In academia, the monograph is king, demanding a scholar’s synthesis of diverse ideas into a unified masterpiece. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Monograf, a Norwegian post-rock ensemble, challenges this concept with their sophomore release, ‘Occultation’.
This collective, led by the multi-talented Erik Aanonsen, fuses the realms of music and academia. Aanonsen, a vocalist, guitarist, and nykkelharpa player, also wields his film scoring degree in the production of this album. Joined by Ingvill Trydal on keyboards and Sunniva Molvær Ihlhaug on fiddle, Monograf crafts cinematic soundscapes that echo the essence of Wyatt E. Yet, they infuse their music with a unique twist—the inclusion of Norwegian folk.
‘Occultation’ ventures into metal territory, incorporating doom, progressive, and extreme metal elements. The band showcases their versatility, starting songs with Om-inspired drones that evolve into intricate Opeth-like passages. Erlend Markussen Kilane’s drumming adds a dynamic layer, alternating between jazz-influenced snare work and thunderous toms. Aanonsen’s vocals, a blend of ghostly cleans and raspy shouts, add texture, though the harsh vocals may divide listeners.
Structurally, ‘Occultation’ is a well-designed dyad, with a mid-album interlude providing a respite. However, the call-and-response songwriting formula becomes apparent, potentially limiting the album’s appeal. Despite this, Monograf’s ability to create an immersive soundscape is undeniable, especially with the fiddle’s captivating melodies.
While ‘Occultation’ may not be a groundbreaking release, it demonstrates Monograf’s potential. The band’s unique blend of genres and their cinematic approach make for an engaging listen. And this is the part most critics miss—the album’s allure lies in its ability to balance hypnotism and memorability, leaving fans of drone and doom metal intrigued.
Rating: 3.0/5.0, a score that hints at the album’s promise but also acknowledges its flaws. And the controversy? Well, is Monograf’s genre-bending approach a stroke of genius or a confusing mishmash? You decide. Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s spark a conversation about the future of this intriguing band.