary songwriter and lyricist, he was instrumental in shaping its early sound and establishing the use of Dutch-language lyrics centered on Germanic mythology, pagan themes, and the history of the Gelderland region. His contributions appear across the band's initial albums, including De Strijdlust Is Geboren (2005) and Walhalla Wacht (2008). Boghtdrincker left to seek new personal opportunities and horizons, with his final performance occurring at the Paganfest in New York.[2][25][64] Lars Nachtbraeker joined Heidevolk as lead vocalist in 2013, directly succeeding Boghtdrincker, and remained until 2020. He provided vocals for key releases such as Velua (2015) and Vuur van Verzet (2018), helping maintain the band's folk metal intensity while adapting to evolving lineups. Nachtbraeker departed due to shifts in his professional and personal circumstances, a move the band acknowledged with respect while wishing him well.[65][64] Among other notable former members are founding guitarist Sebas Bloeddorst (2002–2011), who co-established the band alongside Boghtdrincker and drummer Joost Vellenknotscher, contributing guitars, tambourine, mandolin, and backing vocals to early demos and albums before leaving after nine years to prioritize family and other endeavors. Vocalist Mark Splintervuyscht (real name Mark Bockting; 2005–2015) delivered the band's signature dual-vocal harmonies on releases like Uit Oude Grond (2009) and Batavi (2012), departing after 12 years alongside guitarist Reamon Bomenbreker (2005–2015) to pursue individual projects. Drummer Joost Vellenknotscher (2002–2022) offered rhythmic support and backing vocals throughout two decades, including on all studio albums up to Vuur van Verzet, before exiting as the final original member. Early contributors also included guitarist Niels Beenkerver (2002–2005) and bassist Paul Braadvraat (2002–2006), who helped solidify the band's foundational folk metal elements on its debut demo and EP.[66][67][64]Timeline
Heidevolk's lineup has evolved significantly since its formation, with no original members remaining as of 2022, though continuity has been maintained through long-term members like bassist Rowan Roodbaert, who joined in 2006. The following table outlines key membership changes chronologically, including roles and ties to major career milestones such as album recordings.| Year | Changes | Linked Events |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Formation as Hymir (later renamed Heidevolk in 2004): Joris den Boghtdrincker (vocals), Sebas Bloeddorst (guitar), Joost den Vellenknotscher (drums), Jesse Vuerbaert (vocals), Niels Beenkerver (guitar), Paul Braadvraat (bass) join as founding members.[68][69] | Band forms in Arnhem, Netherlands; early demo Hymir recorded. |
| 2005 | Jesse Vuerbaert (vocals) and Niels Beenkerver (guitar) leave; Mark Bockting (vocals) and Reamon Bomenbreker (guitar) join.[69] | Transition supports recording of debut album De Strijdlust Is Geboren. |
| 2006 | Paul Braadvraat (bass) leaves; Rowan Roodbaert (bass, backing vocals) joins.[69][1] | Roodbaert contributes to Wodan Heerst sessions, establishing core rhythm section. |
| 2011 | Sebas Bloeddorst (guitar) leaves in fall.[66] | Departure announced May 20; Bloeddorst participates in final recordings for Batavi (released 2012). |
| 2013 | Joris den Boghtdrincker (vocals) leaves May 8; Lars Nachtbraecker (vocals) joins, initiating dual vocal setup with Bockting.[25][70] | Last show at Pagafest (New York); dual vocals debut on Velua (released 2015). |
| 2015 | Mark Bockting (vocals) and Reamon Bomenbreker (guitar) leave April 21; Koen Romeijn (Koen Vuurdichter, guitar, backing vocals) joins.[71][72] | Departures announced ahead of Velua release show (May 2, their final performance); Vuurdichter aids post-Velua transition. |
| 2016 | Jacco de Wijs (Jacco Bühnebeest, vocals) and Kevin Storm (guitar) join as permanent members September 9, after serving as session players.[73] | Joins support Velua touring and rerecording of "Drankgelag (Velua)". |
| 2018 | Kevin Storm (guitar) leaves May 14; Mat Snaerenslijper (guitar, backing vocals) joins.[74][75] | Snaerenslijper recruited during search for new guitarist; contributes to Vuur van Verzet (released 2018). |
| 2020–2021 | Lars Nachtbraecker (vocals) leaves December 2020 (announced December 3); Daniël Wansink (Daniël den Dorstighe, vocals) joins 2021.[65][75] | Post-pandemic refresh; Den Dorstighe auditions and joins for Wederkeer preparations (released 2023). |
| 2022 | Joost den Vellenknotscher (drums) leaves April 2; Kevin van den Heiligenberg (Kevin Houtsplijter, drums) joins.[76][13] | Final original member departs; Houtsplijter integrates during lineup stabilization, marking no originals remaining.[1] |