Wardruna - Birna (CD)

Wardruna's album Birna (2025) delves deep into Norse mythology and our connection to nature, centering on the bear, which was revered in ancient Scandinavian culture as the guardian of the forest, a human spiritual protector, and a symbol of power. Musically, the work led by Einar Selvik and Lindy-Fay Hella is a hypnotic and cinematic neofolk experience, where authentic ancient Scandinavian instruments—such as goat and willow horns, lyres, moraharpa, as well as drum and bone symphonies—intertwine with ambient nature sounds and powerful choral chants. The album's tracks, including the pre-released singles Hertan (Heart) and Himinndotter (Sky Daughter), depict the bear's life cycle, hibernation, and its symbolic awakening in a world where modern society threatens its living space.