by Geoff Bailie
When I saw Dim Gray in Aylesbury in 2022, they had just released their second album, Firmament. That album had been recorded by Håkon Høiberg, Tom Ian Klungland, and Oskar Holldorff, who also played keys for Big Big Train that evening before eventually joining that band as a full member. At that show, the live line-up included Kristian Kvaksrud on bass and Milad Amouzegar on guitar and keys—both of whom are now full-time members and contributors to the new album, Shards.
Hailing from Norway, Dim Gray’s sound certainly fits within the definition of prog, drawing from a variety of influences, sounds, and structures to create something unique. However, there are no capes, narrative concept albums, or 40-minute epics—their music maintains a modern feel that stands comfortably alongside bands like Keane, Coldplay, and one of The Prog Report’s favourites from 2024, MEER.
“Defiance” is a great entry point to the album, beginning with an ambient intro before Holldorff’s pure voice comes in, shifting effortlessly from gentle to powerful as needed. As the song progresses, the band’s dynamics and energy build, taking the listener on a journey to its magnificent ending. While no album should be judged by a single song, this is the perfect introduction for a potential new listener—before the next track mixes things up!
The electronica-infused “Myopia” kicks off with a guest appearance by Norwegian indie-pop singer Vaarin, who takes the lead and duets with the band. Here, the modern blends with the ancient as Milad Amouzegar plays the santoor—an Indian instrument resembling a hammered dulcimer—alongside orchestral-style keyboard backing. The duet perfectly complements the lyrics, which, though somewhat oblique, suggest a relationship ending or transitioning onto a different path.
The next track, “Murals,” was first released as a work in progress on Bandcamp in March 2024. Written and sung by Håkon Høiberg, the song weaves elements of Norwegian folk music into a rock tapestry. The result is a unique sound that feels distinctly Dim Gray yet has an affinity with Celtic music and rhythms. Once again, the band shifts direction, adding another layer to this unfolding musical journey.
“Feathers” moves into orchestral territory, with Oskar delivering a song of loss and abandonment. What’s striking throughout the album is the balance between atmospheric, almost post-rock soundscapes and deeply melodic, memorable songwriting.
A notable aspect of Dim Gray is that, while they’ve proven themselves as a compelling live act, their albums aren’t simply crafted as a five-piece rock band jamming in a room. Instead, atmosphere, minimalism, and sonic breadth take precedence over mindless shredding. A track like “Mooneater” sweeps the listener along its journey, while the more pop-influenced “Peril” provides a sharp contrast. On this track, Oskar and Håkon share lead vocals over a memorable guitar riff and propulsive rhythms. To me, this is the kind of song that, if it reached the right ears, could bring the band the wider recognition they deserve.
“Little One” shifts from fragile delicacy to a bombastic midsection, demonstrating Dim Gray’s ability to transition seamlessly between the subtlest sounds and the most powerful moments with ease. The brief piano-and-strings interlude, “Shards from a Broken Crown,” feels like a lead-in to the closing 10-minute track, “Attakulla.” Lyrically, the album’s opener, “Defiance,” explores the frustration of repetitive tasks and patterns, while “Attakulla” reflects on procrastination—the repetition of not taking action. The song’s closing section, with its soaring violin lines, rolling piano, tribal drums, and Oskar’s breathtaking vocals, is simply stunning.
At the end of 2023, Dim Gray released the Live in Europe 2023 EP, showcasing how well their material translates to the stage. With Shards, they’ve channelled that energy and dynamic live sound into their most fully realised album yet. The breadth of styles, emotions, and lyrical themes surely make this a contender for year-end lists—but don’t wait for those. Grab a copy now and enjoy this superb album.
Released on Feb 28th, 2025
https://linktr.ee/dimgraymusic
Tracklisting:
1. Defiance
2. Myopia
3. Murals
4. Feathers
5. Mooneater
6. Peril
7. Little One
8. Shards From A Broken Crown
9. Attakulla
DIM GRAY
Oskar Holldorff-Vocals, Keyboards
Håkon Høiberg-Guitars, Vocals
Kristian Kvaksrud-Bass
Milad Amouzegar-Guitar, Keys, Santour
Tom Ian R. Klungland-Drums, Vocals
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