From the Norwegian landscapes, where pristine fjords meet vast, endless skies, emerges an equally expansive sound—Scandinavia’s post-rock titans, SPURV, have returned with ‘Brefjære’, a symphonic odyssey that captures the raw spirit of nature itself.
Oslo’s SPURV have been pillars in the post-rock scene since 2011. Known for their massive live presence, they’ve crafted albums that resonate far beyond Norway’s borders. Their early projects, notably “Skarntyde” and the globally acclaimed “Myra”, served as stepping stones, culminating in their monumental 2023 release.
‘Brefjære‘, out now via Berlin’s Pelagic Records, is more than just music—it’s a storytelling journey.
Principal songwriter, Gustav Jørgen Pedersen, channeling inspiration from the stark beauty of Trømso, paints a sonic canvas mirroring the formidable mountains sculpted by time and the tenacious resilience of life thriving against the odds.
This album, a conversation between nature’s old souls and its newest participants, feels as vast and infinite as the landscapes it was born from.
Tracks like ‘En brennende vogn over jordet’ and ‘Udråpene‘ masterfully meld anthemic orchestral waves with SPURV’s signature post-rock heft. Moreover, collaborations with Grammy-winner Inger Hannisdal and a myriad of other artists, including a 14-voice choir, elevate the album’s depth and breadth.
The heart of this expansive album, ‘Under himmelhvelvingen’, stands out as a tranquil contemplation amid the maelstrom, it’s a reflection on existence, teetering between the ephemeral and the eternal.
As Petersen explains, it represents “the contrast between permanence and ephemerality.” Such profound insights peppered throughout the album make ‘Brefjære’ not just an auditory experience, but an existential exploration.
SPURV’s mastery lies in their ability to harness the raw power of over 25 musicians, directing them with purpose and precision. Their evolution over a decade is evident; from their early days in Norway to their international acclaim, they’ve grown from mere musicians to post-rock maestros.
With ‘Brefjære‘, SPURV invites listeners to join them on a journey—a trek through the mountains and valleys of the soul, and an exploration of life’s vast and intricate soundscapes.
And as Petersen suggests, while this might be a significant milestone for the band, it’s but one peak in a range of musical mountains they intend to scale. As SPURV sets forth on this new chapter, it’s clear the world will be keenly tuning in, eager to join them on their next adventure.
Listen, embark, and explore ‘Brefjære’ with SPURV—available now on Pelagic Records.
