Kaunan

Kaunan


The Nordic-folk trio KAUNAN breathes new life into old traditional Scandinavian music and re-awakens the ancient realms of pre-Christian folklore by using very old songs and tunes, odd scales, folk instruments like kontrabasharpa, hurdy-gurdy, various lutes, lyre, bagpipes and tales about the old Nordic myths. After nine years of performing and collecting song material, their debut album entitled “FORN” was released on October 13th on By Norse Music.   

KAUNAN is Oliver S. Tyr (Ger), Boris Koller (Au) and Göran Hallmarken (Swe). Oliver S. Tyr is the frontman of the well-known German folk band FAUN. Boris Koller is a professional painter and composer who specialize on the old types of Nyckelharpa (KontrabasharpaGammelharpa). He has contributed to numerous studio productions and concerts with early music ensembles. Göran Hallmarken is one of the most outstanding hurdy-gurdy players in the Swedish folk and medieval music scene. 

Audiences all over Europe were left fascinated by their virtuous live performances, but also with the drive and archaic power of their interpretation of the old songs. They also supported Wardruna on their European tour 2017. 

KAUNAN doesn’t simply play a Polska; they celebrate it, with almost religious passion. Their debut album features contributions by great guest musicians such as Einar Selvik (WARDRUNA), Maria Franz (HEILUNG and SONGLEIKR) and the Swedish percussionist Dhani Åhlman. With a booklet rich in illustrations, photos and background stories about the folklore traditions behind the songs, their debut “FORN” opens a door to the ancient north like hardly any other album.