Norway | PATRICIA THOMAS BAND MANAGEMENT

Posts Tagged ‘Norway’

ALTERNATIVE POP ORCHESTRA MEER REVEALS DETAILS OF UPCOMING ALBUM ALONG WITH A NEW VIDEO AND SINGLE

Posted: June 11, 2024 in KARISMA RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Alternative Pop, Alternative Pop Orchestra, Karisma Records, Meer, Norway, Norwegian, Pop, Pop Orchestra, Prog

With the release of the album “Wheels Within Wheels” from Pop Proggers MEER on the horizon, Karisma Records have today released not only the details of the album, but also a single and video of the track “Golden Circle” which will give fans a taste of what to expect from the band’s much anticipated third full-length album.

With its infectious hooks, “Golden Circle” showcases MEER’s unique blend of musical prowess and emotional depth, along their ability to captivate audiences. The combination of soft, serenade-like tones and an undeniable heaviness, and with quite possibly the band’s most catchy chorus to date, this is a rock anthem in the making.

Exploring the depths of longing and desire, “Golden Circle’s” lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist grappling with inner turmoil, seeking solace in fleeting moments of euphoria. and can be downloaded or streamed from a number of services at:

https://orcd.co/goldencircle

Whilst the video, by Birk Rønningsbakken Groven, with its moody lighting by Kåre Nordseth, can be seen below:

Formed in Hamar, Norway, in 2008, by the charismatic sibling duo of Johanne and Knut Kippersund, MEER’s lineup has grown to eight members, each of whom has brought with them their own musical styles and interests, complementing and influencing each other so that the band’s music has become fascinatingly eclectic.

So, with Johanne Kippersund on vocals, Knut Kippersund on vocals, Eivind Strømstad on guitar, Åsa Ree on violin, Ingvild Nordstoga Eide on viola, Ole Gjøstøl on keyboards, Morten Strypet on bass and Mats Lillehaug on drums, “Wheels Within Wheels” promises to be a masterclass in the blending of symphonic prog and intelligent pop, filled with exceptional musicianship, intricate vocal harmonies, and grandiose melodies.

It is also clear that “Wheels Within Wheels”, whose title symbolises the hidden complexities beneath the surface, represents a significant evolution for MEER, featuring, as it does, tracks that reach soaring heights interspersed with moments of intimate reflection.

Reuniting with producer Lars Gärtner Fremmerlid, MEER recorded “Wheels Within Wheels” at Ocean Sound Recordings in 2023. With artwork by Helena Haglund and Simen Sandbæk Skari, track listing on “Wheels Within Wheels” is as follows:

01. Chains of Changes
02. Behave
03. Take Me to the River
04. Come to Light
05. Golden Circle
06. Today Tonight Tomorrow
07. World of Wonder
09. Mother
10. Something in the Water
11. This is the End

With a running time of just over an hour, MEER’s most ambitious, dynamic and immersive work to date will be released on the 23 August 2024 in CD, Digital and Ltd Edition Double LP in Neon Magenta / Grimace Purple Vinyl formats, and is now available to pre-order from:

Bandcamp: https://meer.bandcamp.com/album/wheels-within-wheels
Webshop: https://www.karismarecords.no/shop/
US Webshop: https://karismarecords.indiemerch.com/pre-orders

MEER is scheduled to appear live at the following (more to follow):

07 July: Havlystparken, Hvitsten, Norway
21 July: Night of the Prog Festival, Loreley Amphitheater, Bornich, Germany
https://www.facebook.com/events/6575309745921403
8 Sept: Two Days Prog +1 Festival, Campo Sportivo, Novara, Italy
20-21 Sept: Pulterkammer Festival, Hamar Teater, Hamar, Norway
https://www.facebook.com/events/960010719085265
27 Sept: Hunsfos Rock Festival, Hunsfos Bryggeri og Destilleri, Hunsfos, Norway
https://www.facebook.com/events/730511715879709

More information about MEER can be found on the band’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MEERmusikk/

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MEERmusikk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meermusic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOPFSGuj-8Grx2_1_A8m2kA
Band contact: post@meerband.com
Promo and other information: post@karismarecords.no
Karisma Records contact: post@karismarecords.no
Karisma Records: http://www.karismarecords.no/
Karisma Records Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karismarecords
Karisma Records Bandcamp: https://karismarecords.bandcamp.com
Karisma Records on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KarismarecordsNor
Karisma Records Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarismaRecords
Karisma on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/karisma-records
Karisma Records Webshop: http://karismarecords.bigcartel.com/
Karisma Records US Webshop: http://karismarecords.aisamerch.com/

DETAILS OF THE THIRD OF SIX RELEASES FROM THE BACK CATALOGUE OF PROG LEGENDS WHITE WILLOW REVEALED

Posted: June 4, 2024 in KARISMA RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Jacob Holm-Lupo, Karisma Records, Lars Fredrik Frøislie, Norway, Norwegian Prog, Prog, Prog Rock, Progressive, White Willow, Wobbler

The year is 2000, and it is the year that Norwegian Prog Legends WHITE WILLOW released what would be the band’s third full-length album. Titled “Sacrament” the album would undergo a long, painstaking creative process, one that would ensure that the arrangements of each song were inventive, dynamic, and above all, beautiful.

