Album Review: The Hirsch Effekt – Der Brauch (Long Branch Records)

Progressive metal outfit The Hirsch Effekt are back with their brand-new album, ‘Der Brauch’. Out on January 30th, 2026, via Long Branch Records.

One of the most daring progressive metal bands to exist today, there should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that a new record from The Hirsch Effekt will stand out for a multitude of reasons, some of which will appeal, some of which definitely won’t, and all of which will intrigue and impress. You don’t have to love, or even like progressive metal to take something away from this album, such is the appealing expressive nature of what is on offer.

It’s a unique journey, one that starts in subtle fashion but expands in dramatic and powerful ways. The title track is filled with vibrant guitar sounds, some of the most eccentric vocals, and bizarre shifts that make it very special. It sets the scene and tells listeners to expect to be challenged and that’s never a bad thing. Especially as, for all its complexities, it is still a metal record and that adds an exciting layer of intensity.

Though, I do think it’s how The Hirsch Effekt switch styles effortlessly, how they boldly use melody, and how the album’s musical identity is clear, is what really makes the difference. Continuing to deliver substantial listens like Der Faden and Das Seil that have a certain indescribability to them. Rest assured though, The Hirsch Effekt make a mind-blowing impact.

I find Brauch Reprise such a relaxing piece of music, around two minutes of soft melodies playing in tranquil fashion. The perfect palette cleanser as the following Der Doppelgänger proves to be the most challenging listen yet. Not only is it highly melodic, but it’s highly dramatic, filled with cinematic ambience, cleverly expanding, bit by bit, leading to a grin-inducing blast of thrash speed and heaviness near the end. I ended up loving this one, and I think you will too.

I also really dig what the The Hirsch Effekt do with Die Lüge and Die Brücke too. Showcasing even more expression, even more creativity, and even more unforgettable elements that are neither one thing nor the other, as far as genre-placement goes. On the one hand, it’s maddening, but on the other, there is accessibility, often when they heavy things up. The variety on show continues to be the driving force of the record, after, all who doesn’t want to hear what comes next?

How about Das Nachsehen? The Hirsch Effekt expertly navigating us through a stormy showcase of potent melodies, cinematic drama, chaotic and choppy heaviness, and progressively post tinged. Or how about Die Heimkehr? A subtle and soft closer that seems to be easing the listener out of the album mindset, until the last minute or so explodes in grandiose fashion.

Both utterly brilliant, even while being utterly perplexing, but that is just The Hirsch Effekt in general. Although I think it’s fair to say that this is their most eccentric and expressive work to date. Progressive metal with heart and soul.

The Hirsch Effekt – Der Brauch Track Listing:

1. Der Brauch
2. Der Faden
3. Das Seil
4. Brauch Reprise
5. Der Doppelgänger
6. Die Lüge
7. Die Brücke
8. Das Nachsehen
9. Die Heimkehr

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