WARDRUNA – Birna

(By Norse Music / Sony Music)

Rating: 8.0

Birna is the sixth full-length from Wardruna, a moving experience from the Norwegian tribe. Their newest opus masterfully crafts ambient folk with a meditative, rumbling force that awakens a sleeping giant.

“Birna” is the she-bear in Old Norse and “is a work of art dedicated to the warden of the forest, nature’s caretaker, and her battles here on earth.” The music has a cinematic feel to it, allowing listeners to use their imagination to paint a scene and interpret the movements and emotions conveyed with the instruments.

Main composer Einar Selvik illustrates the sheer magnitude and brilliant majesty of the Bear as Birna navigates through the seasons and the processes of life, hibernation, and rebirth. It all comes to a head in the 15-minute, meditative trance of “Dvaledraumar” which utilizes a descending chime that mimics the breathing cycle and descent into deep hibernation. It’s a mesmerizing hymn that opens to “Jord til ljos” and Lindy-Fay Hella’s enchanting vocals combined with Selvik’s husky tone brings renewed life and spirit.

The more traditional of songs is the acoustic folk of “Hibjørnen”, where gentle guitar leads Selvik’s vocals as the Bear is alive and aware of its surroundings. Each composition is meaningful and the 66 minute run time is earned.

Take note of the tribal gallop and snarling chants in “Skuggehesten”, the forest march melody of dark and light in “Tretale”, and the healing, redemptive nature of closer “Lyfjaberg”.

Feel the spirit and muscle of the Bear in Birna – a fantastic, powerful movement of nature and its incredible wonders.

Release date: January 24th, 2025

Musicians:

• Einar Selvik / Vocals
• Linda-Fay Hella / Vocals
• Eilif Gundersen
• HC Dalgaard
• Sondre Veland
• John Stenersen
• Arne Sandvoll