9 Grader Nord

Norwegian Tamil Folk Rock - Norway

9 grader nord is a Norwegian, Tamil folk rock band that draws inspiration from a diverse range of musical styles, including Carnatic music, baila, and Tamil folk music. The band, consisting of sisters Mira and Dipha Thiruchelvam, Jakob Sisselson Hamre, and Jakob Sønnesyn, is known for their energetic, rebellious, and confident stage performances, incorporating various instruments like bamboo flute and cajon to create a unique and captivating live sound. The band name is Norwegian for 9 degrees north, where Jaffna in Sri Lanka lies, hometown of Mira and Diphas parents.

Since their beginning in 2017, the band has performed at numerous prestigious Norwegian festivals and various club stages across Norway, in addition to bigger TV appearances. Their versatility has led them to exciting projects such as collaborating with the Norwegian Radio Orchestra, and their second album “Yalpanam” won a Norwegian Grammy.

The parents of sisters Mira and Dipha fled the Sri Lankan civil war in the 1980s and have since been dedicated to preserving their Tamil cultural heritage. This dedication is evident in 9 grader nords music. The album “Yalpanam” reflects the bands deeply rooted desire to preserve their Tamil cultural heritage, which has been a significant driving force and motivation for their decision to sing in Tamil. The album is a chronological story that begins with the sisters parents arrival in Norway and explores the constant quest for recognition and affirmation within their own community