Album Review: Adventsdrøm by Jardar Johansen – A Cozy Slice of Norwegian Christmas Magic
Alright, let’s talk about Adventsdrøm by Jardar Johansen. Released back in 2012 on Finito Bacalao Records, this album is like a warm cup of cocoa for your ears—Norwegian-style. It blends pop, folk, world music, country, and even some Christian vibes into one big holiday hug. If you’re into Christmas tunes but want something that feels more personal than those overplayed mall classics, this might just be your jam.
The tracklist has all the cozy feels, mixing traditional carols with original songs in both English and Norwegian. There are repeats here and there (like "I'll Be Home For Christmas" showing up twice), but honestly? That kinda works. It's like hearing an old friend tell the same story again—it grows on ya.
Two tracks really stuck with me: “Walking In The Air” and “Svolværgutt.” Let me break it down.
First off, “Walking In The Air.” You’ve probably heard versions of this before—it’s not exactly new material—but Jardar gives it his own spin. His voice has this soft, almost whispery quality that makes it feel intimate, like he’s singing just to you. And when the melody kicks in, it’s got this dreamy vibe that takes you somewhere else entirely. Like, I could totally picture myself floating above snow-covered mountains while listening to it. Pretty magical stuff.
Then there’s “Svolværgutt,” which stands out because, well, how often do you hear a Christmas song about trolls? This one leans heavily into Norwegian folklore, and it’s quirky as heck. The lyrics paint this vivid picture of these mythical creatures celebrating the season their own way. It’s playful, slightly eerie, and super unique. Plus, the instrumentation has this rustic, earthy feel that fits perfectly with the theme. Honestly, it’s the kind of track that reminds you why folk music still matters—it tells stories that stick with you long after the music stops.
Now, don’t get me wrong—this isn’t gonna be everyone’s cup of tea. Some folks might find the pacing a bit slow or wish there was more variety between tracks. But if you dig heartfelt, understated music that lets the lyrics shine, you’ll probably dig this.
Here’s the thing though—at its core, Adventsdrøm feels less like an album and more like sitting around a fire with friends, sharing stories and songs. It’s imperfect in places, sure, but maybe that’s what makes it so charming. By the time you hit “Julefred” at the end, you’re left with this weird sense of calm, like everything’s gonna be okay—even if life outside feels chaotic.
Oh, and random thought: I bet Jardar would crush it at karaoke. Just saying.
