My music
Kjell Braaten – Musician, Composer, and Explorer of Ancient Sounds
For over 25 years, Kjell Braaten has been delving into the depths of ancient Nordic music and its connections to other cultures. With a profound passion for historical instruments and traditions, he brings the past into the present through his music.
Braaten has worked with renowned projects such as Wardruna and contributed to the soundtrack of Vikings: Valhalla on Netflix, as well as engaged in numerous international musical collaborations. His solo work is deeply rooted in ancient instruments, such as the Kravik Lyre, Sutton Hoo Lyre, Moraharpa, and Organistrum, yet it is far from mere historical reenactment. His music is a living bridge between past and present, carrying timeless themes that still resonate today.
His latest project moves further into the folk music realm, returning to his roots as a songwriter. By incorporating modern elements like bass guitar and drums alongside ancient instruments, he creates a unique soundscape where history and contemporary music meet.
Braaten’s music invites listeners on a journey—whether it’s through myth, history, or the deep forests of Scandinavia. It is meditative, powerful, and raw, yet always deeply human.
Discover the sound of ancient traditions brought to life!
Videos
Kjell Braaten – Østavind (The breeze from the East)
Much of our culture and music was brought back from the feast.
This is a hymn to those who traveled there and those who came here.
To underline the cultural exchange, I have used only instruments based on accepted finds from Scandinavia, some that origins from the East.
The rhythms and scales are from both cultures.
Kjell Braaten – FRITHR (PEACE)
This is a tribal and raw track with shamanic drums, throat-singing, and old Norse lyrics.
Sometimes mystic, sometimes ecstatic, but still about how you can be the flower that plants seeds of peace in the souls of others.
Kjell Braaten – Frigg
This is a hymn to the Old nordic goddess Frigg. She was the wisest of the gods and the wife of Odin himself.
Frigg was, amongst other things, the goddess for women, birth, and personal grief.
The song is performed on the oldest known Norwegian string instrument, Kravikslyre (ca1600).
Music
Blóta
Bronseplassen
Ferd
