The Chronicles of Father Robin – The Songs & Tales of Airoea – Book II (Karisma Records / Old Oak Records, 2023)
The Chronicles of Father Robin recently unveiled the second installment of their progressive rock trilogy, The Songs & Tales of Airoea – Book II (Karisma Records, 2023). This Norwegian project continues to captivate listeners as it narrates Father Robin’s journey through the ancient world of Airoea.
Embarking on this epic episode, our protagonist explores the underwater city of Oriasaleah and ventures over the Sea of Ayrouhr. The narrative unfolds on the Grand Reef, where Father Robin encounters grave danger at the hands of the island people.
Starting with the mesmerizing “Over Westwinds,” a spellbinding atmospheric track rooted in the western European sacred music tradition, the album takes you on an electrifying dynamic musical journey. Book II traverses lush and varied soundscapes, conjuring visions reminiscent of the golden era of progressive rock. The talented Norwegian musicians skillfully combine finely crafted vocals inspired by Yes’ harmonies, complex rhythms echoing Gentle Giant, rich harmonies channeling Echolyn, and enchanting flute work reminiscent of Jethro Tull. Additionally, The Chronicles of Father Robin introduces a unique flavor inspired by the great Scandinavian prog-rock bands.
To illustrate the fascinating world of Airoea, a wide range of musical instruments, including flute, Mellotron, guitars, vintage organ, and glockenspiel, are incorporated alongside traditional rock instruments. This spitited and organic production transforms “The Songs & Tales of Airoea” into a gem awaiting discovery for any progressive rock enthusiast.
The Chronicles of Father Robin, a Norwegian progressive rock supergroup, includes members from some of the finest bands in Norway, Wobbler, Tusmørke, The Samuel Jackson Five, and Jordsjø. “The Songs & Tales of Airoea,” a cohesive triple concept album, has been 30 years in the making, set in an alternate world over three decades. The first installment, “Book I,” was released on September 15th, 2023.
Originating from the remnants of Fangorn in 1993-94, The Chronicles of Father Robin drew inspiration from classic bands of the early 1970s progressive music scene and contemporaries like Änglagård, Anekdoten, White Willow, and Landberk. The concept of Father Robin, embodying the band members as a collective entity, evolved over the years, intertwining challenges and development as human beings with inspiration from various mythologies.
Through extensive jam sessions and meticulous arranging, the band created a holistic system where each song seamlessly connected to others. Holistic impulsivity, altruistic friendship, music, fantasies, and a coherent concept converged in the ancient world of Airoea, making The Chronicles of Father Robin a captivating musical journey.
Musicians: Andreas Wettergreen Strømman Prestmo on vocals, guitars, bass, synthesizer, organ, glockenspiel, percussion; Henrik Harmer on drums, percussion, synthesizer, backing vocals; Regin Meyer on flute, organ, piano, backing vocals; Jon Andre Nilsen on bass, backing vocals; Thomas Hagen Kaldhol on guitars, mandolin, electronics & sound effects, backing vocals; Aleksandra Morozova on vocals.
Guests: Lars Fredrik Frøislie on keyboards, organ, Mellotron, piano, synthesizer; Kristoffer Momrak on synthesizer; Håkon Oftung o n organ, clavinet, Mellotron, strings, electric piano, synthesizer.