Arctic Adventures - February 2024

As Jo and I descended towards Bodø in the northern part of Norway, we held on tight to our seats as the flight was pretty bumpy!

But the strangeness of the weather up there in the Arctic Circle was contrasted by the warmth and hospitality of the people.

Our promotor and pal Ottar Olaussen met us at the airport and continued to take great care of us throughout our time in Bodø. It was also terrific to get together again with Attila and all the Djabe boys from Hungary.

As well as the band rehearsals, Ottar took us all out. We saw some impressive snow covered mountains alongside beautiful fjords and one of the biggest maelstroms in the world, its waters spinning in various directions. We went on to a Stone Age hut where we were treated around a central roaring fire to a demonstration of primal drumming, a bull roarer and an enormous bow, before being given a hot stew served in natural wooden bowls.

Back in Bodø, the gig went well at the lovely Svömmehallen venue. All of us performing enjoyed every minute playing to a very appreciative crowd.

During our stay, there were two hurricanes, the second of which was particularly strong. Ottar and a friend took us out to see more of those wonderful forbidding mountains and rugged coastline... the hurricane whipping up a snow storm along with incredible waves from the sea crashing over rocks and spraying upwards on the roadside. Perhaps a bit dangerous, but it was an extraordinary experience and well worth it! We had to dodge various police road blocks to wind our way back to the safety of the hotel...

On the last night I did a surprise guest spot for Djabe's second show, before returning home the following day.

It was altogether a fantastic experience... Great to get together with Attila and all the Djabe boys again and the local people were all so friendly and accommodating. Jo and I would particularly like to thank Ottar for his wonderful hospitality. We very much look forward to returning to Norway as soon as possible...