After a lengthy period of rehearsals at the Norwegian Institute for Scene and Studio, WHITE WILLOW entered Lydkjøkkenet, a brand new studio run by Øystein Vesaas, a talented engineer whose patience and personality were a perfect fit for the band, allowing them time to experiment and try out different variations.

Recorded over an extended period of time, due to the fact that WHITE WILLOW’s founder Jacob Holm-Lupo was holding down a full-time job, the sessions for “Sacrament” would often run from the evening until well into the night. Despite the punishing schedule, the whole band felt energized and believed totally in the material they were working on, so that instead of feeling onerous, the whole experience is remembered by them as an enjoyable time.

It is creation about which Holm-Lupo says:

“Sacrament” is the first album where I think we did everything really well”

It was during the making of “Sacrament”, that the Prog scene itself was undergoing a period in which certain elements of the genre were beginning to filter through into mainstream music, which in itself gave WHITE WILLOW somewhat of a motivational boost. The end result was an album that not only received glowing reviews world-wide and healthy sales figures, it also received some mainstream recognition.

Now, as part of Karisma Records plans to re-release six albums from WHITE WILLOWS’ back catalogue, “Sacrament” has been meticulously remastered by Holm-Lupo himself to become the third of the six scheduled releases.

Set to appear on the 5th July, this will be the first time that “Sacrament” will be released in vinyl format, and, along with the Limited Edition White Vinyl, it will also be available in CD and Digital formats.

Presented with the classic original cover art, track listing on “Sacrament” is as follows:

1. Anamnesis
2. Paper Moon
3. The Crucible
4. The Last Rose of Summer
5. Gnostalgia
6. The Reach

“Sacrament” is now available to pre-order from:

Smartlink to various services: https://orcd.co/ww-sacrament
Webshop: https://www.karismarecords.no/shop/
Bandcamp: https://whitewillow.bandcamp.com/album/sacrament-remaster

WHITE WILLOW was formed in 1992 by guitarist Jacob Holm-Lupo, who at that time was a member of the POLICE/BRUCE HORNSBY-inspired pop band THE ORCHID GARDEN, and keyboard player Jan Tariq Rahman from local jazz-rock/prog rock band DUGGVÅTE DVE.

It was a case of two musicians coming together see if they had any kind of songwriting chemistry, and, whilst sitting on the floor playing acoustic guitar and clavinet, produced the track “Snowfall” which convinced them that they could, indeed, come up with something worthwhile.

WHITE WILLOW’s history, however, was never simple, with members having come and gone over the years and only Holm-Lupo having remained with the band since its inception, whilst WOBBLER’s Lars Fredrik Frøislie has been a mainstay since 2001.

The band’s sound too has undergone changes, but it’s safe to say that it is frequently centered around female vocals and an expanded instrumentation that usually includes a host of analogue synthesizers, mellotron, woodwinds and strings, in addition, of course, to traditional rock instrumentation.

Now, exclusively a studio project, WHITE WILLOW is noted for featuring guest appearances from prominent musicians such as Norway’s guitar hero Hedvig Mollestad, or internationally renowned klezmer clarinetist David Krakauer.

By the time the re-release project is finished, Karisma Records will have released all six of the following albums:

Ignis Fatuus – 1995 (released Nov 2023)
Ex Tenebris – 1997 (released April 2024)
Sacrament – 2000 (due for release July 2024)
Storm Season – 2004
Signal to Noise – 2006
Terminal Twilight – 2011

More information about WHITE WILLOW can be found at https://www.facebook.com/whitewillowband/

A video for the track “Kansas Regrets” from WHITE WILLOW’s 2011 album “Terminal Twilight” can be seen below

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitewillowband/
Holm-Lupo Lydproduksjon: www.duderanchstudio.com
Karisma Records contact: post@karismarecords.no
Karisma Records: http://www.karismarecords.no/
Karisma Records Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karismarecords
Karisma Records Bandcamp: https://karismarecords.bandcamp.com
Karisma Records on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KarismarecordsNor
Karisma Records Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarismaRecords
Karisma on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/karisma-records
Karisma Records Webshop: http://karismarecords.bigcartel.com/
Karisma Records US Webshop: https://karismarecords.indiemerch.com

KARISMA RECORDS ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM FROM PSYCHEDELIC PROG FOLK ROCKERS TUSMØRKE

Posted: May 30, 2024 in KARISMA RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Folk Rock, Karisma Records, Norway, Prog, Psychedelic, Psychedelic Prog Folk Rock, Tusmørke

Twelve albums in twelve years! We could only be talking about Norway’s Psychedelic Prog Folk Rockers TUSMØRKE, whose output is not only prolific, but also original and fantastical. It ranges from concept based trilogies aimed at young music fans, to the creation of entire worlds (some, you might say, even a little on the naughty side) that beguile audiences with both their music and their lyrical themes. Themes that frequently contain cleverly disguised serious messages about the times in which we live.

