Released 20th May 2015
With great pleasure I get to review the latest release from Swedish retro rockers Vidunder titled Oracles & Prophets. I was very excited when the LP showed up on my doorstep last week; I unwrapped it and put the record straight onto the turntable. I had only heard snippets of some tracks before the albums release so I was motivated to hear the complete work.
My excitement was brought on by the positive impression of the first album, the self-titled Vidunder. Since then the band has grown from a trio to a quartet, making organist Johannes Cronquist a permanent member of the group. This was a grand addition; the organ can be heard throughout the album creating a full and vibrant sound. The use of long, spacey notes, together with atmospheric guitar tones, made evident a psychedelic influence in ‘Kalhygge’, and the arpeggios played by the organ in ‘Gone With Dawn’ added excitement and colour.
The second I dropped the needle onto the record I was tapping my feet and banging my head to the classic 60s/70s style tunes. The album started with such power! ‘Gone With Dawn’ was a great opening track featuring anthemic choruses and searing vocals, provided by vocalist-guitarist Martin Prim. This high energy was maintained throughout the next couple of tracks. The side ended with a haunting tune, ‘The Owl’, that built-up pleasantly and showcased even more of the band’s psychedelic influences and depth.
I flipped the album over and the fast pace rock ‘n’ roll returned. These alterations in energy and feel show that Vidunder are a band of substance and quality. Many of the songs on the album would make anyone want to dance to the strong rhythms and punchy guitar hits.
The final track, ‘Oracles & Prophets’ stood out as a solid ending to the album. The song starts with a siren like guitar sound, alerting listeners to the tasty jam that ensues. The tune builds effectively with punching rhythms and scorching guitar solos. I had to rock along and couldn’t stand still! Before you realise, the song fades out, the album ends and you are inclined to flip the vinyl back over and listen all over again.
Vidunder know how to compose an album that isn’t afraid to demonstrate versatility and vintage influences. Oracles & Prophets is a well-crafted time warp back to when rock music was raw, fresh and lovable. I happily struggled to identify any distinct influences of bands from the past, which shows just how well Vidunder are at mashing their favourites together to make a vintage sounding but incredibly modern sonic artwork. This is an album that can be put on at a party or listened to with a glass of Baileys, either way it will be enjoyed. So take a trip back in time and discover Vidunder’s unique old school tones for the love of music.
For The Love of Music 