Fimbulvinter is a personal album, based on Bjørn’s own experience dealing with anxiety. The lyrics are profoundly honest and emotional, describing utter hopelessness, paranoia, and despair yet a hope and gratitude.
Riis says: “It’s not an autobiographical album but I wanted to share some of my own experience and write about a topic that I think is very important. Mental health is something everyone is dealing with in one form or another, in different periods of life. It’s something we all can relate to but it’s still somewhat of a tabu. The music is possibly the heaviest I’ve written. There’s some really powerful stuff, with guitars and drums, but there are also beautiful and evocative moments that add a strong contrast and diversity.”
Musically, Fimbulvinter reflects Bjørn’s diverse influences, blending the atmospheric and introspective tones of progressive rock with the energy and swagger of the hard rock bands he grew up with in the early ’80s. Fans of Kiss, Black Sabbath, and classic progressive acts will find much to love in the album’s rich soundscapes. From the driving, anthemic energy of “Gone”—a track made for blasting on the open road—to moments of introspection and monumental heaviness, Fimbulvinter is a dynamic journey through darkness and light.
The title, Fimbulvinter, refers to Norse mythology and the tale of the long winter that leads up to Ragnarok – the end of the world and a new beginning. Fimbulvinter features Bjørn on all instruments and vocals, with contributions from Airbag’s Henrik Bergan Fossum (drums), Arild Brøter from Pymlico (drums) and Kai Christoffersen. Once again, Bjørn teamed up with long-time collaborator Vegard Kleftås Sleipnes, who co-produced, mixed, and mastered the album.