So what does TUSMØRKE have in store for us with their twelfth full-length album? Well the title “Dawn of Oberon” offers up quite a large hint that some kind of mystical realm is involved, and indeed, this time we are swept off on a subterranean expedition to the Kingdom of the Fair Folk.

And the thinking behind it? Best if we allow TUSMØRKE to describe it in their own way:

“Dawn of Oberon” is a manifestation of our Peter Pan syndrome, with our aesthetics and ideals having remained unchanged for the last 25 years.

This time we go away with the fairies all together, to the far-away land of the far-out mind. Never grow up, just grow old.

Once again the highly acclaimed Norwegian artist Sverre Malling has provided the artwork for the album, which is set for release on the 30th August.

Tracklisting for “Dawn of Oberon” is as follows:

Dawn of Oberon
Born to be mild
Dwarven Lord
Midsommernattsdrøm
People View
Troll Male

The actual recording of the album was not exactly straightforward (actually, is anything ever straightforward with TUSMØRKE?) As the band explains:

This album is a testament to a tumultuous time. It was 2022 and we had a new drummer, Kusken, and keyboard player, Herjekongen, and we immediately started working on the epic that was to become “Dawn of Oberon”. This behemoth had been wallowing about since the start of the millennium, never quite finding its shape and form.

We thought of this as a trial by fire that would galvanize the new members, and, during jams at rehearsals and concerts, new themes emerged, resulting in a sort of sequel in the form of Dusk of Tawblerawn part 1-5. Kusken decided to quit after just 8 months, but agreed to document the time we had spent together. All the music was recorded in our rehearsal space and studio in 2022-2023.

“Dawn of Oberon” will be available in CD, Digital and Limited Edition Milky Clear Vinyl formats and can be pre-ordered now at:

Smartlink to various services – https://orcd.co/oberon
Bandcamp – https://tusm-rke.bandcamp.com/album/dawn-of-oberon
Webshop – https://www.karismarecords.no/shop/

TUSMØRKE is band whose joie de vivre translates extremely well into live performances, and fans will be able to witness it for themselves when the current lineup of Herjekongen on Keyboards, Brennesle on Drums, Krizla on Flute and vocals, and Benediktator on Bass and Vocals, hit the stage on the following dates (more to come).

07 June: Hulen, Bergen
08 June: Offentlige Bibliotek, Bergen (Bydyra)
15 June: Kampen Bistro, Oslo
27 June: Pomorfestivalen, Vardø (Bydyra)
31 August: Release gig (details to be announced)

More information about TUSMØRKE can be found on the band’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Tusmorke/

Below you can see the official video by Aleksander U. Serigstad for the track “Tøyens Hemmelighet” from TUSMØRKE’s 2018 album “Fjernsyn i Farver”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tusmorke/
Bandcamp: https://tusm-rke.bandcamp.com
Band contact: tusmorke.booking@gmail.com
Promo and other information: post@karismarecords.no
Karisma Records: http://www.karismarecords.no/
Karisma Records Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karismarecords
Karisma Records on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KarismarecordsNor
Karisma on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/karisma-records
Karisma Records on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karismarecords/
Karisma Records Webshop: https://www.karismarecords.no/shop/
Karisma Records US Webshop: https://karismarecords.indiemerch.com
Karisma Records BandCamp: http://karismarecords.bandcamp.com/music

BLACK METAL VETERANS KOLDBRANN REVEAL DETAILS OF UPCOMING ALBUM

Posted: May 28, 2024 in DARK ESSENCE RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Black Metal, Dark Essence Records, Koldbrann, Norway, Norwegian Black Metal

When Dark Essence Records announced that Norwegian Black Metal veterans KOLDBRANN would be joining the label for the release of the band’s fourth full-length album “Ingen Skånsel”, they also gave fans a taste of what they could expect from the band who had effectively been on hiatus for almost a decade.

That taste came in the form of a limited edition 7″, two-track vinyl “Den 6. Massedød (Manna fra en annen himmel)” that showed that KOLDBRANN had lost neither their edge, nor their defiant, “backs to the world” swagger, and that they were just as fearsome, and just as uncompromising, as they had ever been.

Or, as Distorted Sound Magazine put it:

“the band have re-asserted themselves as one of the undisputed masters of Norwegian black metal, cramming more frenetic moments and musical twists into just two songs than many of their contemporaries could manage on a whole album”.

Since the two tracks had been recorded at the same time as the album itself, it was fairly safe to assume that “Ingen Skånsel” would contain more of that same ferocity that has kept KOLDBRANN at the forefront of Norwegian Black Metal underground scene since 2001.

And, indeed, anyone hearing “Ingen Skånsel” for the first time will instantly recognise Mannevond’s trademark blacker than black raw vocals, which, combined with Kvass’ clever Norwegian lyrics, and the band’s unique riffs, confirm that KOLDBRANN have carved out their own individual sound.

It is a sound which, whilst deeply rooted in the True Norwegian Black Metal Tradition, nevertheless manages to remain fresh, raw and different, and, more importantly, completely untainted by whatever “play it by numbers” trend happens to be current on any particular day.

