Meer, the Norwegian crossover prog octet, is back with their third studio album, “Wheels Within Wheels”, via Karisma Records.
Known for their lush, symphonic prog-pop sound that blends modern and nostalgic influences, this time around they present a fuller, more emotional, dramatic, and generally theatrical sound with the addition of guest musicians Andrea Brennodden Rosenlund on flute (“Come to Light”, “Mother”, “This is the End”), Lars Gärtner Fremmerlid on vibraphone (“World of Wonder”), Liv Elvira Kippersund Larsson on backing vocals (“Come to Light”), Signe Josefin Kippersund Larsson on backing vocals (“Come to Light”), and Simon Johannes Nyqvist on backing vocals (“Come to Light”).
Johanne-Margrethe Kippersund Nesdal (lead vocals, keyboards) and her brother Knut Kippersund Nesdal (lead vocals, keyboards) lead the way, accompanied by Eivind Strømstad (electric and acoustic guitars, electric baritone guitar, additional keyboards, programming), Åsa Ree (violin), Ingvild Nordstoga Sandvik (viola), Ole Gjøstøl (acoustic grand piano, keyboards, programming, electric organ, church organ), Morten Strypet (electric bass), and Mats Fjeld Lillehaug (drums, percussion).
The band’s strength lies in their dual lead vocalists, and they’re simply amazing! Johanne’s voice is a force of nature-raw, emotive, and capable of shifting from a whisper to a passionate roar in an instant. Knut, on the other hand, brings a mellifluous warmth that complements his sister’s intensity. But the most important thing of all is their amazing orchestrations! Just pick any song and give it a careful listen, and you’ll see what I’m talking about. Lyrically, the album talks about love, loss, and the passage of time. The production by Lars Gärtner Fremmerlid is full, clear, and dynamic!
It wouldn’t have been fair to differentiate one song from the other, as everyone will pick their own favorites. One thing that is crucial is that you need to listen to this album repeatedly and thoroughly… there’s more to it than meets the eye.
“Wheels Within Wheels” is not only the band’s best work to date, but also one of the top releases of 2024. It perfectly showcases their growth as musicians and songwriters in every aspect.
