Oberst - Paradise - LP

The Oslo-based hardcore/metal act Oberst blends their many influences seamlessly into a unique sound, be it hardcore, post metal, progressive metal and rock. Their huge, warm and atmospheric riffs meet hectic, catchy elements driven by intense and at times manic vocals. Originally formed around the mutual interest in music rather than any particular genre, the band later found common ground in bands like Mastodon, Baroness, Converge and Cult of Luna.
However, influences that are unique to each of the members has become just as defining, ranging from classic rock and jazz to modern pop. The release of their self-titled debut EP was met with critical acclaim and praised as «some of the best metal produced in Norway for a long time» (HISSIG). The singles from the EP got played and recommended on national radio and featured on the acclaimed Norwegian tv series «Unge Lovende». The band has since played numerous shows with bands such as Tempel, Ondt Blod, Attan and Halcyon Days.
After working on their debut album «Paradise» for about three years and producing it themselves, the band has been signed to Indie Recordings for worldwide release. Guitarist Dennis Estensen comments: «The process of making this album took a lot of effort and a long time for us. I feel we really took a giant leap from our debut EP in terms of songwriting and production. We’re really proud to finally release it to the world, and even more proud to get this out with Indie Recording behind the release. I feel this record is going to sound fresh and exiting for a lot of people, not just for the typical rock & metal-fan».
The concept of «Paradise» deals with themes of the pre-apocalyptic sort, and tells of escape from dystopia and utopia alike, friendship, hate and love. From the band members viewpoint, the record is a glance at the current state of the world and how it has been the last 5 years. The story revolves around a group of people, fleeing from their assailants. Sickened by the state of their world, they construct a vessel called the «Dreambeast» and attempt a journey to a new one. Sound-wise the album refines and focuses what the band has been doing for years; Mixing huge riffs with tons of raw emotion and atmosphere, progressive elements that will make your head spin and catchiness beyond measure.
But the most impressive thing about it is the blend and the nuances of all this. Singer Tarjei Kristoffersen comments: «All our influences really came into their own on this record. It’s without gimmicks and rather just one consistent sound throughout, even though the album has a lot of really different types of songs, you know». Mixing and mastering of the album was handled by Stamos Koliousis (Djerv, Fight The Fight, The New Death Cult)