Kristoffer Oustad – Magnor (Digital/CD/Cassette Album – Zoharum)
Norwegian artist Kristoffer Oustad debuted in the Metal scene but has been experimenting with electronic music for over ten years. He has been active in various projects and returned late last year with his first new album under his own name in a decade.
“Magnor” features seven tracks composed over several years. The songs typically have long introductions and gradually build, incorporating all kinds of analogue effects and field recordings. The icy soundscapes leave little doubt: this is a work that unfolds like a gnawing terror — dark, Cinematic music that leaves the listener with a lingering sense of unease. Long, deep strings intensify the tormented atmosphere as it slowly rises, reaching an absolute climax in “Bring Back The Wolves.” Here and there, subtle spoken-word samples appear, and on the final track you can even hear the voice of Jonathan Grieve (Contrastate).
In some ways, it is a pity that the album contains only one true standout moment, but despite this, it remains an absolute must-have for anyone who appreciates obscure and unsettling Cinematic atmospheres. (Rating:7½).
Listen to “Bring Back The Wolves”:
About Kristoffer Oustad
Kristoffer Oustad is a Norwegian experimental musician and sound designer who first came up through the Metal scene before moving into electronics. His work draws on industrial aesthetics, ambient music and dark electronica, built up over more than two decades across several projects.
“Magnor” was released on 27 October 2025 through Zoharum in CD, cassette and digital formats, his first solo album under his own name in a decade. Its seven tracks were built with analog and modular synthesizers, field recordings and minimal post-production, and the closing piece, “Detachment”, features vocals by Jonathan Grieve of Contrastate.
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