The title “Ingen Skånsel”, which means “No Mercy” says it all really, because this is a merciless, deeply aggressive album, that offers no quarter and takes no prisoners. With layout by Salowe Vision, track listing for “Ingen Skånsel” is as follows:

Ingen Skånsel
Et Uomtvistelig Falsum
I Unaturens Vold
Prosesjon Under Blyhimmel
Det Kryper Kaldt
Maskiner av Nihil
Forstanden Seiler Sin Egen Sjø
Fortærer av Minne og Form
Rykk Skaperverket Opp med Roten
Vorde Eders Farkost en Katafalk
Serenade til Dødens Elende
Elevert Hinsides Tilstand (CD only track)

The track “I Unaturens Vold” will be released as a single on the 20th June.

The album “Ingen Skånsel” will hit the streets on the 23rd August in CD, Digital, Cassette and Smoke Marble Vinyl formats. It is now available to pre-order at:

Smartlink to various services: https://orcd.co/ingen-skaansel
Webshop: https://darkessencerecords.no/shop
Bandcamp: https://koldbrann.bandcamp.com/album/ingen-sk-nsel

KOLDBRANN’s live appearances have earned the band a well-deserved notoriety and 2024/2025 will see the lineup of Mannevond on Vocals, Kvass and Voidar on Guitars, Leonid Melnikov on Drums, and John Grave on live Bass appearing in the Czech Republic, Poland, UK, Austria and Switzerland, as well as first-time performances in Canada and Romania, with more to come!

More information about KOLDBRANN can be found on the band’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/koldbrannofficial

A video of KOLDBRANN live at Wacken in 2023 can be seen below and at https://youtu.be/2pVczr09ULU?si=bfzczi7igRcwd4wI

PROG ROCKERS AIRBAG RELEASE NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

Posted: May 10, 2024 in KARISMA RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Airbag, Bjorn Riis, Karisma Records, Norway, Norwegian Prog, Norwegian Prog Rock, Prog, Prog Rock

The 14th June 2024 marks the day that Karisma Records will release “The Century of the Self” the sixth full-length album from AIRBAG, one of the most prominent Prog Rock bands to have emerged from Norway in the last few decades.

And, in anticipation of that day, the label has released a second single from the album. Titled “Awakening”, this is what the band had to say about the track:

“Awakening” is one of those songs that reflects on the band’s past, with strong ties to albums like “Identity” and “All Rights Removed”, whilst at the same time venturing into new sonics and production. Lyrically, “Awakening” is a message of hope in a time where se seem to stray away from caring for each other and allowing social media to create a destructive diversion.

“Awakening” can be streamed or downloaded from a variety of services at:

https://orcd.co/airbag-awakening

A video for the track “Awakening” by Crystal Media (known for their work with songwriter/producer Steven Wilson, amongst others) can be seen below

“The Century of Self” is an album that stands as a testament to the artistic vision and enduring creativity that AIRBAG bring to their music. Touching on themes such as cancel culture and the rewriting of personal histories, it is a reflection on modern society’s zeitgeist, and a poignant commentary of today’s world, which is steeped in fear and condemnation.

Recorded at Subsonic Society, Airbag Studio, and Riis Studio, and expertly produced, mixed, and mastered by Vegard Kleftås Sleipnes, “The Century of Self” features guest appearances by Kristian Hultgren on bass on “Dysphoria” and “Tear it Down”, Ole Michael Bjørndal on guitar on “Dysphoria”, “Tyrants and Kings” and “Tear it Down” and Simen Valldal Johannessen on keyboards on “Tear it Down”.

With artwork by Asle Tostrup, track listing on “The Century of the Self” is as follows:

01. Dysphoria
02. Tyrants and Kings
03. Awakening
04. Erase
05. Tear It Down

“The Century of the Self” will be released in CD, Limited Edition Digisleeve CD and Digital formats, as well as three different LP version -Black Vinyl LP, Limited Edition Red Vinyl LP and Limited Edition Black and Red Splatter Vinyl LP.

It is now available to pre-order from:

Bandcamp: https://airbagsound.bandcamp.com/album/century-of-the-self
Webshop: https://www.karismarecords.no/shop/
US Webshop: https://karismarecords.indiemerch.com/

With this latest album, AIRBAG’s lineup of Asle Tostrup on vocals, keyboards and programming, Henrik Bergan Fossum on drums, and Bjørn Riis on guitars, bass, keyboards and backing vocals, lead the listener on a sonic journey through introspection and intensity.

Opening with the track “Dysphoria”, with its mesmerizing depths, “The Century of Self” is filled with the irresistible vocal hooks and virtuoso lead guitar work for which AIRBAG has become synonymous the world-over.

From the haunting crescendo of “Tyrants and Kings,” to the introspective balladry of “Awakening” we are led towards the foreboding depths of the single “Erase” that builds from a hypnotic bass line into a powerhouse of heavy refrains, setting the stage for the epic conclusion of “Tear it Down”, a 14 minute opus that goes from serene moments of reflection towards the heaviest musical landscapes AIRBAG has ever produced.

