Epic traditional folk songs and mystical auras were what we experienced on “Ansur : Urkraft” (2017), Byrdi’s outstanding last album. Describing it simply as “Scandinavian nature music” is in fact an epic understatement. “Avantgarde Norse folk music”, which is the description on their social media page, seems closer to the mark for “Ansur : Urkraft”. So, there was much to look forward to from “Byrjing” (Beginning), the Norwegian trio’s third album release.
The album starts off with a hypnotic chant. It gets us in the mood. The harmonies are amazing. “Solsnu” is mystical. The rhythm and unique sound from the jaw harp immediately capture our attention. The harmonies and soft infusion of traditional instruments continue on “Geirodd”. The gentle majesty suggests we have been taken to a higher place. It’s as if we have been invited to a Norwegian ceremony. We are in nature. Calmness runs through it. “Eg” is similarly hypnotising. It’s not going to send your blood racing for sure. As a mystical experience, it is sublime. As a listening experience, I’m not so sure. The bar was raised for me with “Stein på Stein”
(Stone by Stone) thanks to the acoustic melody reflecting gentle melancholy alongside the simple and beautiful folk harmonisation. The sounds of the flute, hand drum and jaw harp then enhance the gently majestic “Huldre”. The instruments add colour as if we are in a forest rich in vegetation and birdlife. It’s very atmospheric. Acapella is at the fore on the haunting and sad “Heim” (Home). Instrumental intervention is minimal. An acoustic guitar plays a melancholic tune in keeping with the regal harmonies and spoken word. The guitar and harmonies are then enhanced by the flute on the song “Byrdi” (Burden). It’s a great balance, as the flute represent, in my mind at least, birds fluttering in the gentle outdoor breeze. Without this, it’s as if the song is from inside a church. As the title suggests, the song is heavy-hearted, which is a mood that runs through the whole work. The final three minutes of serene sadness is played out as the title song. So, at the end is the beginning.
It’s clear that this is a thoughtful and personal journey. Being in Norwegian, a language I don’t speak, means that I cannot comment on the words but I can comment on the sombre and melancholic mood of this album. Musically it’s back to basics here for Byrdi on “Byrjing”. Again, describing it as “Scandinavian nature music” doesn’t do it justice as the power is in the haunting and mystical melody and atmosphere. For me when the instrumentals were introduced, the scene became more colourful whilst without them the songs became isolatingly introspective and so drifted away from me a little. If you’re looking for something calming and serene, but equally gloomy, you don’t need to look any further than “Byrjing”.
(7.5/10 Andrew Doherty)
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