On "I Took Up the Runes," Garbarek explores the sonic possibilities of his Norwegian roots, layering his signature saxophone sound with vocal textures and percussive elements. The album bridges his established ECM sound with a more direct engagement with folk traditions.
- The album features guest appearances from Indian percussionist Trilok Gurtu and Swedish folk singer/harpist Marie Boine.
- "I Took Up the Runes" was recorded at the Oslo, Norway, Rainbow Studio, a frequent location for Garbarek's recordings.
- The album reached number 5 on the German Jazz Charts in 1991.
Jan Garbarek is a Norwegian saxophonist and composer known for his distinctive, lyrical sound that blends jazz with elements of folk and world music. "I Took Up the Runes" arrived in 1990, marking a period where his compositions increasingly incorporated vocal textures and a more overt exploration of his Norwegian heritage.
Tracklist
