The band In Extremo was formed in 1995 in Berlin. The group mostly reworks medieval ballads in different languages, including dead ones. In Extremo works with German, Latin, Old French, Old German, and Swedish. While the musicians play modern instruments, they also use flutes, harps, and bagpipes.
When the group was just starting out, it mostly played instrumental folk rock, the basis of which was old music and lyrics. In 1998, when they presented the album, Weckt die Toten, the overall approach seemed to have changed. In Extremo’s music featured elements of folk metal with the addition of heavy metal. In 2001, the group presented the LP, Sunder Ohne Zügel, which showed the change of preferences toward industrial metal. However, folk metal with elements of old songs stayed a priority.
Many people become fans of In Extremo for its impressive live performances. The musicians make an impression of being medieval artists. To complete their image, they use special costumes, make fire shows, and do everything to create an atmosphere of the old times. Their unforgettable shows and original style help people learn more about different directions of folk music. The band managed to achieve popularity in its native Germany and many other countries.
The group’s founder is Miсhael Rhein, whose nickname is translated from German as The Last Unicorn. He is also often called by his short name Micha. Since childhood, he enjoyed learning about medieval culture, architecture, literature, and music.
