Ethel Cain joins British-Irish composer Robin Carolan for “Wynter Waxeth,” a haunting new song built for the gothic horror film Werwulf. The six-minute recording arrives on November 13, 2026, and it takes a different approach from conventional alternative music. Cain performs the lyrics in Middle English, so the song carries an old-world atmosphere that fits the film’s medieval setting.
The idea began when Carolan introduced Cain to traditional medieval music, prayers and unusual ambient recordings. She became interested in the psaltery, an ancient string instrument, but used it to develop the first musical idea for the song. Carolan later expanded that initial recording into a much bigger cinematic arrangement. Robert Eggers also contributed to the songwriting, helping ensure the language and lyrics matched the period and story of the film.
“Wynter Waxeth” is a slow-building piece, yet it starts with a delicate instrumental arrangement before developing into something darker and more unsettling. Cain’s vocal performance gives it an eerie quality, while Carolan’s production connects it to the wider atmosphere of Werwulf. The record suits late nights and dim rooms, because it rewards patience over immediacy.
Give “Wynter Waxeth” a listen and drop your thoughts in the comment section below.
