Orkan

Taake's 'Orkan' is a powerful and provocative song that delves into themes of heritage, defiance, and national pride. The lyrics are steeped in imagery of storms and flames, symbolizing both the chaos and the fierce spirit of resistance. The opening lines, 'Vi taler flammer gull og krutt / Vi flyr ikke på tepper men motvind / Storm,' set the tone for a song that is unapologetically bold and confrontational. The use of 'flammer' (flames), 'gull' (gold), and 'krutt' (gunpowder) evokes a sense of battle and valor, while 'motvind' (headwind) suggests a struggle against opposing forces.

The song also touches on themes of paganism and a rejection of foreign influences, particularly Christianity and Islam. Lines like 'Hedenskapet toner sitt flagg / Ingen skal flå mitt gamle land' (Paganism raises its flag / No one shall flay my old land) and 'Til Helvete med Muhammed og Muhammedanerne' (To Hell with Muhammad and the Muhammadans) reflect a fierce protection of cultural and religious identity. This defiance is further emphasized with the imagery of the 'bonden' (farmer) sharpening his axe, symbolizing a readiness to defend the land and its traditions.

The song's narrative also includes a critique of modern times, described as 'Uår skam og kristen tid / Skjebnesvanger indre strid' (Years of shame and Christian times / Fateful inner strife). This suggests a longing for a return to a pre-Christian, pagan past, free from the perceived corruption and conflict of contemporary society. The closing lines, 'Feltherrenes vitnesbyrd / Hardt mot hardt nu våkner snart / Norge' (The generals' testimony / Hard against hard now soon awakens / Norway), evoke a sense of awakening and resurgence, a call to arms for the preservation of national identity and heritage.

Taake, known for their black metal roots, often explores themes of Norwegian history, nature, and anti-religious sentiment. 'Orkan' is a quintessential example of their style, blending aggressive musicality with evocative and controversial lyrics to create a powerful statement on identity and resistance.