AIRBAG has been confirmed to play three shows in Poland in October and two shows in the Netherlands in November. More shows will be announced in due course

Poland
17 Oct: Stary Manez, Gdansk
18 Oct: Klub Progresja, Warsaw
18 Oct: Klub Kwadrat, Krakow

Netherlands
01 Nov: De Cacaofabriek, Helmond
02 Nov: Poppodium, Boerderij

More information about AIRBAG can be found on the band’s website at http://www.airbagsound.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/airbagsound

A lyric video for the track “Erase” can be seen below

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
AIRBAG
Website: www.airbagsound.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airbagsound
YouTube: www.youtube.com/airbagsound
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/airbagsound/
Airbag Booking: bjorn@airbag.no
KARISMA RECORDS
Promo and other information: post@karismarecords.no
Karisma Records contact: post@karismarecords.no
Karisma Records: http://www.karismarecords.no/
Karisma Records Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karismarecords
Karisma Records Bandcamp: https://karismarecords.bandcamp.com
Karisma Records on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KarismarecordsNor
Karisma Records Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarismaRecords
Karisma on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/karisma-records
Karisma Records Webshop: https://www.karismarecords.no
Karisma Records US Webshop: https://karismarecords.indiemerch.com

PROG ROCKERS AIRBAG REVEAL DETAILS, NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM UPCOMING SIXTH FULL-LENGTH ALBUM

Posted: April 11, 2024 in KARISMA RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Airbag, Karisma Records, Norway, Prog, Prog Rock, Progressive

It’s the news Prog fans have been waiting for since 2020 when AIRBAG released their last album “A Day at the Beach”, because, on the 14th June 2024 Karisma Records will release “The Century of the Self”, the sixth full-length album from the Norwegian masters of Prog.

With AIRBAG’s trademark fusion of mellow introspection and dynamic energy, “The Century of the Self” promises to carry the listener on an auditory journey like no other, and, for those eager to assuage their thirst for new material from the band, Karisma Records have released a single from the album.

Titled “Erase” this is what AIRBAG had to say about it:

“Erase” is probably one of the heaviest songs we’ve ever written and it was the first we wrote for the new album. It pretty much defined the mood and theme for the rest of the material. “Erase” is a comment on the whole cancel culture and how everything we don’t like just gets wiped out. It really is a frightening concept and we tried to capture some of that brutality and force in the music and production.

“Erase” is available to stream or download from a variety of services at https://fanlink.tv/Airbag-Erase

A lyric video for “Erase” by Crystal Media (known for their work with songwriter/producer Steven Wilson, amongst others) can be seen below

Delving into the themes of cancel culture and the rewriting of personal histories, AIRBAG’s lineup of Asle Tostrup on vocals, keyboards and programming, Henrik Bergan Fossum on drums, and Bjørn Riis on guitars, bass, keyboards and backing vocals, have, with “The Century of the Self”, created much more than just a sonic odyssey. It is a reflection of our modern zeitgeist, offering a poignant commentary on a world steeped in fear and condemnation.

As the album unfolds, it transports the listener on a voyage through introspection and intensity. Starting with the mesmerizing depths of the opening track “Dysphoria”, each of the five tracks on “The Century of the Self” captivate the listener with the irresistible vocal hooks and virtuoso lead guitar work that has become synonymous with the Airbag sound.

From the haunting crescendo of “Tyrants and Kings,” to the introspective balladry of “Awakening” we are led towards the foreboding depths of the single “Erase” with its echoes of AIRBAG’s much-acclaimed work on the album “Disconnected”.

“Erase” builds from a hypnotic bass line into a powerhouse of heavy refrains, setting the stage for the epic conclusion of “Tear it Down.” Clocking in at a staggering 14 minutes, this opus traverses serene moments of reflection towards the heaviest musical landscapes Airbag has ever produced.

Standing as a testament to AIRBAG’s enduring creativity and artistic vision, “The Century of the Self” was recorded at Subsonic Society, Airbag Studio, and Riis Studio, and expertly produced, mixed, and mastered by Vegard Kleftås Sleipnes.

With artwork by Asle Tostrup, and featuring Kristian Hultgren on bass on “Dysphoria” and “Tear it Down”, Ole Michael Bjørndal on guitar on “Dysphoria”, “Tyrants and Kings” and “Tear it Down” and Simen Valldal Johannessen on keyboards on “Tear it Down”, track listing on “The Century of the Self” is as follows:

01. Dysphoria
02. Tyrants and Kings
03. Awakening
04. Erase
05. Tear It Down

It is now available to pre-order from:

Bandcamp: https://airbagsound.bandcamp.com/album/century-of-the-self
Webshop: https://www.karismarecords.no/shop/
US Webshop: https://karismarecords.indiemerch.com/

More information about AIRBAG can be found on the band’s website at http://www.airbagsound.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/airbagsound

DARK ESSENCE RECORDS REVEALS ALBUM DETAILS AND NEW SINGLE FROM HARD ROCKERS VESTINDIEN

Posted: April 5, 2024 in DARK ESSENCE RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Bergen, Black Metal, Dark Essence Records, Hardcore, Heavy Metal, Norway, Old School Metal, Punk, rock n roll, Vestindien

When you name your band after the last known brothel (now a museum) in your home town, you’d better be able to deliver something special with your music, and without a doubt VESTINDIEN do just that with their sophomore full-length album “Verdande”.

