Once recognized as “Pessimisten,” the talented frontman of Ofdrykkja, David Jansson, has overcome numerous challenges to earn the well-deserved title of “Nordic Nomad.” Through his engaging social media presence, this Swedish-born artist shares captivating accounts of his journeys and the enchanting experiences he has encountered in nature. These adventures have led him to profound self-actualization and a state of overall wellness, inspiring many to reflect on their own paths.

His narrative is a powerful testament to triumph over the shadows of life. By sharing his story, Jansson offers valuable insights into navigating emotions, transforming mindsets, and overcoming addictions, encouraging others to find their strength and resilience.

This is the remarkable journey of David Jansson.

Exploring the Depths of Emotional Turmoil with Apati

In 2007, Jansson took a significant step in his musical journey by founding the depressive black metal band Apati, to which he contributed poignant lyrics and powerful backing vocals. The raw and authentic emotional expressions captured in Apati’s two albums, Eufori (2009) and Morgondagen inställd i brist på intresse (2010), resonate deeply, evoking a heartbreaking experience for listeners. Jansson reflects on this time, stating, “It was a completely different reality, which we tried to express as honestly as possible. Back then, music served as a therapeutic outlet, allowing us to ventilate our inner struggles.”

The disbandment of Apati came tragically with the death of their former member Obehag. “It was profoundly moving when they played ‘Morgondagen’ at the funeral, and I couldn’t hold back my tears. Obehag was the first friend I lost, marking the beginning of a long, arduous journey into darkness.” Jansson, who had nearly lost his own life prior to seeking refuge in Tokyo, would face the heart-wrenching loss of five more friends within six months and many others in the years to follow.

Transforming Pain into Art: The Rise of Ofdrykkja

The bonds forged through shared struggles and the grief of Obehag’s passing ultimately birthed Ofdrykkja, a collaboration between Jansson, Drabbad, the late MMA instructor Bödeln, and Ahlström. “Our madness seemed to be aligned,” Jansson recalls, highlighting the unique connection that brought them together.

“We never aimed to glorify our suffering, which is why we avoided becoming trapped in it. Our goal was to share our experiences, recognizing that life is about change and evolution.” As a result, Ofdrykkja has undergone a radical transformation, shifting from a sound deeply rooted in black metal infused with post-rock elements to embracing more classical acoustic and folk influences, enriched by collaborations with guest artists.

In his musical endeavors, Jansson occasionally plays the horn, an instrument he has cherished since the age of ten. “Amidst the chaos of my childhood, I felt a deep connection to the history of my ancestors, which has always inspired my creative journey.”

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Ofdrykkja’s Four Full-Length Albums: A Journey from Darkness to Light

Reflecting on Ofdrykkja’s debut album, A Life Worth Losing (2014), Jansson recalls the somber nature of some copies, which were literally soaked in blood — “I don’t know if there’s any darker music.”

“Our second album, Irrfärd [2017], which translates to a journey of uncertainty about the destination, marked a significant step into the unknown while simultaneously moving us away from chaos.”

Gryningsvisor, meaning “Hymns in the Dawn,” symbolizes the moment when the band members began to “see the sun rise in the distance… We had discovered our path toward the light after enduring a protracted night of struggles.” By the time they released After the Storm, “the storm had passed, and the darkness felt more distant, yet some darker areas remained.” This record includes a heartfelt tribute to Bödeln titled “Hårgalåten,” a cherished folk song.

While Jansson aspires for Ofdrykkja’s future works to reflect even more brightness, he acknowledges that darkness and chaos are inherent aspects of life that must be effectively integrated into Ofdrykkja’s captivating soundscapes. “I believe we wouldn’t excel at spreading light if we didn’t comprehend the darkness.”

Now embracing the life he has nurtured, Jansson no longer perceives the artistic process solely as a form of therapy but has embraced a more profound role as a healer. “Music is my medium for inspiration and aiding others on their journeys.”

Navigating Life’s Challenges Through Nature’s Wonders

Documented through stunning photographs, Jansson embarked on a transformative seven-year journey in 2016, traversing through 16 countries across South America, Oceania, and Europe.

“I was on a quest to discover God, my true self, and the meaning of life while seeking healing. However, I was a stubborn individual, deeply attached to my own suffering. It required considerable effort to liberate myself from that attachment.”

Jansson’s awakening was catalyzed by a series of profound events, including ceremonies with shamans in the Amazon and other regions of the continent. He also absorbed transformative teachings from various nomads and cultures that enriched his understanding.

During his time in Australia, Jansson committed to introspection through meditation and released built-up tension through yoga practices. Previously constantly on the move, his decision to remain in one place for six months became “crucial to my healing journey. Otherwise, it’s just another form of escape, akin to alcohol or drugs.”

Upon returning to Sweden, Jansson experienced a spiritual revelation when Odin manifested to him, filling him with a profound “sensation of pure love” and unlocking similar experiences. “I strive to discover truth across diverse religions.”

During this transformative period, Jansson also settled down and purchased a picturesque farm featuring 12 buildings, which he and his partner are currently renovating. They care for sheep and chickens while sharing their surroundings with bears, moose, lynxes, wolves, and wolverines.

Empowering Others Through Wilderness Leadership

In Navardalen, Northern Dalarna, Jansson is set to lead his second annual wilderness retreat, driven by his unwavering commitment to serve as a torchbearer of his ancestral legacy. He shares essential survival skills and wisdom accumulated over the years to foster independence and confidence among participants.

“I teach participants how to create fire without matches or lighters, purify water, identify edible herbs, and utilize other resources from nature. We also engage in practices like ice baths, sauna experiences, and meditation to cultivate discipline while learning to confront discomfort, a vital key to a fulfilling life. This process helps us reconnect with ourselves and the natural world, allowing time to sit in silence, listen to the birds, walk barefoot on moss, and swim in a nearby lake.”

Jansson’s experience extends to educating others about Nordic nature and cultural heritage, stemming from his time working at a Viking village before his nomadic adventures and later at an ice hotel in Northern Norway. There, he guided snowmobile and Northern Lights tours while immersing himself in the breathtaking beauty of the winter landscape, enduring temperatures as low as -30°C (around -22°F) while practicing Wim Hof’s techniques.

Championing the Modern Warrior Mindset

About three years ago, Jansson began crafting a biography that he hopes to publish. This work would provide valuable insight into the empowered mindset of a modern warrior who has reshaped his life by cultivating strength and embracing personal responsibility.

In sentiments akin to those expressed in After the Storm, Jansson invites us to reflect, “What must I change to become the person I aspire to be? To attain happiness, we must listen to our true selves.”

Special thanks to David Jansson for the insightful interview. Follow Ofdrykkja on Bandcamp, Instagram, and Facebook to stay updated on their journey.