THE ALL IS ONE

Nyx (or Nox), the Greek and Roman goddess of the night. Nyx is often depicted as a powerful, shadowy figure representing the primordial darkness, which existed before the creation of the universe. In mythology, she was one of the first beings to emerge from Chaos, symbolizing the mysteries of the night and the unseen forces of the cosmos. Motorpsycho's The All Is One is my favorite record of the Gullvåg Trilogy, released in 2020. This album has a tremendous impact on their discography and feels like a culmination of both their artistic and musical journeys. Håkon Gullvåg's artwork complements the music visually rather than aligning with specific themes, further enhancing the sense that this is part of a larger, grand artistic project.

The All Is One offers a rich mix of styles, you can hear; Riffing heavy 70's sound, some Yes influences, Krautrock, Free Jazz and that fusion gives both the classic and experimental sides of the band. Tracks like the title song and "The Same Old Rock" instantly resonate, especially with fans of their mid-'90s sound. These familiar moments serve as a warm introduction before the album dives into more daring territory with the N.O.X. suite. This is where the album truly shines?a 42-minute, five-part journey that blends prog, free jazz, electronica, and heavy rock in a way only Motorpsycho can pull off.

1. The All Is One The album starts strong with the title track. It mixes heavy guitar and catchy melodies, setting the stage for what's to come. The lyrics talk about unity and connection, welcoming listeners to the journey.

2. The Same Old Rock This song brings back a familiar sound, reminding fans of the band's past work. It has an upbeat feel with engaging rhythms and catchy hooks. It's a fun track that makes you want to sing along.

3.The Magpie This track features a blend of melodic structures and intricate arrangements, highlighting the band's knack for crafting evocative soundscapes. The lyrics touch on themes of longing and introspection, making it both engaging and reflective.

4. Delusion This song explores the concept of perception versus reality, with a more experimental sound. The instrumentation is layered, creating a rich atmosphere that complements the lyrical themes of uncertainty and self-reflection.

5. N.O.X. (Suite) The N.O.X. suite is the heart of the album, and for me, it's what sets this record apart from the rest of the trilogy. The suite unfolds in five distinct yet interconnected movements: "Circles Around the Sun," "Ouroboros," "Ascension," "Night of Pan," and "A Little Light." It's an immersive and ambitious piece, exploring hypnotic rhythms and atmospheric shifts, creating a nearly ritualistic experience. "Circles Around the Sun" opens the suite with an eerie, meditative vibe, gradually building layers of sound. "Ouroboros" picks up with a dynamic, cyclical feel, reflecting the symbolism of the serpent devouring its tail.

"Ascension" lifts the energy higher with soaring melodies, preparing the listener for the darker intensity of "Night of Pan." This section feels like the climax, a whirlwind of frenetic drums, distorted guitars, and pulsating electronics that evoke a sense of cosmic chaos. Finally, "A Little Light" brings the suite to a calm, reflective close, leaving you in a contemplative space.

Collaborators Lars Horntveth and Ola Kvernberg add their unique touches, making the suite feel expansive, with each movement flowing seamlessly into the next. The transitions, from the ethereal "Circles Around the Sun" to the wild intensity of "Night of Pan," showcase Motorpsycho's ability to blend diverse influences without losing their core identity.

6. A Little Light This track has a lighter, more uplifting feel, focusing on hope and positivity. The melody is catchy, and the instrumentation supports a sense of warmth, making it a standout piece that contrasts with some of the heavier themes in the album.

7. Dreams of Fancy A more ethereal track, it delves into the realm of dreams and imagination. The instrumentation features lush textures, creating a dreamlike quality that invites listeners to lose themselves in its sound.

8. The Dowser This song presents a more grounded narrative, possibly touching on themes of searching and discovery. The rhythm is compelling, driving the song forward, while the lyrics encourage a sense of exploration.

9. Like Chrome This track offers a blend of heavy riffs and intricate melodies. The lyrics often reflect themes of resilience and transformation, backed by a powerful instrumental arrangement that captures the band's dynamic style.

The All Is One is essential listening for everybody that loves great music. This record is experimental, heavy, and progressive. It offers something new with every listen. The drumming is amazing, with the heavy bass leading the rhythm section. The use of mellotrons, the guitars and solos, along with all the instrumentation and execution, makes the sound superb. The production is top-notch.

For me, The All Is One is more than just a collection of songs; it's a cohesive journey. The combination of familiar sounds with bold experimentation makes the album feel complete, like the band has reached a new peak in their creative expression.

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