Wizrd - 2022 - Seasons

(43:52; Karisma Records)

Track list:
1. Lessons 4:10
2. Free Will 4:43
3. Spitfire 4:59
4. All Is As It Should Be 8:09
5. Show Me What You Got 7:44
6. Fire & Water 3:40
7. Divine 6:03
8. When You Call 4:24

Line-up:
Hallvard Gaardlös - vocals, bass
Karl Bjoraa  - guitars, vocals
Vegard Lien Bjerkan - keyboards, vocals
Axel Skalstad - drums


Prolusion.
Norwegian band Wizrd is a fairly recent addition to the progressive rock scene in Norway, with the roots of the band going back to 2018 from what I can understand. They were signed to Norwegian label Karisma Records in 2022, and in October 2022 they released their debut album "Seasons" on that label.

Analysis.
Wizrd is one of those bands that are undeniably progressive rock but pretty challenging to pigeonhole into any of the specific traditions of the style. What can be said with a high degree of certainty is that they explore a retro-oriented variety of the form, and if pushed I guess jazzrock might be a viable specification, although it is by no means a definition of the material explored on this production.

In some ways classic hard rock may be an important source of inspiration for this production. Not in terms of the actual style explored, but in terms of the approach and elements of the execution. This goes for the keyboard and organ parts in particular, with something of a Deep Purple vibe being present here and there throughout this album. But the guitars are toned down though, and while at times delivering tight motifs that may have a hard rock inspiration to them the execution is a much gentler one, and will often have a very different tone and timbre to boot.

The rhythm section in general and the drums in particular adds a fair bit of jazz to the proceedings. Expressive rhythm foundations are a key element throughout, whether they are more open, loose or relaxed or if they are tight, energetic and busy. This aspect of the material is perhaps the most impressive one for me as a listener, and most certainly elevates quite a few of the compositions here to a higher level. High quality rhythms are important for the qualities of a composition to shine through, and this album is a good example that showcase just how important that aspect of a composition is.

The vocals are melody and harmony oriented both for lead vocals and vocal harmonies, and is an excellent and elegant contrast to the busier and more expressive instrument details. We will also get a fair amount of vocals delivered in a manner that ties in with the traditions of psychedelic rock, which is an important part of that aspect of the sound explored by Wizrd, with the guitar emphasizing that aspect of the band's overall style too. As is the case with the vocals, the guitar doesn't hit the psychedelic realms in an exclusive manner, as more expressive jazz-oriented guitar motifs appear throughout as well, but fans of psychedelic rock will probably hear a bit more details of interest from the guitar department here than those with a more strict interest in material with a jazz origin or orientation. Both are present though, alongside guitar details with a bit more of a classic rock touch, sound and feel.

The open and airy compositions here, alongside with instruments that have a vintage vibe and feel to them, are explored in material that have been given a vintage touch in the mix and production department too. This sounds like an album that was made back in the first half of the 1970's and the impressions and associations goes towards a full on analogue production. I rather suspect that isn't the case of course, but that the band has chosen to make an album with a sound that comes with such associations is of course an interesting touch. I rather suspect Wizrd will see quite a few reviews with comments revolving around the album being organic sounding and remarks of a similar nature.

Conclusion.
"Seasons" is a production that have it's sights firmly set at a target some 50 years back in time, with the classic rock of that era combined with details and traditions from jazz, jazzrock and psychedelic rock to form quite the intriguing blend of elements and a compelling, high quality variety of progressive rock. The music is difficult to define, as is often the case with good music, but those with an interest in 70's progressive rock that incorporate details and traditions from psychedelic rock and jazzrock in particular should feel right at home with this album. From a personal point of view this is among the more impressive albums of 2022 I have encountered so far.

Olav "Progmessor" Björnsen, October 2022

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/WIZRDTHEBAND
https://www.karismarecords.no/