Wardruna, the Norwegian outfit known for their evocative, immersive music rooted in Norse history and nature, have released a live video for “Lyfjaberg" (Live At The Acropolis), from the band’s forthcoming concert film, Live At The Acropolis (available on DVD/Blu-Ray on January 24).
Each of Wardruna’s performances bridges the ancient and the elemental, resonating with audiences in a profoundly human and natural way, and this recording of "Lyfjaberg" serves as a powerful example of that connection. Filmed at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, at the Acropolis in Athens during the autumn equinox on September 21, 2023, the forthcoming concert film captures a once-in-a-lifetime performances.
The song is featured on the Einar Selvik-helmed band’s forthcoming album, Birna (January 24, Sony Music/By Norse Music). Birna was written and recorded over three years, with music by Selvik and longtime collaborator/vocalist Linda-Fay Hella, and lyrics solely by Selvik. Performers on the album include Eilif Gundersen (bukkehorn, lur, flute, backing vocals), HC Dalgaard (drums, percussion, backing vocals), Sondre Veland (percussion, backing vocals), John Stenersen (mora-harp) and Arne Sandvoll (percussion, backing vocals).
Birna and Live At The Acropolis pre-orders are available here, with the new album available on limited-edition vinyl, CD and digitally.
Birna cover, photo by Tuukka Koski with artwork by Øivind A. Myksvoll.
Birna tracklisting:
"Hertan"
"Birna"
"Ljos til Jord"
"Dvaledraumar"
"Jord til Ljos"
"Himinndotter"
"Hibjørnen"
"Skuggehesten"
"Tretale"
"Lyfjaberg"
"Hibjørnen" video:
“Himinndotter” video:
"Hertan" video:
"Lyfjaberg" video:
From the Runaljod album trilogy (2009, 2013, 2016), exploring old Norse myths, traditions, and language through the 24 proto-Norse runes, the sound of Wardruna evolved and blended into the stripped down, acoustic compositions on Skald (2018). The group’s most recent album, Kvitravn (White-Raven) (2021), explored Northern sorcery, spirit-animals, animism, and the act of creation – the ever-interchanging prolific relationship between the skaldic poet and nature itself. The record charted in 13 countries, including #1 in Canada and Austria, and #2 in Germany. Wardruna has performed at multiple manmade historical locations including Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Acropolis, Bulgaria’s Ancient Theater of Philipoppolis, as well as locations set amidst natural wonders such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. Alongside his work with Wardruna, Einar Selvik has composed music for large tv and game productions such as “Vikings” and “Assassin’s Creed – Valhalla,” he gives tutorials and lectures on Old Norse literature, musicology, instruments and philosophy, and he has worked with renowned artists such as Mari Boine, Tina Guo, Matoma and Eivør, including appearances on Norwegian, Danish and Polish national television.
