Joining forces to form the illusive Skuggsjá, Enslaved’s Ivar Bjørnson and Wardruna’s Einar Selvik are set to unveil their collaborative effort of the same name. Undeniable that both composers are rulers of theie musical kingdoms when coming together the pair create a tangible, earthed soundtrack. However will the marriage of the two’s creative force form their own creative niche?
[tracklist]
- Ull Kjem
- Skuggsjá
- Makta Og Vanaera (I All Tid)
- Tore Hund
- Rop Fra Roynda – Maelt Fra Minne
- Skuggeslatten
- Kvervandi
- Vitkispa
- Bon Om Ending – Bon Om Byrjing
- Ull Gjekk
[/tracklist][details]
[length]58:00[/length]
[record_label]Season of Mist[/record_label]
[release_date]March 11th 2016[/release_date]
[/details]
For those with shorter attention spans be wary, opening of “Ull Kjem” conjures an atmosphere that instantly transports the listener adrift to the more arcane of plains. Anchored by its sincere sense of antiquity yet retaining a ether of spirituality creates for an interesting juxtaposition. Followed by rustic flutes on title track “Skuggsjá” before the inauspicious tones ensure that indicate for full appreciation a listen to the record will necessitate full attention.
With neither presence of Bjørson or Selvik overshadowing the pair work well together understanding the others contributions to enhance the delivery of the two. The incredible long winded “Rop Fra Roynda – Maelt Fra Minne” sees the focus shift back to the more Celtic sections. Often building upon a simple melody the record works on many levels. Creating a pastoral atmosphere instantly transporting the listener into a haze of the medieval. Whereas the more straightforward sections “Skuggeslatten” leans more towards the Enslaved sphere of influence. Chunky guitar lines give way to more emotional trumpets in the latter section of the instrumental.
Taking into account space in the album the band are understanding of the flow of each composition. Bringing shorter piece “Tore Hund” after the lengthy introduction of “Makata Og Vanaera (I All Tid)” makes for a good balance. With its lengthy introduction creating a mantra like atmosphere before at last dropping out to reveal arid guitar and spoken word only to rip straight back into the maelstrom when distortion is kicked into high gear. Not understanding the Norwegian lyrics their delivery is very much paramount from the spoken word to the appearance of Grutle Kjellson delivering his signature frost bitten bark. Created as an idea for a single piece Skuggsjá very much works as a standalone piece. Dipping into the likes of “Vitkispa” would lessen the impact of the album dispelling atmosphere.
Appearing one last time before taking its leave the ten minute “Bon Om Ending – Bon Om Byrjing” plays with the soft cleans sections with mystical runic lead lines. Very much a minimalist album Skuggsjá have simultaneously created grand compositions, with the use of simplistic instruments. Maturing as the album progresses each track understands it’s place both for want of space and situation. Interpreted in limitless valences, Skuggsjá have created a palpable record working on multiple musical platforms mirroring not only their respective bands but a journey into the mystical search of the abstract soul.
[verdict]Yes[/verdict]
[why]Skuggsjá may well be made up of two influential artists but creates its own identity. Rooted in tradition the record is an organic progressive journey floating above the plains of classification Skuggsjá is a brilliant standalone piece.[/why]
If you like what you read / heard then you can pick up Skuggsjá here!
