From the very first notes of “Panorama,” Hällas assert their position at the forefront of contemporary Progressive Rock. With this fourth studio album, the Swedish quintet—fresh from their first Latin American tour and seasoned by multiple North American excursions, not to mention a Swedish Grammy nomination—delivers a record that is both a consolidation of their distinctive voice and a bold expansion of what Rock can convey in the modern era. “Panorama” situates itself in a vividly imagined, dystopian landscape, where a solitary hermit surveys a world scarred by overexploitation and neglect. The album’s narrative suggests a poignant truth: no matter how far one retreats, reality inexorably follows, demanding engagement. Yet, Hällas cloak this existential meditation in the familiar yet ever-expanding language of Prog Rock—an alchemy of 70s grandeur, heavy metal heft, Folk warmth, and Psychedelic nuance. The album opens with the monumental “Above the Continuum,” a sprawling 21-minute journey that showcases Hällas’ evolutionary artistry. From a catchy, synth-forward introduction hinting at electronic textures, the track unfurls into rich, classic-prog landscapes. Interwoven guitars, lush organ and Moog lines, and an agile rhythm section navigate intricate time shifts, giving the composition both structure and expansiveness. Tommy Alexandersson’s vocals remain dynamic and commanding, providing a definitive stamp of the band’s identity throughout. Corale passages, refined solos, and a masterful interplay between instruments elevate the piece into a multi-dimensional sonic tapestry. Symphonic expansiveness and technical precision coexist seamlessly, culminating in a Heavy-Prog finale of intense, cathartic energy—an experience that promises to be devastatingly powerful in a live setting. “Face Of An Angel,” previously released as a single, offers a counterpoint with a more immediate, prog-pop sensibility. Its memorable hooks evoke the adventurous spirit of tracks like “Star Rider,” while intricate guitar and keyboard lines converse effortlessly in the midsection. The rhythm section drives the track with buoyant momentum, and the vocal lines balance warmth, dynamism, and infectious choruses, confirming its aptness as a single. The segue into “The Emissary” is marked by evocative sounds of the sea, leading into a piece that expands upon the melodic strengths of its predecessor while layering heavier textures. Catchy refrains interlace with intricate keyboard passages and electronic flourishes, crafting a soundscape that is unmistakably Hällas: Progressive, Melodic, and adventurous. Alexandersson’s expressive vocal delivery punctuates the track, alternating between impassioned choruses and soaring instrumental sections that explore the full spectrum of the band’s sonic identity. The shortest track, “Bestiaus,” diverges from the preceding material, presenting a Dark, contemplative ballad. Alexandersson’s vocals are imbued with pathos, complemented by moody piano motifs that lend the track a brooding, introspective weight. Finally, “At The Summit” closes the album with arpeggiated guitar lines gradually enveloped by lush keyboard textures. The piece evolves into a sophisticated heavy-prog journey, marked by a dynamic rhythm section, soaring vocals, and classic Hällas hallmarks: intricate time changes, layered harmonies, and rich instrumental interplay. Drawing inspiration from early 70s organ-driven Hard Rock yet refracted through a contemporary lens, the track encapsulates the band’s gift for blending epic classicism with modern sensibilities. Each phrase, tempo shift, and instrumental flourish highlights the compositional and technical prowess that has become Hällas’ signature. “Panorama” is an album that commands immediate replays; it is a record that invites the listener to immerse fully, over and over, revealing new layers and nuances with each listen. Every track, from the monumental opener to the contemplative closer, is a testament to Hällas’ mastery of both form and expression. In “Panorama,” Hällas deliver an undisputed modern Prog masterpiece, a work that solidifies their ability to infuse the epic grandeur of classic Progressive Rock with a deeply personal, contemporary voice. The album confirms the band’s unique talent for balancing technical sophistication, narrative ambition, and emotional resonance—an achievement that not only honors the traditions of the genre but propels it into new, uncharted territory. Hällas are not just preserving prog’s legacy; they are redefining its present and future.
Pre-Order “Panorama” here: https://shop.hallasband.com/
Tracklist
01. Above The Continuum (21:29)
02. Face Of An Angel (05:03)
03. The Emissary (06:44)
04. Bestiaus (04:32)
05. At The Summit (06:22)
Lineup
Tommy Alexandersson / Vocals, Bass
Rickard Swahn / Guitar
Marcus Petersson / Guitar
Nicklas Malmqvist / Keyboards
Kasper Eriksson / Drums