KINGDOM OF OBLIVION

The Trilogy Part 4? After their amazing Gullvåg Trilogy (The Tower 2017, The Crucible 2019, The All Is One 2020), Motorpsycho became one of the biggest names in progressive rock, joining the major leagues. Honestly, I didn't think they could do anything better after that trilogy. I even thought they might take a break or just go on tour. But in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, everything changed. Motorpsycho went back to the studio, revisiting old songs and creating new material, but this time with a heavier, doom-influenced sound mixed with their usual prog style.

Kingdom of Oblivion, After years of reinventing themselves, the band once again finds fresh ways to mix their influences while still staying ahead of the game. The sound is thick and intense, pulling you in with raw, heavy riffs and giving you moments of softer, more thoughtful music. What stands out is how they mix the heavy with the intricate, keeping things interesting while still packing a punch.

The album starts with "The Waning Part 1 & 2," showing that the band still knows how to mix atmosphere with energy. The riffs hit hard but also add a sense of depth and feeling. Motorpsycho is great at balancing smart ideas with raw power, and this song shows that off.

The title track, "Kingdom of Oblivion," turns up the heaviness with a big, powerful sound that feels both huge and controlled. This is where the album's layers really shine, mixing electric and acoustic instruments to create contrasts between heavy and light. Songs like "Lady May 1" show off C.S.N influence that recalls the early '70s without sounding old-fashioned.

Like most Motorpsycho albums, there are plenty of surprises. Their cover of Hawkwind's "The Watcher" fits perfectly, capturing the dark, spacey vibe while blending into the album's story. "Dreamkiller" is a standout too, starting softly with acoustic guitars and then building into something much heavier. The changes in mood keep you hooked as the album moves through different emotions.

"At Empire's End" is a massive track. It draws on folk influences and grows into a grand, Mellotron-driven rhythm that feels larger than life. The song has space to breathe, with long instrumental sections that really grab your attention. Listening to it with headphones is a must to catch all the little details.

The album ends with "Cormorant," a reflective and thoughtful song. After all the intensity before it, this track closes the album in a more peaceful way, giving you time to reflect on the journey. The album flows like a story, with each song playing a part in the bigger picture.

One of the strengths of the record is its excellent production. The sound is amazing, the mix is top-notch, and the incredible artwork was created by Sverre Malling, a Norwegian artist known for his detailed and often surreal illustrations.

Even after 30 years, Motorpsycho's creativity hasn't slowed down. The band may not have broken into the U.S. or U.K. mainstream, but they've built their own unique space, where fans know they'll always get something new and exciting. Definitely worth a listen for anyone who loves heavy, progressive rock that's not afraid to get a little wild.

Kingdom of Oblivion is a big show and a snapshot of where Motorpsycho is at the moment, with songs driven by Mellotron, distorted passages, and amazing harmonies, blending folk influences. The record leaves a great impression and became in another essential masterpiece from Motorpsycho.

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