TURIST I EGET LIV

Actionfredag's debut album, Turist i eget liv (Tourist in Your Own Life), is a fresh and engaging entry in the Norwegian progressive rock scene. Featuring members from well-known bands like Tusmørke and Jordsjø, the album blends progressive rock with Canterbury jazz and folk influences, offering a sound that feels both exploratory and deeply rooted in Scandinavian musical traditions, I can hear Influences from Frank Zappa and Soft Machine as well

The album opens with "Pönk på svenska," a track powered by fuzzed-out guitars and a jazzy electric piano. The shifts in dynamics, from quieter moments to more energetic bursts, make for an exciting opening that captures the listener's attention right away.

"En behagelig durakkord som sier noe om hvordan det er å se uten å bli sett" moves in a different direction, with warm, rounded bass tones and haunting violin melodies. The vocals have a distinctly Scandinavian feel, delivering a dramatic yet restrained performance that complements the subtle instrumental layers.

Throughout the album, the band showcases their versatility. On "Gadgetry cum dystopia," they incorporate woodwinds and layer the vocals with effects, giving the track an ethereal and experimental vibe. The unexpected use of these elements keeps the album intriguing, and the constant movement between moods?from jazzy improvisations to more grounded folk moments?makes each track stand out in its own way.

The final track, "Ensomhet er bare en følelse" (Loneliness is Just a Feeling), closes the album on a contemplative note. With its rolling melody and thoughtful vocals, the song feels like the emotional core of the album, leaving a lasting impression.

Turist i eget liv is an eclectic mix of sounds and styles, It's a very fun album to listen, rewarding repeated listens with its rich layers and shifting textures. For those who like of progressive rock and 70's Avant-garde.