Set for release on Dark Essence Records on the 10th of May, fans had already been given a glimpse into what to expect at the end of last year, when VESTINDIEN released a freshly mixed single even before the album was fully completed.

But now, with the album ready to go, Dark Essence Records are expanding that glimpse with a brand new single titled “Etter ilden”, a track which, according to VESTINDIEN, has undergone a series of iterations before having been deemed ready:

The demo was first written and recorded in the summer of 2021 in a location where the view from our windows was of the Urd, Skuld and Verdande mountains at Bjørnøya. It would be re-recorded several times before it finally came together as intended, at Underschön Studio in the fall of 2023.

“Etter ilden” is about taking the time to find calm and beauty in a world that is chaotic and full of suffering. We acknowledge that it is a privilege to be able to do so, whilst at the same time, we believe it is necessary to keep moving forward.

“Etter ilden” can be streamed or downloaded from a variety of sources at https://fanlink.tv/etterilden

“Verdande” comes three years on from the release of VESTINDIEN’s debut full-length “Null”, an album that served as an introduction to the band’s unique take on old-school metal but which hinted at something dark and harsh and sinister.

The fact that it was written both in a basement in Bergen, as well as on a secluded island in the Barents Sea, gives “Verdande” a unique feel, allowing its chaotic, claustrophobic underground roots to gain a more spacious, airy feel, that no doubt comes from being written out in the open sea.

With cover art by Geir Wallem and cover design by Sondre Krum Dahl, “Verdande” delivers eight tracks of psychedelic proto-metal with a gloomy twist, and whose song titles are in Norwegian, but whose lyrics are in English.

Track listing is as follows:

Humus
Evig Lys
Etter ilden
I en hule under berget
Alt vårt
Forbi stillheten
Verdande
Innover

“Verdande” will be released in Digital and LP formats, and is now available to pre-order from:

Webshop: https://darkessencerecords.no/shop/vestindien-verdande-black-vinyl/
Bandcamp: https://vestindien.bandcamp.com/album/verdande

VESTINDIEN, whose lineup today is comprised of Slettsnok on vocals, guitars and synth, Fader War and Henrik Paulsen on guitars, Karl Johan Johannessen on drums, Petter Beyer on synth and Pål Eirik Veseth on bass, was originally formed in 2009 and quickly earned itself a well-deserved reputation as an up-and-coming hardcore band with a heavy metal twist.

Their frenetic live shows gained the band a solid following, yet one year after the release of their 2011 EP “We are the Lords of Hellfire”, VESTINDIEN inexplicably called it a day. Their emergence several years later saw VESTINDIEN with a more introverted, and less hardcore and aggressive, approach to their music.

Answering only to their own their own standards and expectations, VESTINDIEN’s music today still hints at the bands hardcore roots but it has evolved into a sound that conjures up the essence of black metal, punk and old school rock’n’roll, all of which are enveloped in a dark shroud.

VESTINDIEN are confirmed to play a series of dates in the Spring. Routing as follows:

12 April: Blå, Oslo, Norway
13 April: Fängelset , Gøteborg, Sweden
19 April: Tou, Stavanger, Norway
27 April: T2, Ålesund, Norway
10 May: Landmark , Bergen, Norway

More information about the band can be found on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Vestindien/

IS IT JAZZ? RECORDS ANNOUNCES ALBUM DETAILS AND NEW SINGLE FROM INDIE-JAZZERS SHAKAI

Posted: April 5, 2024 in IS IT JAZZ? RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Bergen, Improv, IS IT JAZZ? RECORDS, Jazz, Jazz Improv, Norway, Shakai

Although SHAKAI identify themselves as an Indie-Jazz band, this is somewhat of a loose description, there for convenience rather than as a barrier to individuality, because this group of musicians would rather not be shackled by genre definitions, preferring to let their creativity run free and allow their music to speak for itself.

SHAKAI are a quintet of musicians who invite their audience to enter a world full of unexpected elements. And now Is It Jazz? Records invite that very audience to hear what they can expect from the band’s sophomore full-length “Fragments” with the release of a single taken from the album.

The single, titled “Dandelion Child” can be downloaded or streamed from a variety of services at https://fanlink.tv/dandelionchild

SHAKAI’s leader Eline Rafteseth had this to say about the song:

“Dandelion Child” is a song against injustice, written in despair during the aftermath of the 2022 terrorist attack against Pride in Oslo. The lyrics are about standing stronger together, and that love must always win.

I think this song describes some of my feelings towards all the terrible things happening in the world, and how our leaders are full of empty words but no action.

It was in 2016 that Eline formed SHAKAI, drawing on musicians from music conservatories to form a lineup that, aside from Eline (NH3, SOFT NOISE ENSEMBLE, HEAVY ASTRO) on bass and vocals, includes Elisabeth Lid Trøen (BERGEN BIG BAND, TRØEN/ARNESEN KVARTETT) on saxophones, Gabriela Garrubo (GARRUBO, METTESON, AMAILIE HOLT KLEIVE) on vocals, Simen Walle (ATARI, NELLY, MALUM) on guitars and Kenneth Kapstad (SPIDERGAWD, COBRA KRAFT, MONOLITHIC, GOAT THE HEAD, ex-MOTORPSYCHO etc.) on drums.

