Wardruna is a Norwegian music group formed in 2003 dedicated to creating musical renditions of ancient Norse and Nordic traditions. The name Wardruna means "the guardian of secrets" or "she who whispers."
Overview
The group was formed by Einar Selvik, Lindy-Fay Hella, and former member Gaahl (born Kristian Eyvind Espedal). They use a broad selection of both traditional and historical Nordic instruments. Non-traditional instruments and other sources of sound such as trees, stones, bones, water, and fire are used to enhance the nature of the theme being "portrayed" in each case. Research and serious study form an important foundation of their music, but their ultimate intention is not to copy or recreate music from any specific time period. They take thoughts, tools, and methods from the past and use them to create new music which builds on the contemporary as well as the ancient.
The band has released five full-length albums. The first three albums are based on Norse runes. These three albums make up the Runaljod trilogy. Each of the albums is focused around eight of the twenty-four Proto-Norse runes, more commonly known as the Elder Futhark. The runes are interpreted on their own premises, although the band places their various qualities in the wider context of various ancient Nordic traditions relating to nature and human and spiritual relations. The band's concept and goal is the sowing of new seeds and strengthening old roots in Nordic culture.
The fourth album, Skald, is based on the sayings of Odin from the Völuspá in the Edda and other old Norse sources. Skald was recorded live in the studio with the intention of capturing the raw and uncompromising energy of a live performance rather than aiming for a flawless and polished expression. It set out to give voice to the ancient craft that once lay at the heart of Norse oral traditions.
Wardruna's fifth full-length album, Kvitravn (meaning White-Raven), musically continues where the Runaljod trilogy left off. Yet it marks a distinct evolution in their sound. The album features a broad selection of both traditional and historical instruments. The record also features guest appearances spearheaded by Kirsten Bråten Berg. The songs discuss Northern sorcery, spirit-animals, shadows, nature and animism, the wisdom and meaning of certain myths, various Norse spiritual concepts, and the relation between sage and songs.[1]
In Vikings
In 2014 Selvik announced one the group's official Facebook page that they would take part in composing the score for Season 2 of Vikings along with Trevor Morris. Selvik later appeared as an actor on the show.[2]
Members
- Einar Selvik: Vocals, Taglharpa, Kravik-lyre, Bukkehorn
- Lindy-Fay Hella: Vocals
- Arne Sandvoll: percussion, backing vocals
- Eilif Gundersen: Bukkehorn, Lur, Flute, backing vocals
- HC Dalgaard: Drums, percussion, backing vocals
- John Stenersen: Mora-harp
Discography
- Runaljod – Gap Var Ginnunga (2009, Indie Recordings/Fimbulljóð Productions)
- Runaljod - Yggdrasil (2013, Indie Recordings/Fimbulljóð Productions)
- Runaljod - Ragnarok (2016, Indie Recordings/By Norse Music)
- Skald (2018, Indie Recordings/By Norse Music)
- Kvitravn (2021, Columbia Records)
Singles
- Lyfjaberg (2020)
Trivia
- Thanks in part to the success of Vikings, the band's third album Runaljod - Ragnarok debuted at number one on Billboard's World Albums chart.[2]
- In August 2017, Wardruna headlined the twentieth Mėnuo Juodaragis music festival in Dūburys Lake, Lithuania.[2]
- In early 2018, Wardruna went on their first tour of North America.[2]