Lyrics

• Deity of the Hunt: The track describes the leader of the Wild Hunt as a “God of Beasts” with “eyes of flame“, identified as “the Wild Hunt’s master, without a name“. This figure is powerful and fearsome, evoking a sense of primordial force and dominion over nature. His representation emphasizes his connection with the animal world and his position as sovereign in the wild realm. “Without a name” refers to the uncertainty about which figure led the group in ancient times: in more modern Celtic areas we find Arthur, in Scandinavia Odin is described, while in Germany there are references to Wotan.
• The Lord of Swine: Another title given to the hunt’s leader is “the Lord of Swine” who leads “ghostly throngs“. This reference to animals, particularly boars, highlights a connection between the deity of nature and recurring symbolism in ancient times. “His battle cry, like ancient songs” further emphasizes his connection to past traditions.
• The Spectral Hunt: The track evokes an atmosphere of terror and wonder, describing “hooves thunder loud, across the sky” and “as mortal souls in terror cry“. This representation emphasizes the intimidating power of the Wild Hunt and the fear it instills in humans. The description of “spectral hounds howl” adds a brief reference to the Gundestrup Cauldron.
• Boundary Between Worlds: The track describes how “as earthly bounds begin to blur” when the Wild Hunt approaches, creating an atmosphere where “the veil is thin“, highlighting how this mythical event represents the boundary between the world of the living and that of spirits, a moment of transition and transformation. The hunt invokes “reverence and fear“, emphasizing its dual nature as a force of nature to be both respected and feared.
• Times and Traditions: The text specifies that “when winter winds howl fierce and cold, the Wild Hunt’s tale is often told“, connecting the legend to a specific time of year and folk tradition. This reinforces the idea that the Wild Hunt is an integral part of Celtic culture and folklore, continuing to live through tales and legends.
• The Chorus: The track’s chorus, “ride with the Hunt! Storm and night! / Spectral hounds howl! Chilling sight! / Ride with the Hunt! Fear its might! / Join or flee! Heed its flight!“, serves as both invitation and warning. Its tone and verse repetition emphasize the urgency and inevitability of the Wild Hunt, creating a sense of imminent danger and fate.

The Musical Atmosphere
Beyond describing its elements, we structured the song as if it were a tale for children of ancient times, alternating a “spectral” voice with a lyrical one with a note of theatricality. The track opens with a guitar intro that evokes a misty and mysterious forest, as if entering the world of the hunt. The rhythm then becomes driving, with guitar riffs representing the rhythm of hooves and the fury of the hunt. The vocals emphasize the spectral and unsettling atmosphere of the legend. The instruments blend with modern and powerful metal sonorities, creating a unique and evocative sound that manages to convey the power and mystery of the Wild Hunt. The track aims to evoke the fear and respect that this mythical event inspires, but also its beauty and fascination.

“The Great Wild Hunt” is a musical exploration of a fascinating legend that embodies the fear and respect for the forces of nature and ancient traditions. Through music and lyrics, we try to evoke the power and mystery of the Wild Hunt, inviting listeners to reflect on the role of folklore and legends in our culture, and to connect with the wildest part of nature and its primordial forces.

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