Ring Van Möbius: Firebrand

If this truly is the last chapter for Norway’s Ring Van Möbius, then Firebrand is one of those rare farewells that feels both celebratory and conclusive, just like the sound of a band closing its circle with confidence, grace, and more than a few fireworks.

Since their debut, Past the Evening Sun, this trio from Kopervik comprised of Thor Erik Helgesen (vocals, Hammond, Mellotron, synths, Rhodes), Håvard Rasmussen (bass, effects), and Dag Olav Husås (drums, percussion), have earned their reputation as one of the most authentic purveyors of analog-driven progressive rock of the 21st century. Firebrand continues that legacy with a vengeance, summoning the spirits of ELP, Van der Graaf Generator, and early Genesis, yet shaping those influences through their unmistakably Norwegian sense of drama and atmosphere.

Comprised of just three long-form compositions, “Firebrand,� “The Fever,� and “False Dawn�, the album unfolds like a triptych of classic symphonic prog. The opening title track comes alive with Helgesen’s Hammond organ growling beneath cascading synths and timpani flourishes, as if Keith Emerson and Jon Lord had conspired to score an apocalyptic overture. “The Fever� brings a darker, almost cinematic vibe, with Rasmussen’s modulated bass echoing through shifting time signatures and Husås’ percussive mastery, gongs, bells, and glockenspiels included, providing a sense of ritual. By the time “False Dawn� closes the record, the emotional weight of this being their swan song truly sinks in: a grand, melancholic, and very human finale.

There’s a lot to admire here including the musicianship, of course, but also the genuine warmth that comes from their analog recording approach at Spectral Tape Studio. Every chord and cymbal crash breathes in its own space, every organ swell feels tactile, unfiltered, and alive. Yet, what elevates Firebrand above mere nostalgia is its sincerity. Ring Van Möbius aren’t reenacting the ‘70s… they’re extending its spirit, right into our modern age.

If Firebrand is indeed their final statement, it’s a glorious curtain call: bold, intricate, and full of heart. One last spin through the Möbius loop… and what a loop it’s been… cheers!

Track Listing:
1. Firebrand (9:33)
2. The Fever (13:22)
3. False Dawn (24:42)

Added: October 27th 2025
Reviewer: Jose Antonio Marmol
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Bandcamp
Hits: 126
Language: english

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