Ethel Cain teams up with British-Irish composer Robin Carolan on “Wynter Waxeth,” a haunting new song created for the upcoming gothic horror film Werwulf, directed by Robert Eggers.

Released on November 13, 2026, the six-minute recording takes a different approach from conventional alternative music. Ethel Cain performs the lyrics in Middle English, giving the song an old-world atmosphere that fits the film’s medieval setting.

The idea behind the recording began when Carolan introduced Cain to traditional medieval music, prayers and unusual ambient recordings. She became interested in the psaltery, an ancient string instrument, and 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 that the language and lyrics matched the period and story of the film.

The result is a slow-building piece that 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.

For Ethel Cain, the release is particularly meaningful because she has previously expressed her interest in contributing to horror film soundtracks. Working with Eggers and Carolan gives her an opportunity to explore that creative interest.

Carolan has previously composed music for Eggers’ films The Northman and Nosferatu. His work on Werwulf continues that creative partnership.

“Wynter Waxeth” is released through Back Lot Music, with the complete film soundtrack scheduled for December 18, 2026. A limited-edition vinyl release pairing the song with “Cold Moone” is also scheduled for January 29, 2027.

Song Details:

– Artist: Ethel Cain & Robin Carolan
– Title: Wynter Waxeth
– Film: Werwulf
– Songwriters: Ethel Cain, Robin Carolan & Robert Eggers
– Producers: Ethel Cain & Robin Carolan
– Release date: November 13, 2026
– Duration: Approximately 6 minutes
– Record label: Back Lot Music
– Genre: Gothic Folk / Film Soundtrack

Listen to “Wynter Waxeth” by Ethel Cain and Robin Carolan and share your thoughts on this haunting collaboration.