La Oss Gå Like Til Betlehem by Asbjorn Arntsen: A Folk Odyssey That Punches You in the Soul
Alright, buckle up, because this album is like a punch to the gut—but one of those weird punches that kinda makes you feel alive. La Oss Gå Like Til Betlehem (yeah, try saying that five times fast) dropped in 1986 from Norway’s own Asbjorn Arntsen under Fablos Records. It’s labeled as folk, world, and country, but honestly? This thing defies boxes like a drunk trying to find his keys at 3 AM.
First off, let me hit you with two tracks that stuck in my brain like gum on a shoe: "Kongelig Gloria" and "Judiths Sang." “Kongelig Gloria” kicks things off like a Viking war horn blaring through foggy fjords—raw, haunting, and dripping with ancient vibes. The melody feels like it’s been around forever, yet somehow it still sounds fresh. You can almost picture Arntsen sitting by some fire, strumming away while mumbling cryptic lyrics about kings and glory. It’s messy, imperfect, and totally unforgettable.
Then there’s “Judiths Sang,” which flips the script entirely. Where “Gloria” hits hard, this track sneaks up on you like an alley cat. It’s softer, slower, but don’t mistake that for weakness—it’ll rip your heart out if you’re not careful. There’s something so achingly human about it, like Judith herself is whispering her story right into your ear. By the time the last note fades, you're left staring into space wondering what just happened.
The rest of the album isn’t slouching either. Tracks like “Morgenstjernen” and “Engledans” keep the momentum rolling with their mix of traditional folk instruments and raw vocals. But here’s the kicker—it doesn’t feel polished or overproduced. Nope, this is the real deal, warts and all. And honestly? That’s what makes it work. Every crackle, every offbeat note adds character. It's like listening to someone spill their guts without caring how pretty it sounds.
Now, I gotta say, reviewing this record feels weirdly personal. Maybe it’s because Arntsen seems less like a musician and more like a dude who stumbled onto a stage after years of wandering snowy hillsides. He’s got stories to tell, dammit, and he ain’t gonna sugarcoat ‘em.
So yeah, La Oss Gå Like Til Betlehem might not be everyone’s cup of aquavit, but if you’ve got even half a soul, you’ll walk away changed. Or maybe just confused. Either way, it sticks with you.
Oh, and here’s the twist: After listening to this album three times in a row, I started craving lutefisk. Go figure.
