Shining

Shining is a Norwegian jazz, metal and rock group from Oslo, active since 1999. The line-up includes Jørgen Munkeby, Torstein Lofthus and Morten Qvenild, and the group releases music on Spinefarm Records. Its sound is described across experimental, avant-garde, avant-garde metal, avant-prog, jazz and metal, and it develops from an experimental jazz base into a progressive metal form.

Style and development

The group begins as an experimental jazz act and later moves into an avant-garde progressive metal approach with a strong jazz influence. Its later work is associated with a harder, more intense sound, and the name is used for this Norwegian group rather than the Swedish black metal band of the same name.

Releases and recognition

Shining’s early albums include Where the Ragged People Go, Sweet Shanghai Devil, In the Kingdom of Kitsch You Will Be a Monster and Grindstone. Later releases include Blackjazz, Live Blackjazz, One One One and International Blackjazz Society. The group wins the Alarm Award for In the Kingdom of Kitsch You Will Be a Monster in 2006 and for Grindstone in 2007.

Line-up

Current members listed for the group are Jørgen Munkeby on saxophone, guitar, Akai EWI and vocals; Torstein Lofthus on drums; Bernt Moen on synths and keyboards; Tor Egil Kreken on bass; and Håkon Sagen on guitars.