Ring Van Möbius – Firebrand (Apollon Records Prog, 2025)
Norwegian keyboard-centric progressive rock trio Ring Van Möbius returns with Firebrand, a final full-length on Apollon Records Prog, scheduled for release on October 3, 2025. The album concludes the group’s catalog with three long-form compositions.
It is no secret that this band is heavily influenced by Emerson Lake and Palmer and western classical music. The three extensive tracks on this album are full or high energy progressive rock with keyboards leading the way, supported by a fabulous, inventive rhythm section.
Like Keith Emerson, Thor Erik Helgesen is a keyboard wizard who uses an arsenal of synths, piano, organ and much more to deliver a marvel of keyboard arrangements, spectacular solos and interplay with his bandmates. His colleagues are equally good musicians and use a wide range of instrumentals as well, making the listening experience even more attractive.
The band describes the record as a capstone made in spontaneous sessions at the analog Spectral Tape Studio, “a tremendous finale,” aimed at ending “on top of our game while still having fun.” Indeed, Firebrand is a fun and highly enjoyable album.
I’m sorry to see this band go, although I’m hopeful that these musicians will continue in other progressive rock incarnations. It is important to note that, together with Italy, Norway has become one of the focal points of the most interesting, metal-free, progressive rock made in Europe.
Musicians: Thor Erik Helgesen on vocals, Spectral Modular Synthesis System, Hammond L100, Steinway grand piano, Fender Rhodes piano, Yamaha upright piano, Mellotron, Yamaha YC-20, tape flanging, tape-loops through Korg MS20; Dag Olav Husås on tubular bells, timpani, chimes, drums, glockenspiel, gong, cymbals; and Håvard Rasmussen on Fender Electric Bass VI, Roland Space Echo, Moog Ring Modulator, Geilo flathead screwdriver, cello bow.
Recorded and produced by Helgesen/Husås/Rasmussen at Spectral Tape Studio.
Mixed by Helgesen/Husås. Mastered at Lunds Lyd by Morten Lund.
Art, layout, typography, and design by Hypnotist Design.
Buy Firebrand.