Helene Blum & Harald Haugaard Band – Den Store Sommer is a beautiful album that combines elements of Nordic folk music, blending rich traditions with a contemporary feel. Released in 2014, the album is a collaboration between Danish singer Helene Blum and fiddler Harald Haugaard, two of the leading figures in the Scandinavian folk music scene.

The title Den Store Sommer translates to "The Big Summer" in English, and the album's music evokes the warmth, beauty, and freedom often associated with the summer months. It’s filled with vibrant melodies, lush arrangements, and a deep connection to nature and the changing seasons, which are central themes in Nordic folk music.

The album features a mix of traditional and original compositions, with Blum's expressive voice and Haugaard's virtuoso fiddling at the forefront. The music is both joyful and introspective, capturing the contrast between the light-hearted, celebratory feel of summer and the more reflective, melancholic moments that often accompany the changing of seasons. The band’s arrangements include other instruments like the piano, accordion, and percussion, all adding layers of richness and depth to the folk foundation.

Highlights of the album include the title track Den Store Sommer, with its lively yet wistful tone, and the hauntingly beautiful ballad Sommerfuglen ("The Butterfly"), where Blum's voice shines with emotional depth.

Overall, Den Store Sommer is a stunning exploration of Scandinavian folk traditions through the lens of two highly skilled musicians. It’s an album that brings a sense of joy and nostalgia, perfect for those who appreciate folk music that carries both technical brilliance and emotional resonance.