OAK – The Quiet Rebellion Of Compromise (2022)
OAK is a Norwegian progressive pop/rock band where the four members have a diverse background spanning from ’80s rock&pop and hard rock to elaborated neo progressive rock – something that has combined to make a distinguished and unique sound.
“The Quiet Rebellion Of Compromise” is their brand new album, a dynamic collection of songs with interesting lyrics and expansive melodies, but with some sharper edges and surprising twists and turns. While their music belong to the ‘song format’, OAK is not afraid to long compositions however with a pop/rock sensibility that makes think you’re listening a song into another.
This is a near perfect collection of songs where every track is a a complete work of art, from the hard-hitting opening trio of the dynamic Highest Tower, Deepest Well, the sparse, plaintive and melancholic Quiet Rebellion and the grandiose, compelling and potent Dreamless Sleep to the epic splendor and Pomp of my personal favorite Paperwings, this is an intense and profound emotional journey.
Add in Sunday 8 AM, a beautifully judged near six minutes of music that sees vocalist Simen Valldal Johannessen at his most touching and emotive and the harder edged rock of the charismatic Demagogue Communion and this is a thoughtful, often melancholy, delight of an album and, when you come to the wishful and reflective whimsy of album closer Guest of Honour, it is almost like saying goodbye to a close friend with whom you have had a life changing experience.
OAK have a unique, innovative sound. Their approach to Rock variants is refreshing and sees them deliver meaningful music that has heart and soul and, with ‘The Quiet Rebellion of Compromise’, these talented musicians have created an accomplished and consummate piece of work.
Highly Recommended
01 – Highest Tower, Deepest Well
02 – Quiet Rebellion
03 – Dreamless Sleep
04 – Sunday 8 Am
05 – Demagogue Communion
06 – Paperwings
07 – Guest of Honour
Simen Valldal Johannessen – vocals, keys
Sigbjorn Reiakvam – drums
Oystein Sootholtet – bass
Stephan Hvinden – guitars
BUY
www.nuclearblast.com/eu/oak-the-quiet-rebellion-of-compromise-cd-1060235
