ACTIONFREDAG

With Lys fremtid i mørke, Actionfredag offers their second release, with their radiate signature Swedophile and Canterbury-inspired style, a sound that defies the darker, moodier trends in modern prog. The band boldly crafts a sound that feels open and personal Despite sounding similar to many 70's British prog bands Actionfedag sounds incredibly original. The arrangements have that unique analog warmth, supported by an eclectic ensemble of instruments, including oboe, violin, recorders, and French horn, creating a lush, multi-layered soundscape. The expanded lineup of guest musicians adds depth and color, enhancing each track with new textures and tones that build on the creativity of their debut album.

The album balances sophistication capturing the essence of Actionfredag influences. Each track oscillates between whimsy and introspection, combining nostalgia with innovation to breathe new life into their sound. They draw on the progressive rock foundations with a fresh and new psychedelic edge.

Lys fremtid i mørke is a captivating album from start to finish, reaching creative heights with rhythmic finesse and melodic inventiveness that invite listeners to sink into its sonic world. This is music for refined ears, with passages that recall classical inspirations from Debussy and Satie, while staying true to prog's exploratory spirit. As a follow- up to Turist i eget liv, this album showcases Actionfredag's impressive output.

The record's simplicity and perfectly arranged tracks demonstrate their ability to captivate with an original sound, avoiding pretension or imitation. They simply enjoy making music without trying to fit in, capturing a pure, fun approach to their craft.

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.