The Flying Norsemen
Apollon, 2024
8/10
The debut from the Norwegian quintet The Flying Norsemen, there may only be 4 tracks included, but they’re quite involved and take influence from the ‘70s.
The spacey “Norseide” opens with John Wærnes dense guitar amid Øyvind Grønn’s thumping drums for the 10+ minutes of mysterious and rich textures, and “Lystens Begjar II” follows with Terje Nyhus’ intricate bass alongside Anders Sprauten’ rhythmic guitar that suits the busy versus bare bouts.
On the back half, “PoseidiJohn” comes with a hint of darkness that comes with sci-fi exploration and Tommy Ingebrigtsen’s meticulous guitar via the timeless prog-rock, and “Lystens begjær” exits with sludgy and stoner metal nods that also leave room for melodic gestures, too.
An excellent first record that flirts with psychedelia and vocal harmonies, the giant riffs and retro-rock bursts create a unique place in the realm of prog-rock for The Flying Norsemen.
Travels well with: Arabs In Aspic- Strange Frame Of Mind; Laughing Stock- Shelter