The Third Sleep
Karisma, 2025
9/10
This 4th album from Norway’s Oak explores both light and darkness, where societal complacency and individual turmoil are soundtracked by raw, progressive, and diverse bouts of prog-rock.
The flowing, melodic rock of “No Such Place” opens with Simen Valldal Johannessen’s smooth voice alongside Steinar Refsdal’s rich saxophone and the dynamic rhythm section, and “London” follows with Sigbjorn Reiakvam’s thumping drums and Johannessen’s mature keys that mesh well with the buzzing versus harmonic textures.
In the middle, the darker spirit of “Shimmer” benefits much from Oystein Sootholtet’s precise bass amid the powerful and expressive landscape, while “Shapeshifter” welcomes Dave Foster’s soulful guitar to the intimate and sometimes tense song craft that’s pretty, poetic and crunchy.
“Sensory Overload” is the last track and it’s also great. Stephen Hvinden’s meticulous guitar is much appreciated, as are the sophisticated keys, well placed dreaminess and intricate musicianship.
An eclectic body of work that embraces electronica, classical, folk and metal, Oak’s vision of prog-rock is nothing short of fascinating, and makes an immediate and lasting impression.
Travels well with: Lars Fredrik Frøislie- Gamie Mester; Meer- Wheels Within Wheels