So, I am imagining that in the early days of Metal masters BLACK SABBATH, and seminal Progressive rockers GENTLE GIANT, the bands met up in a pub in Norway, knocked back a few pints, and, somehow, procreated... It is the only logical explanation for the entity known as MOTORPSYCHO. In reality, the band was formed in the late eighties as an Alternative Metal trio, by multi-instrumentalists Bent Saether, Hans-Magnus Ryan, and drummer Kjell Runar Jenssen.  Since that time, they have become one of the most versatile, prolific and inspirational forces in the history of popular music; having over fifty releases, including live sets, Eps and collaborations, to their credit. They have inspired countless artists in that time, as well; including the band KRYPTOGRAF, which I was fortunate to review last year.

MOTORPSYCHO changed direction toward the year 2000, opting for a jazzier, somewhat more progressive feel in their music. With the release of "Let Them Eat Cake", the changes really became apparent, and the band has carried that delivery throughout the last two decades. They have, over the years, become a much more experimental band, with the more progressive leanings and psychedelic delivery becoming an integral part of their sound. With the release of "Kingdom Of Oblivion", the follow up to last year's "The All Is One", we find them returning more to their Heavy Metal roots; and although there are several lighter genres represented throughout this massive, twelve song release, the heavy overtones ring true. Being a tad unfamiliar with their earlier works, I am making a point to go back into their first several releases, just to get a better grasp on just how truly versatile...and, ultimately, amazing...MOTORPSYCHO really is.

There are several cuts on this record that I would deem worthy of touching upon, because the entire record is quite amazing. The second song, and one of the most striking tracks on the album, is the title cut, "Kingdom Of Oblivion". With an intro that sounds like it could have been at home on a mid-seventies U.F.O. record, the song gives way to a beautiful vocal. From the heavier intro, it opens into a more psychedelic feel in the verses and chorus; however, it retains that heavy guitar riff throughout, offering a great, melodic guitar solo and some free form jazz inspired breaks toward the end of the song.

One other track I will cover here is the almost eleven minute musical odyssey known as "The Transmutation Of Cosmoctopus Lurker". I don't know that I have ample words to fully describe the musical depth put forth on this track; but suffice it to say, the song effectively covers almost any genre the band has been known to dabble in. The guitar tones are heavy, and Jarmyr (who joined the band in 2017) certainly holds his own with some amazing drum work, including some tasty time signature changes.

This release, as I have already alluded to, is an amazing piece of work. Longtime fans of the band should find great pleasure here, and newcomers, who possess and adventurous musical soul, will find it a gateway to brilliance. If you are in the latter group, take heed... you have a lot of work to do.