Ambrosius are an Oslo, Norway based band who have just found themselves on my radar thanks to the release of their debut album. A twelve track collection that cements and expands their sound in equal measure, it’s called Pathways.
By Graeme Smith
Feature photo by Linnea Backe
Ambrosius are Ivan Andreassen, Nils Bendik Kvissel, Fredrik Lerdahl, Ivar Grytten, and Bjorn Olaf Vatzlavik. Their debut album Pathways is a reflection on the rich tapestry of life, telling stories that may not be obvious or comfortable but nonetheless need to be told.
It opens with its lead single Shadow Logic and it’s a lively start. A cantering beat leads to a bombastic instrumental moment before we settle into a simmering verse with soulful vocals. With great use of rise and fall, the track is a textually-interesting one, and is insanely catchy. It’s a vibrant and welcoming opener which sees a pleasing mix of genres.
Broken Bones brings together folk with rock and tells the story of our human vulnerabilities. Align is a sultry and searching indie rock moment with a beautifully rich instrumental soundscape. Noel’s Caravan (Interlude) is a mellow and atmospheric skit, and dedication to radio theatre. It bleeds seamlessly into the rousing drinking song Open Tab. Its warmth and raw energy makes it a highlight.
Goodbye slows things down a little with a wistful bit of heart-wrenching blues. Hollywood Babeism brightens things again with a powerful pop rock number that would fit in the ’80s as much as it does 2024. Nancy Tales takes things in a swaggering, funky and jangly direction that will have you moving along. It’s another highlight.
Razor Burn has some wonderfully descriptive lyrics and combines some down and dirty folk with cinematic elements. A Colm Sunset is a meditative moment of country-infused rock. Star’s Archive gives some timeless-feeling philosophy with a big finish before Anach Cuian closes the album. Ambrosious’s take on an ancient Irish folk song, it’s an unexpected twist of experimentation right at the end and proves just what a diverse album this debut is.
You can give Pathways a listen below.
