The Belgian trio and their Norwegian producer have created an album that skillfully balances its contrasts: electronic and acoustic, intimate and expansive, abstract and tuneful. For all the sonic adventurism and curious juxtapositions at play, an uncluttered spaciousness gives the music ample opportunity to breathe. This Ghent-by-way-of-Bergen concoction should please listeners who appreciate deep rhythms, post-minimalist precision, and the likelihood of a surprise waiting around every corner.

On this engaging live set, Panzerpappa and guests lean into melodicism with both subtlety and drama, blending (mostly) instrumental Scandinavian prog and folk with touches of Canterbury and even a bit of Crimson-ish tight unison riffage. At times, it’s akin to Camel’s The Snow Goose, but with stronger folk textures, lyrical sax, and warm accordion accents. The album’s dedication to the great Lars Hollmer is fitting, and Hollmer’s classic “Boeves Psalm” provides a beautiful and heartfelt coda.

Anyone considering building a music library dedicated to our extraterrestrial overlords should seriously consider starting here.

It’s always a pleasure listening to music conceived and produced by entities whose capabilities clearly transcend those possessed by human beings.