Most of the members of THRÄNENKIND are vegan and/or straight edge and share interests in the ideas of green anarchism, civilization critic and left-wing politics. The lyrics of their songs broach the issues of the relationship between humanity and nature, interpersonal relations, human society, green anarchism and the endless longing for freedom.
The band name could be translated as "child of tears" and was chosen as contrast to the "grim" and "cliché" names in black metal. The bandmembers are fascinated by the name's ambiguity, which can be discovered within their multilayered sound.

Having released a demo (2008) and a split-CD with Heretoir, “The Elk” is the first full-length for the quintet. The earlier recordings had more (post) black metal and shoegaze influences, while their LIFEFORCE RECORDS debut album contains touches of crust and hardcore punk. But “The Elk” is offering also five formidable instrumental post rock songs with a melancholic yet beautiful atmosphere, too. Some of the songs are slow and profound. Others are fast and unfold the ruthless power of (post) black metal. Just like Profane Existence Magazine wrote: “THRÄNENKIND is all about atmosphere, not blazing speed or brutality. They remind me a bit of WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM without the black metal, but have a lot in common with CELESTIIAL, a “woodland doom” band from the Mid-Western U.S.” “The Elk” is a concept album telling the story of two siblings, who are on a roadtrip to their father’s funeral. They are faced with meeting old friends and memories, tragedy, hope, death and a mysterious "stranger". The focus of interest: pure emotion and intense impressions. The heart takes control...