«Erlend Ropstad makes you think that rock was invented in the south of Norway» -Dagsavisen
Erlend Ropstad is regarded as one of Norway’s most significant rock artists, with eight Norwegian Grammy nominations and awards such as the Prøysen Prize and the Gammleng Prize to his name. On October 18, 2024, he will release his newest album, Like evig som oss, marking yet another highlight in a career known for powerful, reflective music that captures the pulse of the times.
Ropstad began working on Like evig som oss after his autumn tour in 2022. The recording process started in May 2023, and although it usually takes him just a couple of weeks to complete an album, this time bacame more extensive. The final recording was completed in February 2024, when Lars Winnerbäck contributed vocals on the track “Kyrie Eleison.”
“In this process, it became clear that the album needed to take the time it required to become what I wanted,” Ropstad says. “I hope and believe that the record has not lost the nerve and immediate energy that I feel recordings get when not spending too much time in the studio. I like the idea of eternity, measured against transience. I like how Nick Cave once made me wonder whether the people in the song 'And No More Shall We Part' were meant to be apart or together for all time. They had, in any case, taken their final farewell, and it is the farewells that are the hard part. The rest is just eternity.”
The album Like evig som oss explores themes of eternity and transience, drawing inspiration from artists like Nick Cave. Ropstad reflects on how farewells can be both painful and eternal, with moments of parting giving life to the album’s profound and emotional content.
Erlend Ropstad debuted with the EP The Magnetic Tapes in 2006 and has since built a solid reputation with critically acclaimed albums like Hva om det ikke er sånn som du tror at det er and Brenn siste brevet. His musical journey has been recognized with numerous nominations and awards, and his ability to create timeless music has secured him a prominent place in Norwegian rock.
With Like evig som oss, Ropstad continues to challenge both himself and his listeners with deep lyrics and powerful melodies. The album promises to be a worthy continuation of his impressive discography and a must-listen for anyone who appreciates genuine and meaningful rock music.