Now this is something else entirely and I might as well start out by telling you that this Norwegian outfit’s sophomore effort entitled “Mycelium Days” is a progressive-sounding gem with a wonderfully cinematic vibe to it and yet its compositions are so introspective that they will inevitably get under your skin and stir every fiber in your body.

Deeply atmospheric soundscapes and haunting textures move and flow from one point to the next seamlessly while warm, introspective vocals infuse the songs with a strong sense of melancholy. The LP does look to the past in that one can easily detect some awe-inspiring influences that include late 60s and early 70s prog rock works by pioneers such as Pink Floyd and King Crimson. This primarily pertains to some of the riffs and melodies as well as the superb use of mellotron, but more than anything this record is the sound of a highly talented act looking to the future and leaving their own unique mark on the (progressive) post-rock genre. In other words, “Mycelium Days” transcends and even defies categorization, and a rigid summary of what this fabulous album sounds like is essentially a redundant and rather futile exercise.

 

There are some truly interesting dynamics in play throughout its six tracks and it is a captivating piece of work that is as emotionally (in)tense as it is rewarding to immerse oneself in. I do feel the need to emphasize just how brilliant the tunes “What If…” and album closer “Piao” are, but the fact is that the whole damn thing is a mesmerizing listen and that you owe it to yourself to listen to this glorious opus from beginning to end and preferably many times in a row. The only cut that pales ever so slightly compared to the others is "Down" but other than that I have no complaints whatsoever. And before I forget, do not forget to inspect and close-read the evocative lyrics too!

https://yobrepus.bandcamp.com/