Hexvessel

Hexvessel are a Helsinki, Finland-based group formed in 2009 by Mat McNerney, also known as Mat “Kvohst” McNerney. The project grows out of McNerney’s background in extreme metal in the UK and the Norwegian black metal scene, while its sound draws on psychedelic folk, folk rock, psychedelic rock and related dark and black metal elements. The group remains active and its membership includes Anti Ittna Haapapuro, Ville Hakonen, Jesse Heikkinen, Kimmo Helén, Marja Konttinen, Jukka Rämänen, Vesa Ajomo, Simo Kuosmanen, Andrew McIvor, Niini Rossi and Jussi Saarivuori.

Formation and background

McNerney forms Hexvessel after moving to Finland, where he finds inspiration in the country’s mythology, pre-Christian heritage and pagan traditions. He also fronts the gothic pop group Grave Pleasures. Hexvessel’s writing often reflects nature, folklore and oral storytelling, with references to Finland, England and Ireland running through the project’s imagery and themes.

Sound and influences

The group describes its music through folk and psychedelic traditions, with influences that include Shirley Collins, Vashti Bunyan, Steeleye Span, Fairport Convention, King Crimson, Current 93, Nick Cave and Coil. Their work also draws on Karelian and Nordic folklore rhythms. The result is a style that combines older folk forms with a more contemporary psychedelic approach.

Releases and recognition

Hexvessel’s discography includes Dawnbearer (2011), No Holier Temple (2012), When We Are Death (2016), All Tree (2019), Kindred (2020) and Polar Veil (2023). Their debut album Dawnbearer receives acclaim, and the group goes on to release two more albums of forest folk and psychedelic music before When We Are Death. They also receive two Finnish Grammy nominations, play sold-out headline tours in Finland, tour Europe with acts such as Sabbath Assembly and Alcest, perform on the main stage at Roadburn in the Netherlands, and appear at SXSW in Texas. Their music also reaches the charts and critics’ lists.

All Tree

All Tree features McNerney with Andrew McIvor, Kimmo Helén, Jukka Rämänen, Jesse Heikkinen, Antti Haapapuro and Marja Konttinen, with session contributions from Daniel Pioro on violin and Dirk Campbell on flutes and duduk. The album is released on the group’s own Secret Trees imprint in partnership with Century Media.