Albums

Cajun Du Nord

“Bridging the Bayou and the Fjords”

Quick Intro

Cajun Du Nord—a unique ensemble hailing from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden—has become a celebrated force in the global Cajun music scene. Their distinctive blend of traditional Cajun sounds with Scandinavian influences has captivated audiences worldwide, earning them prestigious accolades and a dedicated following.

In-Depth Profile

Formed in the late 1990s, Cajun Du Nord was born out of a shared passion for Cajun music among Scandinavian musicians. The band’s lineup features Jørgen Hansen (Denmark) on guitar, Harald Aanes (Norway) on drums, Göran Lomaeus (Sweden) on bass, Arve Håland (Norway) on accordion and vocals, and Elsebeth Krogh (Denmark) on vocals. Their dedication to authentic Cajun music led them to Louisiana, where they recorded their acclaimed album, Cajun Du Nord in Louisiana, at Swallow Records in 2000. This album features classic Cajun tracks such as “Danse de Limonade,” “Flammes d’Enfer,” and Nathan Abshire’s “Blues de Tac Tac.”

Their performances are characterized by a deep respect for Cajun traditions, combined with their own cultural nuances, creating a sound that resonates with both Cajun purists and new listeners alike.

Elsebeth Krogh of Denmark, who sings and plays fiddle and washboard, leads the band. She learned Cajun and Zydeco music from studying with various Cajun musicians while vacationing in Louisiana. Known in Denmark as Cajun Mama, Krogh has played Cajun music professionally all over Europe. She has also written a book about Cajun music and organizes Cajun workshops. She says that she will contact the Cajun Legend himself, D.L. Menard, while in Erath, to see if he would like to jam with them for a few songs.

Guitarist and fellow Dane, Jorgen Hansen, joined the band after a career as blues’ musician. Besides his work with Cajun Du Nord, Hansen plays with Danish group called Captain Crawfish and his Jumping Zydeco Band. Hansen says, “Danish music has a different beat, a different swing. The Cajun Waltz is much smoother, I love it.”

Drummer, Harald Aanes of Norway, has professionally played Mississippi Delta blues, jazz, and folk music, while bassist, Goran Lomaeus of Sweden, is a member of the top bluegrass group there, Bluegrass Swedes, and is a professional studio musician and songwriter.

Arve Haland plays accordion and sings vocals, and has his own band in Norway called Cajun Gumbo. ~excerpts from Acadian Museum

Signature Tracks

  • “Danse de Limonade” — A lively two-step that showcases the band’s tight rhythm section and infectious energy.
  • “Flammes d’Enfer” — A fiery waltz that demonstrates their mastery of traditional Cajun melodies.
  • “Blues de Tac Tac” — A heartfelt rendition of Nathan Abshire’s classic, paying homage to the Cajun accordion legend.

Notable Accomplishments & Awards

  • CFMA’s Best Foreign Cajun Band — 2000
  • Acadian Museum’s Living Legends Inductee — 2001
  • CFMA Recognition – Acknowledged by the Cajun French Music Association for their contribution to preserving Cajun music.
  • International Performances – Regularly performing at festivals and venues across the northern United States, spreading the joy of Cajun music.

Bonus Notes

  • Featured in various international festivals, spreading Cajun culture across Europe and beyond.
  • Collaborated with renowned Cajun musicians during their visits to Louisiana, enriching their musical repertoire.