WIDE AWAKE BUT STILL ASLEEP

Second album offered by this outfit hailing from Norway, released on Karisma Records in the same way. While including a bunch of catchy songs their debut from 2016 already runs like a dynamic affair. The line up hasn't changed, would be interesting to know whether they are able to keep that level. Or if there is a new approach available probably? Again this partially bears a slight jazzy touch due to the epic groove and Jonas Særsten's keyboards. Soundwise tending towards fellow countrymen Elephant9 for example. The mellotron seems to have a more important role now, the title track immediately presents what I mean. A fulminant take off, I really love this. And they will continue in that manner. H.M.S: Death, Rattle And Roll shines with fine multiple guitar work.

Uups! Furthermore you may stumble upon the song title Steely Dan. I tried to obtain references, eh, please give me a clue. Well, another lovely tune indeed with proper vocal attendance. The relatively short Magnets then defines all the band's qualities at once, the psychedelic approach, the enormous groove, great dynamics, fine vocals, prolific songwriting. Giorgious! Traveller marks the longest track here, with a gripping flow, wonderful sparkling electric piano. When the body wants to sleep ... the album title comes as a contradiction somehow. I definitely will go for the first part of this weird statement. Great production, absolutely essential, the spirit stays. 'Wide Awake But Still Asleep' is a matured album, no question.

Norwegian band SHAMAN ELEPHANT have been around since 2015 and thereabouts, and was signed to Norwegian label Karisma Records for their debut album "Crystals" the following year. The band have stayed on with the label, and this year they returned with their second studio album "Wide Awake But Still Asleep".

Retro-oriented hard, psychedelic progressive rock is what Shaman Elephant provides on "Wide Awake But Still Asleep", and a variety of this kind of music that is arguably explored in a more modern and contemporary manner. A band that should appeal to those who love and treasure this kind of music as it was made way back when, but also a band that should find fans among those who listen to newer bands such as Motorpsycho - the latter also name-dropped by Shaman Elephant themselves on their Facebook page.