In the Hall of the Mountain King

Eluveitie's rendition of 'In the Hall of the Mountain King' is a powerful and intense interpretation of a classic tale. The lyrics, though brief, are packed with emotion and narrative depth, drawing from Henrik Ibsen's play 'Peer Gynt' and Edvard Grieg's famous orchestral piece of the same name. The song tells the story of a Christian man's son who has seduced the Mountain King's fairest maid, leading to a call for his execution. The repeated cries of 'Slay him!' emphasize the urgency and intensity of the Mountain King's wrath.

The lyrics are a mix of Danish and English, which adds a layer of historical and cultural depth to the song. The Danish lines, 'Slagt ham! Kristenmands søn har dåret Dovregubbens veneste mø!' translate to 'Slay him! The Christian man's son has seduced the fairest maid of the Mountain King!' This bilingual approach not only pays homage to the original Scandinavian roots of the story but also enhances the dramatic tension and authenticity of the narrative.

Eluveitie, known for their unique blend of folk and metal, brings a raw and primal energy to this classic tale. The band's use of traditional instruments alongside heavy metal elements creates a soundscape that is both ancient and modern, perfectly capturing the timeless nature of the story. The lyrics' call for vengeance and the imagery of 'ice to your blood' evoke a sense of cold, unyielding justice that is central to the Mountain King's character. This song is a powerful exploration of themes like betrayal, retribution, and the clash between different worlds and cultures.