Detailed Reviews [Jordsjo - 2021 - "Pastoralia"]

Prolusion. Norwegian band JORDSJO was formed back in 2014, and have released 5 studio albums in fairly quick succession since their formation. "Pastoralia" is the most recent of these, and was released through Norwegian label Karisma Records in the spring of 2021.

Analysis. When it comes to retro-oriented progressive rock, that is a style of music Jordsjo have specialized in from their very first album, and they continue to explore this type of music this time around as well. They have expanded their palette however, and on this occasion they have crafted compositions that structurally may well be their most expansive yet. Much the same can be said of the variety between the songs and in the individual songs. Folk music is a vital inspiration, and elements of that style of music can be heard throughout, from clear cut folk melodies and instruments to more of a retro-oriented variety of progressive rock of the kind Jethro Tull used to explore back in the day. Elements from jazz have been brought into the compositions as well, and some of the many highlights of the album is to hear how elements from folk music and jazz combine in elegant and moving manners. Atmospheric laden keyboards, Mellotron and organ are brought into the mix too of course, used for both delicate details as well as to conjure rich, layered passages most fans of classic era symphonic progressive rock will love and cherish. And while the guitars often are acoustic or clean sounding, there's liberal amounts of what I'd describe as psychedelic guitar solo runs and effects spread throughout this album as well, further expanding the palette used and enriching the landscapes explored. Various reeds and strings have been added to the instrumentation side of things too, adding some haunting touches to the songs where they have been applied. The totality here is a sound that is if not unique then at least one few others explore these days. Distinctly retro-oriented, but just as distinctly not sounding too much like anyone else in the past or the present that I am aware of. Many possible references can be picked up while listening through of course, with certain small details or passages resembling the likes of Jethro Tull and Bo Hansson for instance, and there's a tiny little organ detail on one of the songs that possibly can be a slight tip of the hat in the direction of the late Jon Lord as well. Those with a keen interest in classic era progressive rock bands can probably find quite a few additional familiar sounding details lurking here and there. But the total context here is one I'd say is very much of Jordsjo's own creation and with something of a signature sound.

Conclusion. "Pastoralia" is an album it is easy to like. The compositions are by and large fairly challenging, with many twists and turns back and forth, but they remain songs that are easy to listen to as well. The songs are compelling and inviting too, there's no threshold you need to climb over to enjoy the sounds, the moods and the atmospheres provided. A strong production on all levels, one that fans of classic era symphonic progressive rock probably will love and cherish and many other with a general interest in well made progressive rock will enjoy immensely.

Progmessor: July 2021
The Rating Room