Album Review: Hällas – Conundrum
Reviewed by Jon Wigg
Now I like me a bit of prog rock every now and then. I’ve even been partial to the odd Hawkwind show over the years. So Conundrum by Swedish ‘Adventure Rockers’ Hällas peaked my interest from the first bars of intro track ‘Ascension’. Taking inspiration from various 70’s rock luminaries such as Yes, Wishbone Ash and Rush, this trip through the cosmic world of Hällas is a magical journey through prog, folk, funk and psychedelia that left me wanting more.
During the first few tracks I admit to struggling to get into the vocals of Tommy Alexanderson. It wasn’t that there is anything wrong with them, but they just took a bit of getting used to, especially during opener ‘Beyond Night and Day’. An upbeat start with a funky bassline (also provided by Alexanderson) and trippy synth parts from Nicklas Malmquist, the vocals almost don’t fit in, but acclimatisation didn’t take long, and the vocals really do fit so well into this style.
At the end of this first track, I did check my device and make sure I hadn’t skipped to Jeff Wayne’s War of The Worlds – you'll have to take a listen and see what I mean. Second track ‘Strider’ is slower paced, and the vocals really start to soar, as do the twin guitars of Marcus Peterson and Alexander Moraitis. ‘Tear of a Traitor’ bangs along with a lovely pace and the drum work from Kasper Eriskon stands out. ‘Carry On’ has a more 1980’s feel and a sing along chorus.
The final 3 tracks are the longest, all clocking in at over seven minutes each and this is where Hällas really shine. ‘Labyrinth of Distant Echoes’ starts with an amazing section from Alexanderson before the prog kicks in with full effect. Beautifully layered and structured, this for me was the standout track in an excellent album. ‘Blinded by the Emerald Mist’ similarly takes the listener on a journey and it really does feel like Hällas are telling proper stories both through the lyrics and the music. Closer ‘Fading Hero’ again has a more 80’s rock feel before a funky feel kicks in during the second half.
An excellent album throughout with no real weak points, this will be one to return to when there's a need a journey through time and space to get away from the daily grind.
Hällas release 'Conundrum' via Napalm Records on March 20th
