Ivar Bjørnson & Einar Selvik

# Ivar Bjørnson & Einar Selvik

Ivar Bjørnson, guitarist and composer from Norwegian metal pioneers ENSLAVED, and Einar Selvik, the visionary behind atmospheric project WARDRUNA, unite under the moniker SKUGGSJÁ to create a distinctive fusion of ancient Norse instrumentation and modern sonic textures. The project seamlessly blends harsh metal guitars with traditional Scandinavian instruments, crafting an intricate, immersive soundscape that draws inspiration from Viking-era aesthetics without relying on pastiche.

Originally conceived as a commissioned work performed at the 2014 Eidsivablot festival, SKUGGSJÁ evolved into a full studio project that expands both artists' sonic vocabularies. The collaboration demonstrates how metal's raw energy and the delicate complexity of historical instruments can enhance one another, creating richly layered compositions that incorporate Norse poetry and language. Through SKUGGSJÁ, Bjørnson and Selvik have established a compelling template for bridging contemporary production with pre-industrial musical traditions, contributing a unique voice to the broader landscape of experimental and atmospheric music.