After nearly a decade of silence, Swedish progressive rock ensemble Beardfish makes a resounding return with their ninth studio album, “Songs For Beating Hearts”. Formed in 2001, the band—comprised of Rikard Sjöblom, David Zackrisson, Robert Hansen, and Magnus Östgren—had garnered a dedicated following before their unexpected disbandment in 2016. Their reunion not only rekindles their adventurous spirit but also showcases a matured sound that reflects their personal and musical growth.
The album opens with the introspective “Ecotone”, where delicate acoustic guitar melodies intertwine with Sjöblom’s emotive vocals. The song metaphorically compares life’s journey to a river’s flow, touching on themes of inevitability and acceptance. Subtle electric guitar accents and harmonious backing vocals add depth to this melancholic yet hopeful beginning.
Embarking on an ambitious venture, the band presents the five-part suite “Out in the Open”. It commences with “Overture”, a dynamic piece filled with shifting time signatures and intricate instrumental interplay. Hansen’s compelling bass lines and Östgren’s inventive drumming lay a robust foundation for the complex arrangements. Transitioning into “Oblivion”, Sjöblom’s vocals intensify, exploring the cyclical nature of past mistakes against a backdrop of rich instrumentation.
The serene “Hopes and Dreams” offers a heartfelt respite with its pastoral acoustic ambiance. Dedicated to Sjöblom’s children, the song encapsulates the warmth of familial love with lyrics like, “Your souls live within me / The beating of your heart is mine as well.” The suite then revisits themes with “Oblivion (Reprise)”, weaving previous motifs into a cohesive narrative before concluding with the instrumental “Around the Bend”, where Zackrisson’s guitar work shines amidst the ensemble’s synchronized performance.
Continuing the album’s emotional depth, “Beating Hearts” stands as an eleven-minute epic. It begins with stirring string arrangements that give way to a fusion of dissonant guitars and powerful rhythms, reminiscent of King Crimson’s progressive explorations. Sjöblom’s vocals reach a peak of intensity, conveying profound sentiments about love and the passage of time.
A highlight of the album is “In The Autumn”, a charming duet featuring Amanda Örtenhag. The song captures the essence of change and reflection, with both voices harmonizing beautifully over intricate acoustic guitars. It’s a poignant reminder of life’s fleeting moments and the beauty found within them.
The brief interlude “Ecotone (Reprise)” brings the listener back full circle before the album culminates with “Torrential Downpour”. This track delves deep into personal territory, as Sjöblom reflects on the loss of his father. The music builds from somber beginnings to a vibrant, celebratory crescendo, emphasizing themes of legacy and the enduring bonds of love.
Throughout “Songs For Beating Hearts”, Beardfish expertly balances complexity with accessibility. The album is rich with emotional resonance, and the band’s chemistry is palpable. Hansen’s bass provides melodic undercurrents, Östgren’s percussion is both subtle and impactful, and Zackrisson’s guitar adds layers of texture and nuance.
Favorite tracks include the multifaceted “Out in the Open” suite, the deeply affecting “Beating Hearts”, and the evocative “In The Autumn”. Each of these songs highlights the band’s ability to craft intricate compositions that remain heartfelt and relatable.
The return of Beardfish with “Songs For Beating Hearts” is not just a revival but a rejuvenation. The album stands as a compelling chapter in their discography, melding profound lyrical themes with masterful musicianship.
I awarded the album a 9 out of 10 because it embodies a near-perfect fusion of technical prowess and emotional depth. Beardfish has managed to evolve their sound while retaining the core elements that define them. The compositions are intricate without being inaccessible, and the personal themes resonate strongly. The only slight reservation is that a few moments tread familiar progressive rock territory, but overall, the album is a remarkable achievement that deserves high praise.
Songs For Beating Hearts’ will be available as a Limited CD Digipak (including one bonus track), Gatefold LP & as Digital Album, all featuring artwork from longtime collaborator Spencer Keala Bowden, and can be pre-ordered now here: https://beardfish.lnk.to/SongsForBeatingHearts
The full track-listing is as follows:
1.Ecotone 04:30
2.Out in the Open 20:33
3.Beating Hearts 11:01
4.In The Autumn 05:58
5.Ecotone (Reprise) 00:43
6.Torrential Downpour 08:29
7.Ecotone – Norrsken 1982 edition (Bonus Track) 06:13
Beardfish originally formed back in 2001, and today are made up of Rikard Sjöblom, David Zackrisson, Magnus Östgren and Robert Hansen. They released eight studios albums up until their disbandment in 2016 The band are confirmed for 2025’s edition of Cruise To The Edge.
BEARDFISH online:
https://www.facebook.com/beardfish
https://www.instagram.com/beardfishofficial/
INSIDEOUT MUSIC online:
www.insideoutmusic.com
InsideOutMusic.Store
www.youtube.com/InsideOutMusicTV
www.facebook.com/InsideOutMusic
www.twitter.com/InsideOutUSA
Spotify – Prog Metal Playlist
Spotify – Prog Rock Playlist
