The 3rd Majesty
Apollon, 2020
8/10
The Norwegian prog-rock masters Ring Van Mobius return with a sophomore album, and the trio are in fine form as they bring hammond organ, synthesizers, theremin, timpani, bells, strings, and plenty of guitars to 4 lengthy tunes of exciting, vintage rock.
“The Seven Movements Of The Third Majesty” starts the listen with 22 minutes of spacey synth, cinematic ambience and proficient drumming where bursts of organ acrobatics and soaring vocals populate the progressive climate, and “Illuminati” follows with an equally adventurous spirit of retro-fueled rock where ethereal singing really complements the atmosphere.
The back half of the listen benefits greatly from the orchestral strings of “Distant Sphere”, as soft vocals enter a very cautious display of both firm and gentle throwback sounds, and “The Mobius Ring” exits the listen loud, busy and full of precise, playful nods to the ‘60s and ‘70s.
While there’s certainly no shortage of compelling music coming out of Norway these days, Ring Van Mobius are among the best, and this 2nd album illustrates their nostalgic and charming ways splendidly.
Travels well with: Yobrepus- Mycelium Days; Laughing Stock- The Island