Synnøve Brøndbo Plassen – Den Lyse Dag (Heilo, 2023)
Synnøve Brøndbo Plassen’s album Den Lyse Dag (The bright day) offers a glimpse into the rhythms of life at the Østerdalen summer farm in Norway. Through charming traditional vocal pieces deeply rooted in pastoral traditions, Plassen paints a vivid picture of daily life in this rural setting. The fascinating a cappella album features a lovely blend of kettle calls, dance tunes, lullabies, children’s songs, and psalms, each reflecting the unique relationship between the “budeie” (farming lady) and her animals.
Set against the backdrop of Østerdalen’s high-altitude summer farms, where nature’s beauty meets rugged terrain, Plassen’s music evokes the tireless work of the “budeie.” These women, entrusted with the care of both livestock and people, synchronize their tasks with the sun’s journey across the sky.
Plassen herself is from Folldal in Østerdalen, where folk music is an integral part of daily life. Since debuting with her album “Hjemve” in 2021, she has rapidly risen to prominence as one of Norway’s most sought-after folk musicians. Her accolades include the Folkelarm Prize and a top Norwegian music award nomination. Currently based in Oslo, Plassen continues to pursue her passion for folk music while holding a master’s degree.
Synnøve says: “Today, I carry these melodies within me as a young folk singer, aiming to sustain their vibrancy within contemporary society. The album is structured to mirror the progression of a day on the summer farm, from the first light of dawn to the depths of night.”
Buy Den Lyse Dag.
Author: Sonia Keller
