Interim

The Protagonist may not be known for being the most productive band, but they should definitely be known and statued as a prime example of how Neoclassical music should sound. 7 years after their debut CD "A Rebours" they still remain as a great influence to many new acts. In a most dramatic way it forces your will to desire for more, not only more of music but more of life. The bombastic male drums and snares are seduced by the romantic and feminine violins. The Protagonist's music is classic in design, strongly inspired by literature, film and the fine arts. For this recording accompanied by The Royal Dramatic Theatre of Sweden. 4 tracks 21 minutes of supreme Neoclassical music. - Lighten up your absinthe, sink down into your sofa, lay back and let your self be devoured by the romantic atmosphere of a early 1900-century - France - Paris - dreamers - thinkers - creators. Loose yourself in a theatrical world of beauty, mystery, nightmares.... here is the soundtrack to your dearest desires.

Songs Of Experience

Are you one of those that wondered whatevered happened to The Protagonist? After the much acclaimed debut A Rebours from 1998, fans of meticulously crafted music at the intersection where dark ambient meets neo-classical have waited in vain for a new album. However, this shouldn't be mistaken for seven years of idleness on the part of Magnus Sundström. Rather the focus shifted to his other musical endeavour, the evil twin des Esseintes, as well as the launching of his own imprint, the much productive Fin de Siècle Media label. But after this summer's strong comeback, the Interim EP, the time has finally come for a new album. Just like A Rebours, the title Songs of Experience betrays the literary impact on the music. And just like the poems of William Blake, these compositions strive to forge a perfect marriage between romanticism and darkness, with most emphasis on the latter this time around. Of the eight tracks, some are reworked versions of rare compilation tracks and some are completely new. Taken together they show the steady evolution of The Protagonist in the 21st century, of an artist that treasure an impeccable end-product over fast turnarounds and proliferation.