Ullrson’s Primal Force: The Viking Techno Remix of “Hafta As”
Ullrson has expanded his sonic universe with an audacious premiere in 2026 — a Viking Techno remix of “Hafta As” from the revered group DVARA. This transformative reinterpretation nods to ancient cultures, drawing deep from the roots of the dead Scythian language and shamanic rituals dedicated to seven gods. The remix promises an exhilarating blend of ancient mysticism and ferocious energy, positioning Ullrson as a pivotal figure in the evolving landscape of electronic music.
A Haunting Invocation
At the heart of Ullrson’s remix is the haunting phrase: “Hafta as koruk raz” — translating to “Seven gods guide us by the star!” This invocation serves as a powerful motif, transporting listeners to realms of sacred stones and skyward prayers. The imagery that accompanies the music evokes an ancient setting where shamanic leaders, depicted via evocative lyrics, commune with the divine:
“Long, long stand the sacred stones,
Swift, swift fly the prayers to the sky,
The chief shaman lifts his hands to the void…”
Ullrson skillfully weaves these ritualistic words into the emotional pulse of the track, crafting a piece that resonates deeply on spiritual and physical levels — perfect for the dancefloor.
The Vision Behind the Remix
Ullrson emphasizes his intent to resurrect ancient rituals in a format palatable to contemporary audiences. He keeps the essence of DVARA’s throat vocals, complemented by a female lead and a variety of traditional instruments, including the tagelharpa and gusle. His creative process involves layering these ancient sounds with modern techno elements, resulting in a fusion that feels both sacred and electrifying.
“I wanted the remix to feel like an ancient ritual reborn for the modern ceremonial dancefloor,” Ullrson explains. “The contrast between the sacred and the powerful drive of techno creates a unique listening experience.”
Bridging Scythian and Norse Cultures
An intriguing aspect of this remix is its symbolic weaving of Scythian and Norse archery cultures. The Scythians were known as extraordinary horse archers, and their status as formidable warriors is reflected in Ullrson’s own identity — he is named after Ullr, the Norse god of archery. This connection invites listeners on a journey through history, merging two distinct yet parallel warrior traditions into a cohesive sonic pilgrimage worth exploring.
A Sonic Tapestry
Sonically, Ullrson’s remix is crafted as a vast hybrid of ancient textures and kinetic techno drive. He integrates elements from the original piece — such as bass, tagelharpa, throat singing, and shamanic percussion — into an extensive modern framework augmented by heavy kick drums, melancholic synths, and atmospheric pads. Instrumentation like the nyckelharpa and elderwood flute enriches this intricate tapestry, making it equally viable for historical ceremonies and dark, underground raves.
The Emergence of Ullrson
Ullrson is not merely a new name; he is the alter ego of Nick Bowman, an established DJ, producer, and radio host with a profound understanding of the techno scene. Originating from Norwich, East Anglia — a region steeped in pagan folklore — Ullrson draws inspiration from his local heritage, creating a narrative that honors both his ancestral roots and contemporary musical influences.
Bowman’s career spans over 16 years, during which he has helmed The Future Underground Show, shining a spotlight on underground talent. His driving bass-heavy sound has graced iconic venues such as Ministry of Sound, Pacha London, and Egg, and he has made waves internationally in Colombia, Germany, and Italy. His ascent began with a win at IDJ’s coveted “Raw Talent Competition,” where his mix garnered acclaim from notable figures like Jody Wisternoff and Riva Starr.
The Convergence of Past and Present
Ullrson’s remix of “Hafta As” represents much more than a musical piece; it is a cultural manifesto that revives ancient traditions through the lens of modern technology. The remix invites listeners to not only dance but to immerse themselves in the echoes of ancestral wisdom, a celebration of both heritage and contemporary creativity. With his unique approach, Ullrson is reshaping the future of techno, proving that yesterday’s sounds can power tomorrow’s dancefloors.
