Bjørn Riis, Fimbulvinter (Digisleeve CD)

Named after the legendary long winter that heralds Ragnarok—a time of both destruction and rebirth—Bjørn Riis’ new album, Fimbulvinter, is a profound and deeply personal work. Drawing from his own experiences with anxiety, Bjørn explores themes of hopelessness, paranoia, and despair, ultimately finding a spark of hope and gratitude in the darkness. “This isn’t an autobiographical album,” Bjørn explains, “but I wanted to share parts of my own journey and address a subject that I feel is both deeply important and still somewhat taboo.”

Musically, Fimbulvinter reflects Bjørn’s diverse influences, blending the atmospheric and introspective tones of progressive rock with the energy and swagger of the hard rock bands he grew up with in the early ’80s. Fans of Kiss, Black Sabbath, and classic progressive acts will find much to love in the album’s rich soundscapes. From the driving, anthemic energy of “Gone”—a track made for blasting on the open road—to moments of introspection and monumental heaviness, Fimbulvinter is a dynamic journey through darkness and light.

Bjørn takes center stage on the album, performing all instruments and vocals, while also enlisting contributions from talented collaborators, including Henrik Bergan Fossum (Airbag), Arild Brøter (Pymlico), and Kai Christoffersen on drums. Longtime partner and co-producer Vegard Kleftås Sleipnes also returns, ensuring the album’s production is as impeccable as its compositions.

With Fimbulvinter, Bjørn Riis once again demonstrates why he is a cornerstone of the progressive rock scene, delivering music that is as emotionally resonant as it is sonically captivating.