I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Dim Gray perform live twice—once at a Marillion Weekender and once opening for Big Big Train. From that, you might assume the Norwegian trio fit neatly into a particular musical niche, yet listening to them transports you into an entirely different world.
As “Defiance,” the opening track of their third album Shards, proves, Dim Gray are as cinematic as they are ambitious. Vocalist Oskar Holldorff (who also performs with Big Big Train) possesses a stunning falsetto, capable of sounding fragile one moment and soaring the next. His voice is an instrument in itself, adding layers of depth and emotion to the band’s intricate soundscapes.
The unsettling, almost disorienting start of “Myopia” reinforces the notion that Dim Gray’s music could be the soundtrack to a film playing in their collective imagination. The haunting harmonies of Vårin add an ethereal quality, and as the song opens into its lush climax—like a small river expanding into an estuary—the effect is mesmerizing.
“Murals” introduces a touch of folk influence, with intricate and captivating guitar work. Meanwhile, “Feathers” takes a widescreen approach, achieving an epic feel within its concise four-and-a-half-minute runtime—an impressive feat.
The piano-driven “Mooneater” is utterly gorgeous, a quality that extends across the album. Shards envelops the listener, creating an immersive experience from start to finish. “Peril” maintains this atmosphere with its dynamic interplay, balancing accessibility with complexity, culminating in a soaring crescendo.
“Little One” provides a stark contrast—gentle and restrained in its verses before erupting into expansive choruses. The closing guitar solo is particularly noteworthy; where most bands might take 15 minutes to pack in such grandeur, Dim Gray achieves it effortlessly in just a few.
The fragile “Shards From A Broken Crown” offers two minutes of sheer beauty, its lush textures setting the stage for the album’s true epic—”Attakulla.” At ten minutes long, it is a masterful composition, elevating the album to new heights. Calling it a mere “song” almost feels like an understatement.
Shards is not simply a collection of great moments but a cohesive whole, where every note feels intentional. This is an album that promises to reveal even more depth with repeated listens, rewarding those who fully immerse themselves in its world.
Rating: 8.5/10
