Wardruna: Birna

Wardruna is the brainchild of Einar Selvik. A former member of blasphemous black metal act Gorgoroth, Einar abandoned his original musical direction and has been focusing his efforts for a number of years on music that preserves and promotes Norwegian ancestral culture. Wardruna is a key vehicle for this cause, although he has also written music for the TV show "Vikings" and takes part in various Norse cultural events.

There are far more bands that play this niche Norse music style than you might imagine, but I've always considered Wardruna to be the best exponent. World music? Folk Music? Ambient? Soundtrack? Whatever you call it, Wardruna do it particularly well. Birna (translates to she-bear in old Norse) is Wardruna’s 7th album release.

The main contributors on this album are Einar Selvik and Lindy-Fay Hella but they are accompanied by a group of like minded musicians. They use a range of instruments, vocal styles, and language from ancient times, mixed with modern atmospheric soundscapes and recorded sounds from nature to craft the pieces on the album. The resulting music is very cinematic and emotive.

The album starts with the sound of a beating heart and from this first moment to the last, the album takes you on a vivid trip to ancient, spiritual times.

This isn't the sort of album I'd typically reach for, however, it's hard not to be captivated once you sit down and press play. The album has made an immediate impression on me, and whilst I'm unsure what the ideal setting is to listen to this sort of music I've found it to be a great companion for long drives. The album isn't a compact listen, but I'd recommend that you make time for it. You will want to take it all in in one sitting to get the full impact of what Wardruna has created with Birna.

Track list:
1. Hertan
2. Birna
3. Ljos til Jord
4. Dvaledraumar
5. Jord til Ljos
6. Himinndotter
7. Hibjørnen
8. Skuggehesten
9. Tretale
10. Lyfjaberg

Added: January 11th 2025
Reviewer: Chris Reid
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 201
Language: english

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