Airbag - The Century of the Self (2024)

Prepare to embark on an auditory journey like no other as Norwegian prog-rock maestros Airbag unleash their highly anticipated sixth studio album, "The Century of the Self." Showcasing their trademark fusion of mellow introspection and dynamic energy, from the mesmerizing depths of "Dysphoria" to the haunting crescendo of "Tyrants and Kings," each track captivates with irresistible vocal hooks and virtuosic lead guitar work that has become synonymous with the Airbag sound. As the album unfolds, listeners are taken on a voyage through introspection and intensity, from the introspective balladry of "Awakening" to the foreboding depths of the single "Erase." Evoking echoes of their acclaimed work on the album "Disconnected," "Erase" builds from a hypnotic bassline into a powerhouse of heavy refrains, setting the stage for the epic conclusion of "Tear it Down." Clocking in at a staggering 14 minutes, this opus traverse serene moments of reflection to the heaviest musical landscapes Airbag has ever ventured. Yet, "The Century of the Self" is more than just a sonic odyssey it's a reflection of our modern zeitgeist. Delving into themes of cancel culture and the rewriting of personal histories, the album offers a poignant commentary on a world steeped in fear and condemnation. Recorded at Subsonic Society, Airbag Studio, and Riis Studio, and expertly produced, mixed, and mastered by Vegard Kleftås Sleipnes, "The Century of the Self" stands as a testament to Airbag's enduring creativity and artistic vision.