December Sun

With warmth, radiance, and deep roots in Nordic folk traditions, “Decembersol” sheds new light on classic Danish Christmas carols. The ensemble Dybfølt has explored the Christmas music repertoire of Denmark and Sweden in depth, compiling a selection of both popular Christmas classics and rarely heard gems by Scandinavian composers, concluding with a festive New Year’s potpourri. A collection of atmospheric interpretations in which the quiet contemplation of Christmas meets the life-affirming energy of folk music. Singing is an essential part of the Danish Christmas tradition, both in church and at home, where families sing and dance around the Christmas tree. The ensemble presents fresh and original interpretations of the melodies, drawing on its Nordic musical background while also incorporating elements from Middle Eastern music, klezmer, sacred music, and Western classical music. The album includes works by renowned Danish composers such as Carl Nielsen, Per Nørgård, and Rued Langgaard, as well as an interpretation of “Det är en ros utsprungen” (A rose has sprung) in the iconic choral arrangement for 12 voices by Swedish composer Jan Sandström, performed here on an Ondes martenot.