Whilst firmly rooted in Jazz and Improvisation, SHAKAI’s musicians are trained in a wide variety of disciplines, which, along with their varied backgrounds and experience in diverse projects, allows them to create a unique and varied sound.

The name SHAKAI itself is derived from the Japanese word for “society”, and it could be said that its members actually do form a “society” comprised of five individuals, each with their own stories and differing perspectives, and each contributing music and lyrics that touch on everything, from life’s big questions, small stories, reckonings with the past, and hopes for the future.

With “Fragments” SHAKAI have created an album that is both beautiful and raw, playful and strange. Recorded at Bergen’s Duper Studio with producers Jørgen Træen and Iver Sandøy, and with artwork by Tom Korsvold, the seven-track album is due for release on Is It Jazz? Records on the 7th June.

Track listing on “Fragments” is as follows:

1. Kanskje
2. Not Yours
3. Oh Well
4. Dandelion Child
5. Ville bare
6. Lullaby
7. Changes

“Fragments” will be released in LP and Digital formats and is now available to pre-order from:

Website: https://isitjazzrecords.no/product/shakai-fragments-black-vinyl/
Bandcamp: https://shakai.bandcamp.com/album/fragments

SHAKAI’s next live appearance will be on the 5th April at the Sogndal Kulturhus in Norway. where fans will be able to witness a band whose stage presence is one of studied ease, almost, at times, of introspection. But, rest assured, that whilst on stage there is no hint of navel gazing as the band skilfully brings its music to life, drawing the audience in and surprising them with unexpected turns.

More information about SHAKAI can be found on the band’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/shakaimusic

A video of SHAKAI playing live at Landmark in Bergen can be seen at https://youtu.be/UmnJRCU5vqE

Additional Information
SHAKAI
Facebook: www.facebook.com/shakaimusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3I4SiHR9WzNlaQo8d0izWj?si=TWH_T7hCTfabG8zYXF9-Lw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shakai.band/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuUp5Dqip-xDG91_uOVrL6g
Band Contact: shakaibooking@gmail.com
IS IT JAZZ RECORDS
Promo and other information: post@isitjazzrecords.no
Website: https://isitjazzrecords.no/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IsItJazzRecords/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isitjazzrecords/

GENRE-DEFYING DUO LETHE RELEASE NEW SINGLE FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

Posted: March 15, 2024 in DARK ESSENCE RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Dark Essence Records, Electronic, Experimental, Lethe, Metal, Norway, Pop, Sweden, Triphop

When they first got together in 2012, Tor-Helge Skei (MANES, MANII etc.) and Anna Murphy (CELLAR DARLING, ex-ELUVEITIE) had it in mind that LETHE would act as a home for their musical and artistic aspirations. Which is precisely what happened. And now, two much-admired albums later, the Swiss/Norwegian duo are ready with their third full-length album “Alienation”.

Ahead of its release on Dark Essence Records on the 26th April, a second track from “Alienation” has been released. Titled “Éternel” the single can be downloaded or streamed from a variety of services at:

https://orcd.co/eternel

Introducing the single, LETHE had this to say:

The album is pretty varied, and it’s difficult to select a few songs to represent it as a whole.. but, trying to show some different sides of it, here’s a slightly ‘sharper’ and more energetic song this time, featuring the usual suspects – Eivind Fjøseide on guitars, Tor Arne Helgesen on drums, plus Pierre Ripka on vocals… enjoy! Become Alienated!

Named after one of the five rivers of Hades in Greek mythology, LETHE was built on the premise that the music created by the duo would follow only one rule, and that is that there would be no rules, no expectations and no compromises, thus allowing the band to experiment with their sound at every possible level.

LETHE’s music is therefore quite unique and very personal. A melting pot of dark rock, pop, electronic, experimentation and metal, filled with an atmosphere that is cold and harsh and interwoven with beautiful melodies and mesmerizing grooves.

It is a sound that has variously been described as “genre-bending”, “style-bastardization”, “eclectic”, and even “just plain weird”, resulting in LETHE being able to straddle a variety of disciplines, without having to fit themselves into any one in particular. Something that has drawn fans of all kinds of genres to the band.

“Alienation” itself took longer to appear given the circumstances that affected so much new music over the past few years, and it continues to explore LETHE’s idiosyncratic soundscapes, whilst at the same time giving Tor-Helge and Anna the freedom to explore new avenues, as they explain:

The 3rd chapter of the Lethe saga is, as always, an eclectic blend of expressions and atmospheres and moods, and not many defined borders, styles or rules.. Lyrically it’s about being outsiders, outcasts, and alienated in various forms, mentally, physically, ideologic(ally).. and musically.. (hence the album title).. So, join us on another journey, a personal and alternate one..

