Oak is a Norwegian Progressive Pop/Rock act formed almost a decade ago whose members come from diverse musical backgrounds that span classical piano to Electronica, Alternative and Hard Rock, plus Progressive Rock. The core trio of Simen Valldal Johannessen, Øystein Sootholtet and Sigbjørn Reiakvam write, record and produce their songs, with guitarist Stephan Hvinden completing the line-up.
The quartet self-released a debut album entitled “Lighthouse” in 2013 that was mixed by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Katatonia, Symphony X, Paradise Lost). Reissued on Apollon Records three years later, it was followed in 2018 by breakthrough set “False Memory Archive,” which drew comparison to the likes of Steven Wilson and The Pineapple Thief and was praised to the hilt by publications such as Progradar, who stated that the album was “an incredibly engrossing and memorable listening experience,” and DPRP, who described it as “stunningly accomplished.” Released on Karisma Records to widespread praise from both the Prog and Alternative Rock communities, it led to live shows in the UK and all over mainland Europe.
Currently completing their third album for release in 2022, the group have today issued a beguiling version of the traditional Christmas carol “Silent Night,” of which singer Johannessen says: “I had just performed an Xmas concert when the idea struck me to change the harmonies and melody of ‘Silent Night’. The lyrics can be read as joyful and they go well with the traditional arrangement, but it was tempting to explore the fragility and melancholy that also shines through. We made a piano sketch immediately after that show and then went into the studio to make it sound like Oak. We are also working on similar material, as there is a huge treasure chest of hymns and folk music out there that we would love to interpret Oak-style.”
Watch the official video for “Silent Night” through the YouTube player below:
Lineup:
Simen Valldal Johannessen / Vocals, Keyboards
Øystein Sootholtet / Bass
Sigbjørn Reiakvam / Drums, Percussion, Programming
Stephan Hvinden / Guitars
