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Out of the ancient, untamed wilderness comes Birna, the highly anticipated sixth studio release from the legendary Norwegian ensemble Wardruna:
Slated to drop on January 24, 2025, under Sony Music and By Norse Music, this album promises to be a journey deep into nature’s soul.
In a stunning precursor, Wardruna has unveiled “Himinndotter,” a haunting single complete with an evocative music video. The song serves as a sonic quest, a spiritual calling for our long-lost sister of the woods. Through his eternal dialogue with nature, mastermind Einar Selvik seeks the voice of the bear, explaining, “Himinndotter (Sky-daughter) is part of a six-song journey into the mythos of the bear, a celestial being at its core.” The track features the ethereal harmonies of the Norwegian choir Koret Artemis, adding depth to the mysticism.
The video, shot in the breathtaking landscapes of Rondane National Park, continues Wardruna’s creative partnership with director Tuukka Koski. Produced by Breakfast Helsinki and Ragnarok Film, it delivers a visual feast worthy of the band’s mythic soundscapes.
At the heart of Birna lies the she-bear, the guardian of the forest, driven into the shadows by modern society. As her hibernation deepens, the forest fades, yearning for its shepherd to return. Wardruna calls her back, with the album’s pulse mirroring the bear’s heartbeat, a primal rhythm of nine beats per minute. This ancient pulse drives Einar Selvik’s creative force, reminding us of the cyclical ties between humanity and the natural world.
Drawing from ancient instruments and wisdom, yet layered with modern soundscapes, Birna offers a profound message: we are not above nature—we are part of it. The album connects us to forgotten truths, not for nostalgia’s sake, but to awaken lost insights crucial for our future.
Accompanying the new album is Wardruna’s epic live recording from the equinox performance at the world-renowned Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens. Marking the climactic end of their Kvitravn world tour, the two-hour show, now captured for eternity, features fan favorites like Helvegen, Kvitravn, Heimta Thurs, and Lyfjaberg - the latter reappearing in Birna.
Filmed by Kolibri Media, the Live at the Acropolis DVD and Blu-Ray offers an immersive experience, including exclusive interviews and intimate moments from their meet-and-greet at Underflow Record Store.
Wardruna continues to transcend the boundaries of time, culture, and nature, pulling listeners deep into the heart of their primal call.
Birna Tracklist:
1. Hertan
2. Birna
3. Ljos til Jord
4. Dvaledraumar
5. Jord til Ljos
6. Himinndotter
7. Hibjørnen
8. Skuggehesten
9. Tretale
10. Lyfjaberg
Birna was written and recorded between 2021 and 2024.
Music by Einar Selvik and Lindy-Fay Hella.
With lyrics by Einar Selvik.
Birna is performed by Einar Selvik, Lindy-Fay Hella, Eilif Gundersen, HC Dalgaard, Sondre Veland, John Stenersen, Arne Sandvoll.
Wardruna Australian Tour Dates:
In support of the new album, Wardruna will embark on an extensive world tour starting in October at Red Rocks in Colorado. It will take in North and South America, Europe, the UK and Iceland and will see Wardruna in Australia and New Zealand for the very first time in January 2025.
Thursday, January 23: Melbourne, Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Saturday, January 25: Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Monday, January 27: Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
Thursday, January 30: Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland NZ