Track listing on “Alienation”, which features guest appearances by members of ATROX, MANES, THE 3^RD and THE MORTAL, and artwork by Tom Korsvold. is as follows:

Anhedonia
Brighter
When it’s Over
Éternel
Crossroads
Sedator
Erosion
Worm

“Alienation” will be released in CD, Digital and Limited Edition Purple Vinyl formats, and is now available to pre-order from:

Webshop: https://darkessencerecords.no/shop/
Bandcamp: https://lethemetal.bandcamp.com/album/alienation
US Webshop: https://darkessence.indiemerch.com

A video for the previously released single “Erosion”, comprised of clips taken from ‘Point of Return’ (University of Oklahoma), can be seen below and at https://youtu.be/PGzLIT3K8DE

More information about LETHE can be found on the band’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LetheProject or on their website at https://torhelgeskei.com/lethe/

DOOM METALLERS BISMARCK REVEAL DETAILS AND SINGLE FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

Posted: March 7, 2024 in DARK ESSENCE RECORDS, OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASES
Tags: Black Metal, Dark Essence Records, Doom, Doom Metal, Norway, Norwegian Black Metal, Post Rock, Psychedelic, Sludge

With a trademark sound that is an uncompromising mix of sludgy riffs and psychedelic nuances, BISMARCK’s lineup of Torstein Tveiten on Vocals, Leif Herland on Guitar and Backing Vocals, Eirik Goksøyr on Guitar, Tomas Osland on Bass and Tore Lyngstad on Drums, have earned themselves a reputation as one of the heaviest bands in Norway.

With the band having completed their latest album, Dark Essence Records have today announced details of what will be BISMARCK’s third full-length release. Slated to hit the streets on the 3rd May, “Vourukasha” promises to be an amp melting form of stoner doom, combined with atmospheric post-rock, and with a hint of Middle Eastern folk music and the Norwegian black metal the band grew up listening to.

As a hint of what to expect, Dark Essence have today released a single from the album. Titled “Sky Father”, the single can be downloaded or streamed from a variety of services at:

https://link.darkessencerecords.no/Bismarck_Sky-Father

This is what BISMARCK had to say about the single:

“Sky Father” is the divine wrath, the flood to come, and the fall of man. Its aggressive nature and ferocity coming to life with the help of Aslak (Ondt Blod), as he summons the unavoidable calamity.

“Vourukasha” is an album that amply showcases BISMARCK’s music. With its exploration of western esotericism, altered states of consciousness and a mystical apocalypse, “Vourukasha’s” lyrical content acts as the perfect foil to the band’s sound, which alternates between intense, fuzzed-out heaviness, and clean, atmospheric drones.

As the band explained

“Vourukasha” is a work born from curiosity, hard work, and sheer determination. It will take you on a metaphysical journey through space and time. From the darkest depths of the sea to the endless cosmic void. Join us, and dive into the Heavenly Sea.

With artwork by Vaderetro, track listing for “Vourukasha” is as follows:

Sky Father
Echoes
Kigal
The Tree of All Seeds
Vourukasha
Ocean Dweller

“Vourukasha” will be available in CD, Digital and Limited Edition Splatter Vinyl formats and can now be pre-ordered from:

Webshop: https://darkessencerecords.no/shop/
US Webshop: https://darkessence.indiemerch.com

BISMARCK has been confirmed to appear at Oslo’s Desertfest and the Valo Rock Festival in May 2024.

More information about BISMARCK can be found at https://www.facebook.com/Bismarckdoom

A video of BISMARCK live at the Vill Vill Vest festival at USF Verftet, Bergen, Norway, in 2020 can be seen at https://youtu.be/jdTpWV43g0s?si=EyikFAW0lg290qBx

PATRICIA THOMAS BAND MANAGEMENT

Email Subscription

Patricia Thomas Band Management

NEWS

Categories

PAST NEWS

Follow me on Twitter

Posts Tagged ‘Norway’

ALTERNATIVE POP ORCHESTRA MEER REVEALS DETAILS OF UPCOMING ALBUM ALONG WITH A NEW VIDEO AND SINGLE

DETAILS OF THE THIRD OF SIX RELEASES FROM THE BACK CATALOGUE OF PROG LEGENDS WHITE WILLOW REVEALED

KARISMA RECORDS ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM FROM PSYCHEDELIC PROG FOLK ROCKERS TUSMØRKE

BLACK METAL VETERANS KOLDBRANN REVEAL DETAILS OF UPCOMING ALBUM

PROG ROCKERS AIRBAG RELEASE NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

PROG ROCKERS AIRBAG REVEAL DETAILS, NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM UPCOMING SIXTH FULL-LENGTH ALBUM

DARK ESSENCE RECORDS REVEALS ALBUM DETAILS AND NEW SINGLE FROM HARD ROCKERS VESTINDIEN

IS IT JAZZ? RECORDS ANNOUNCES ALBUM DETAILS AND NEW SINGLE FROM INDIE-JAZZERS SHAKAI

GENRE-DEFYING DUO LETHE RELEASE NEW SINGLE FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

DOOM METALLERS BISMARCK REVEAL DETAILS AND SINGLE FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

Email Subscription

NEWS

Categories

PAST NEWS

Follow me on Twitter

Posts Tagged ‘Norway’

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: