OAK is a Norwegian Progressive Pop/Rock band that originally emerged from a Folk-Rock duo. The four members have a diverse background spanning from Classical Piano to Electronica, Prog and Hard-Rock, with references to the alternative scene as well as Progressive Rock something that has combined to make a distinguished and unique sound.
Out today, on Karisma Records, “The Quiet Rebellion Of Compromise” is the most dynamic OAK album so far, with a wide range of influences showing through. We’re still in very familiar OAK territory, but with some sharper edges and some surprising twists and turns. After their previous album “False Memory Archive,” the band set out to write some shorter songs for a change – and ended up with their longest songs yet. As on their other albums, there are subtle hints to both past and future songs in the OAK universe.
New album “The Quiet Rebellion of Compromise” can be streamed or downloaded from a number of services here: https://link.karismarecords.no/Oak_The-Quiet-Rebellion-of-Compromise
The album itself is the perfect example of what results when a group of musicians from diverse backgrounds get together to make music. With a skill set that ranges from Classical Piano, to electronica, to Prog and Hard-Rock, OAK‘s lineup of Simen Valldal Johannessen on vocals, piano and keys, Øystein Sootholtet on bass, acoustic and electric guitars, Sigbjørn Reiakvam on drums, percussion, programming, keys and guitars, and Stephan Hvinden on lead, rhythm and slide guitars has been able to produce a sound that weaves its way through both the Alternative and the Progressive Rock scenes.
Easily OAK‘s most dynamic album to date “The Quiet Rebellion of Compromise” presents a sharper edge than its two predecessors. With some surprises along the way, the sound is still unmistakably OAK, and offers a subtle insight into what went before, and what is yet to come, from the band.
What makes this album extra special though, is its subject matter – the frequently misunderstood issue of mental health with a focus on suicide. But to be very clear OAK have eschewed the temptation to fall into the “sensationalist” way of looking at these matters. Instead they have treated these controversial subjects with the respect and sympathy they deserve, seeking advice from experienced scholars in order that the message comes across clearly.
OAK‘s painstaking efforts with “The Quiet Rebellion of Compromise” are even reflected in the cover design, which is by Remi Juliebø / Deformat. Based on the death mask of an unknown drowning victim from 1880s Paris, known as “L’Inconnue de la Seine“, Anne-Marie Forker‘s photography is a poignant reference to the album’s subject matter, whilst the font itself is partially based on the handwriting from two real suicide notes.
Recorded in Ljugekroken and mixed at the Ghostward Studio by David Castillo (Katatonia, Leprous Opeth, etc.) “The Quiet Rebellion of Compromise” was mastered by Tony Lindgren at the Fascination Street Studio.
“The Quiet Rebellion Of Compromise” is available in CD, Digital and Limited Edition white vinyl formats, and can now be ordered here: https://www.karismarecords.no/kar225-oak-the-quiet-rebellion-of-compromise/
Tracklist:
1. Highest Tower, Deepest Well
2. Quiet Rebellion
3. Dreamless Sleep
4. Sunday 8 AM
5. Demagogue Communion
6. Paperwings
7. Guest of Honour