In 2022, a year after the release of Kvitravn and as a prelude to the forthcoming live dates, Wardruna are presenting Kvitravn – First Flight of the White Raven - a new release on 2xLP, 2xCD and digital, captured from their lauded, boundary-pushing virtual live-streamed experience First Flight of the White Raven of March 26th 2021, and the original Kvitravn studio album of 2021 on the 2xCD and digital versions.
This new release captures their special set list consisting of new songs from Kvitravn and fan favourites from across their discography. The 2xCD and digital release features the full Kvitravn – First Flight of the White Raven audio live experience from the stream, newly mastered for this release plus a CD containing Kvitravn, together with a new reworked layout featuring the iconic raven feathers – now in white. The Kvitravn – First Flight of the White Raven Live 2xLP features the audio live experience from the stream, newly mastered for this release!
Released on January 22nd 2021, Wardruna 5th studio album “Kvitravn” scored numerous international chart entries, such as #1 in Austria, #1 in Canada (World Music), #2 in Germany, #2 in Switzerland, #3 in USA (Americana/Folk), #8 in Poland, #11 in Norway and #12 in Sweden, among many more.
Following an intensive period in the studio, Kvitravn musically continues where the Runaljod trilogy left off, yet it marks a distinct evolution in Wardruna's unique sound. In a rich musical tapestry, Wardruna use a broad selection of both traditional and historical instruments such as Kravik-lyre, Trossingen-lyre, Taglharpa, Sootharp, Langeleik, Crwth, Goat- horn, Lur, Bronze-lur, flute, Moraharpa, and the record also features guest appearances by a small group of prominent traditional singers, spearheaded by Kirsten Bråten Berg, one of the most important custodians of Norwegian traditional song. Throughout eleven songs, Kvitravn discusses Northern sorcery, spirit-animals, shadows, nature and animism, the wisdom and meanings of certain myths, various Norse spiritual concepts, and the relation between sage and songs.
Wardruna have carved a rich, polyphonic and dramatic musical landscape that honours the ancient past without gimmick, whilst simultaneously illuminating meaningful expressions of Norse tradition through intrinsically detailed contemporary composition. Beyond genre, theirs is a sound that must be truly experienced.
