What makes Runaljod - Ragnarok by Wardruna notable?

The album debuted at number one on the Norwegian charts and was praised for its immersive soundscapes that evoke ancient Norse themes. It contributed significantly to the resurgence of interest in Nordic folk music and has influenced contemporary artists within the genre. Runaljod - Ragnarok is Wardruna's third studio album, following 2013's Runaljod – Yggdrasill. By this point in their career, the band had solidified their unique approach to blending traditional Nordic folk with contemporary elements, garnering a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

Who is Runaljod - Ragnarok for?

Runaljod - Ragnarok works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Runaljod - Ragnarok?

Runaljod - Ragnarok has 10 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Released 10 years ago this October

Runaljod - Ragnarok

Wardruna · 2016

58 min · 10 tracks · ambient music

Ancient Nordic sounds intertwine with modern instrumentation, creating an atmospheric journey through mysticism and nature.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Tyr — This opening track sets the stage with powerful percussion and haunting vocals, embodying the album's exploration of Norse mythology right from the start.
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UruR — With its expansive sound and deep rhythmic layers, this track captures the essence of transformation and strength, reflecting themes central to Ragnarök.
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Raido — This track features a compelling blend of vocal harmonies and instrumental textures that symbolize journey and movement, pivotal motifs throughout the album.
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Wunjo — Closing the album, Wunjo brings a sense of hope and joy through its uplifting melodies, wrapping up the thematic journey with a reaffirmation of community.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

75 /100

Alpine

Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

The album's atmospheric soundscapes and seamless flow create an immersive experience rooted in ancient themes.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of traditional instruments like the hardingfele and tagelharpa, creating a rich tapestry of sound.
Each track flows seamlessly into the next, with no distinct breaks, enhancing the immersive experience.
The arrangements often build gradually, layering sounds to create a sense of depth and space that evokes natural landscapes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative introspective moments

Where this album fits

Career context: Runaljod - Ragnarok is Wardruna's third studio album, following 2013's Runaljod – Yggdrasill. By this point in their career, the band had solidified their unique approach to blending traditional Nordic folk with contemporary elements, garnering a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.
Stylistic neighbors: Garmarna· Korpiklaani· Omnia

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Tyr 6:28
2 UruR 10:09
3 Isa 7:11
4 MannaR – Drivande 4:07
5 MannaR – Liv 5:11
6 Raido 4:45
7 Pertho 2:16
8 Odal 5:29
9 Wunjo 5:18
10 Runaljod 7:34

What to play next

Listen next

Skald

2018

Go back to

Runaljod - Yggdrasil

2013

Full Wardruna discography Artists like Wardruna

Nordic folk music neofolk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata