by Dean Wolfe, prog dog media. album released 2026
This album is rich with emotion and packed with ideas.
Many prog fans know Kristoffer Gildenlöw as the longtime bassist for Pain of Salvation, but over the past decade he has established himself as a compelling solo artist, crafting deeply personal albums that blend progressive rock, metal, singer-songwriter intimacy, and rich cinematic atmosphere.
On Humanised, Gildenlöw explores themes of identity, mortality, isolation, empathy, and the fragile nature of our existence in an increasingly disconnected world. The album is steeped in melancholic melodies and a haunting atmosphere, at times expanding into almost symphonic territory. Yet beneath these weightier themes, Gildenlöw frequently introduces an uplifting melodic arc, allowing the songs to rise above their emotional gravity.
The album's nine distinct tracks maintain a steady momentum, each bringing something fresh while allowing plenty of room for moments of reflection and contemplation. There are passages that venture into technical metal territory, delivered with precision and featuring some impressive rhythmic complexity and adventurous time signatures. Yet, at its core, Humanised never loses sight of its surprisingly strong singer-songwriter foundation, where melody and emotion remain the driving forces.
Speaking as a musician, and particularly as a guitarist and bassist, there are plenty of tasteful riffs and playing here to appreciate. The album features the familiar low-tuned, heavily distorted guitar tones often associated with modern progressive metal, but it also makes excellent use of clean passages that add contrast and beautifully frame the heavier moments. Add in powerful drumming, atmospheric synth work, and tasteful piano touches, and you have a well-rounded progressive album that balances power, texture, and emotion.
The vocals are another major strength throughout the album, particularly on the standout track "Nothing Stays the Same." Here, Gildenlöw demonstrates the expressive power of a lower vocal range, delivering a performance filled with warmth and emotional depth. The song builds beautifully, culminating in a cascade of harmonies that brings the track to an awe-inspiring conclusion.
There is very little to fault about Humanised. Its darker, introspective nature may not immediately appeal to listeners seeking a more aggressive or accessible prog-metal experience, but those who invest time in its layers and nuances will find an album filled with emotional and musical rewards.
I'm giving this album a very solid 4½ out of 5 dog bones. For me, Humanised is a revelation, introducing me to the possibility of a perfect blend between personal singer-songwriter intimacy and the expansive textures of progressive rock and metal.
My fave tracks include "Nothing Lasts Forever" and "Nothing Stays the Same".
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