Here’s another one which AC at Bad Dog Promotions arranged to reach me via the artist.
It is by multi-instrumentalist Johan Steensland and titled Duality which was released a month ago (September 2025).
The bio sheet with Johan included with the CD says that Johan hails from Sweden and has been around on the scene for years with his main influences being the likes of King Crimson, Rush and Genesis.
Duality is his second prog rock opera with it described in the bio sheet as being richer in melody and harmony. The lyrics deeper and more poetic…..it still rocks out without compromise.
The concept is an interesting one as it plays out over the course of the album with the emerging relationship unfolding between Eddie, who finds himself in hospital after a car accident and has lost his memory, and Lydia, the nurse who looks after him.
Johan takes are of pretty much everything and is the Eddie character. The part of Lydia sung by Aleena Gibson. Guitarist Per Nilson pops up here and there.
Now, I’ve spent some time to give Duality a fair crack of the whip. Whilst I don’t dislike it, it doesn’t quite float my boat.
Yes – it is very well written and performed, however in general it’s a bit too tame for my tastes.
I’d summarise it mostly as quite gentle melodic prog with some symphonic and atmospheric passages with some jazzy parts and funky parts so plenty of variety.
It does have its more up tempo rockier moments along the way which when they happen are welcome as I prefer my prog with more edge and bite.
Perhaps this is summarised in They Believe I Am Kind which whilst being sort of pastoral does nudge up the tempo nicely mid-section. Have a listen:
Whilst Duality is not quite my bag, if you like say early Genesis then it might be to your liking.
If you fancy copy of Duality, here’s where to go:
Johan’s Website (CD)
https://johansteenslandmusic.com
Johan’s BandCamp or Amazon Music (digital)
https://johansteensland.bandcamp.com
https://amzn.to/3Jl9be1
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