Wardruna is a Norwegian band formed in 2003 by Einar Selvik and Gaahl, both formerly of Gorgoroth. The two later added Lindy Fay Hella as backing vocals. Gaahl left the band in 2015. The project was solely started to bring forth cultural and esoteric Norse traditions through music. Selvik wanted a true representation for Norse traditions and used traditional Nordic instruments to make it authentic. Selvik and Hella chose historical instruments that range from the primitive frame deer-hide drum, flute, kraviklyr, tagelharpe, mouth harp, goatshorn, and the lur. Wardruna was a key part of the History Channels television series, VIKINGS, which naturally brought their music to wider audiences all around the world.
Wardruna has released five full-length albums, the first three of which are based on the Norse Runes, and the fourth one based on Odin’s recitations of Vovspa and other older Norse mythologies. The music is sung in Norwegian, Old Norse, and Proto-Norse. They were even commissioned by the Norwegian government to compose and perform a musical work with the band Enslaved to mark the 200th anniversary of the Norwegian Constitution in 2014.
Even the ‘rona wasn’t strong enough to keep Wardruna down! Originally slated to happen in October of 2020, this highly anticipated show was rescheduled several times before playing to a sold out crowd at The Mesa Performing Arts Center, November 5th, 2022. This was my first time at the venue, and I have to say it was pretty swanky compared to what I am used to. Mainly shooting at shitty dive bars and smaller local venues, I was surprised to learn the floors aren’t supposed to be sticky and there are supposed to be doors on restroom stalls. The Mesa Performing Arts Center is as massive as it is gorgeous! The staff there was incredibly helpful and the question everyone wants answered is, yes, the bathrooms are exquisite and clean. As I walked into the venue one of the first things I noticed was a large number of Wardruna fans dressed up in historic Norwegian attire. These fans took their looks very seriously and made sure to use traditional pieces like tunics, trousers, and cloaks made of historic fabrics and textiles.
It was just after 8:30 when Wardruna made their way onto the stage. If you’ve seen Wardruna before, then you know you’re in for a spiritual Norse awakening. If you’ve never seen them before, you’ll find out quickly that their music takes you on a journey that will leave you feeling ‘I fred’ (at peace). When Einar hits that deer hide drum, your whole body feels it, right down to your bones! Their music is elegant but also powerful enough for the Norse gods to take notice. Both Einar and Lindy are incredible singers. I was thoroughly blown away by their vocal ranges.
A couple of songs into their set, all I could think of was picking up the famous sword, Dainsleif, and riding into battle with it. Obviously, I wouldn’t have lasted long in any battle, but hey, one can dream. This was a particularly beautiful experience as my ancestors are from Oslo, Norway. Their poetic use of the languages and traditional instruments is a feast for the ears and soul. The combination of the ceremonial costuming along with the masterful musicianship transported me right to the rolling hills of Jell Mound, in Gjellestad, Norway.
Set list
