Sjofn

A thoroughly Pagan delight of an album from Finnish ensemble Gjallarhorn who balances the energetic and enthusiastic vocals (and fiddle) of Jenny Wilhelm against a musical structure that draws its heart from Finland and Sweden and its pulse from all over the world; aside from the fiddle, Hardanger fiddle, and viola, the four-piece group utilizes didgeridoo and a staggering variety of percussion. Sjofn is essentially dedicated to the goddess of that name as a way of infusing additional energy into a collection of songs essentially focusing on love and life (though deities of an unsubtle kind do pop in from time to time). The general attitude of Pagan concern (rather than Pagan abandon, as some might assume) is supported quite well by the two videos included on this Enhanced CD, particularly that for "Suvetar" (translated as Goddess of Spring), though the video for "Dejelill Och Langerman" has the local equivalent of Cernunnos/Herne popping up to watch the group performing in a city center. Great stuff, and very, very highly recommended. ~Steven E. McDonald|