Airbag

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.

Airbag was formed in the mid-2000s by five high school classmates, including Asle Tostrup (vocals) and Bjørn Riis (guitars). The band released their first EP, titled “Come on” In in 2004 and a string of self-produced EPs was offered for free on their website receiving nearly a quarter of a million downloads within a few months.

The networking paid off and Airbag signed with the now prestigious Norwegian prog label Karisma Records in August 2008.

Airbag’s debut album, Identity (Karisma Records 2009) feature remixed songs from their previously released EPs. Identity received several album of the year awards, with the single, Colours, reaching top 3 on Polish national radio.

Their second album, All Rights Removed (Karisma Records 2011) saw a change in the line-up and a more mature and confident band, with Henrik Bergan Fossum behind the drums. The album features the epic seventeen minute long Homesick. A fan favourite showcasing the band’s ability to blend bombastic arrangements with ambient soundscapes.

2012 saw Airbag touring and opening for Marillion. Over the years, the band has shared the stage with several prominent names in prog, including Yes, Saga, Anathema, Pineapple Thief and Riverside. Airbag frequent some of the biggest venues in Europe and are twice returning guests at the annual Cruise to the Edge in the US.

The band’s next albums, The Greatest Show on Earth (Karisma Records 2013) and Disconnected (Karisma Records 2016) reveals a darker side of the band, with lyrics dealing with society’s destructive forces and the individual’s struggle to fit in. The ever current topics are underlined by heavier guitars and dramatic arrangements. Both albums received much praise for impressive production and musicianship.

The band’s 5th album, A Day at the Beach (Karisma Records 2020) was inspired by the resurgence of 1980s electronica, new wave and movie scores. Airbag created a powerful sound combining ethereal soundscapes with their signature guitar driven progressive rock. The result was a stunning selection of songs revealing a mature band looking forward, with an impressive legacy.