Langsomt Mot Nord – Hildring

Origo Sound's fourth release was Hildring of the project Langsomt Mot Nord (Slowly Towards North). This was the group's third album, and probably the most atypical CD on the Origo label. Hildring unites tradition and innovation, and it draws lines from the Norwegian tonal language to rock and modern soundscapes and builds a bridge between musical traditions from the past and the present. The CD takes you on a journey through colorful and atmospheric soundscapes. Langsomt Mot Nord is Ola Snortheim, who at Hildring has especially received help from Espen Beranek Holm. In addition, they have used a number of guest musicians.


Compared with the two previous releases, Hildring has a much clearer and stronger acoustic character. At Hildring we also find old recordings with father Olav Snortheim on langeleik, as on the opening song Vårvons Pris. Brynhild is reminiscent of Geir Bøhren and Bent Åserud's film music, while Eira is actually an Irish folk melody. Pillarguri is peculiar - sounds almost like a circus melody with a melancholy touch. On the title track, the group moves in a more pop-like landscape, and Sval Vidde is fluid and visual with inventive synth effects and an appropriate title. Rimfrost is varied and rough in expression, while Troll has a suitable and fascinating melody line. The latest tune is Brudemarsj Frå Vågå, the traditional bridal march everyone knows, here in a more developed version.


Langsomt Mot Nord was to the highest degree an original and innovative music project. Unfortunately, Hildring did not turn out to be the commercial success Snortheim and Holm had hoped for, and Hildring marked the end of the group's 6-year history. Nevertheless, Harald Lervik dreams of releasing Hildring again, so that more people can take part in the musical vision of Langsomt Mot Nord.


Jon Aanensen, 2004