Astrophilia

Astrophilia is a suite inspired by ancient Viking cosmology, with each movement representing a different landscape from each of the nine mythical realms: Asgard – Realm of the Aesir, Alfheim – Realm of the Bright Elves, Jotunheimr - Realm of the Giants, Midgard – Realm of the Humans, Muspelheim/Muspell – A fire-giant or the forces of chaos or their realm, Nidavellir – Realm of the Dwarves, Niflheim – Realm of Ice and Mist, Hel – Realm of the dead, Vanaheim – Realm of the Vanir. To invoke these mythical landscapes, Jasmine Morris focused on using traditional Viking instruments made and performed by Swedish folk musician and ethnographer Per Runberg. The central track 'Midgard' is a miniature suite for string quartet performed by the Tippett Quartet. The album is accompanied by two videos from artist, animator and musician Molly Andrews.

A key aspect of this cosmology present throughout the suite is a druid worship ceremony. Although these Viking druids are often associated with bloodthirsty rituals, terrifying wickermen and sacrifices; composer Jasmine Morris wanted to illustrate their more reflective and mindful practices. According to Caesar, the druids would abstain from warfare and instead would study ancient verse, natural philosophy and astronomy. This meditative philosophy is reflected in the suite through an emphasis on the natural resonance of each string instrument and frequent use of natural harmonics.

Jasmine Morris, is a musician and composer currently studying at the Royal College of Music on a full BAME Scholarship under the tutelage of Simon Holt and Haris Kittos.

Out Thursday 28 April (digital release).