HINTERLAND

As if they had fallen out of time in the Prog space continuum, somehow in contact with the eternal Prog spirits and unabashedly retro, this Norwegian quintet is doing something remarkable; making classic Progressive Rock with authority and authenticity. These boys summon the ghosts of Gentle Giant, ELP, Rick Wakeman and Jethro Tull with healthy shots of Bo Hansson, King Crimson and even Black Sabbath in a sacred ceremony of mellotron, baroque guitar, Arp synths, heavy riffs and Renaissance rounds that feverishly invoke the Anglo/European progressive scene at its zenith. They also carry on a fine Norse tradition as they conquer the great music of the past, and should be a part of every serious listener's collection.

The band is led by Lars Fredrik Froislie and his barrage of keys and warcraft including a Wurlitzer, Hammond C3, clavinet, reed organ, Minimoog, Grand Piano, harpsichord, Stylophone, and something called a Solina string ensemble. Martin Kneppen (drums) and Kristian Hultgren (bass) support on rhythm, Morten Andreas Eriksen handles a range of acoustic and electric guitars, and Tony Johannessen croons. The album has a few weak moments, the singing leaves much to be desired, the mix could be much better and at times the work is derivative. However, music like this isn't made anymore and these flaws are easily forgiven. Like an opening act that ends up blowing away the headliner, Wobbler may wobble but they don't fall down. Get yours before they wobble right out of your life.