Introducing…. holon

Click Roll Boom: Tell me about how you got started

holon: I got started in music pretty early on. As a kid, I used to record radio chart countdowns onto cassette tapes and became fascinated by how songs could make you feel something. Then, in school, I was randomly assigned to play guitar in music class — a lucky accident that turned into a lifelong obsession. After years of playing in different bands that eventually fell apart, I decided to start holon as a solo project around 2015. I wanted to create something that could be musically free — where I could blend progressive rock, ambient textures, folk influences, and cinematic elements without worrying about fitting into a box.

CRB: How would you describe your sound, and how has it evolved since you first started?

holon: I’d describe holon’s sound as emotional, atmospheric progressive rock — a mix of melodic songwriting, intricate arrangements, and dynamic storytelling. It’s music for people who want to really listen, not just hear. When I started, I leaned more on the technical and layered side of things. Over time, I’ve learned to trust space and simplicity more. I still love complexity, but now I’m more focused on emotional connection than showcasing precision. It’s become less about how many notes I can play and more about how deeply a song can move you.

CRB: Who or what have been some of your biggest influences, musically and beyond?

holon: Musically, there’s a long list. Dream Theater’s Images & Words was the album that opened the door to progressive rock for me. Then there’s Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, Frank Zappa, Pat Metheny, and Shakti — all artists who taught me something about emotional honesty, innovation, or technical mastery. Beyond music, I’m influenced by philosophy, psychology, and spirituality. Thinkers like Alan Watts, Ken Wilber, and Aldous Huxley have shaped how I approach not just lyrics but creativity itself. And I also love films. I’ve always admired David Lynch for his storytelling and the way he can create a special atmosphere. I also found out that we have almost the same process when it comes to creativity. I rarely have a vision of the final result when I start creating something, but it rather comes to me piece by piece along the way.

CRB: What does your songwriting process typically look like – is it a more individual or collaborative effort?

holon: It’s mostly an individual process, though I collaborate closely with Geir Anfinn Halland Johansen, who plays drums on most of my material. A lot of songs begin with me noodling on guitar until something catches my ear — a chord progression, a melody, or even just a sound that feels right. From there, I start layering parts and experimenting with textures in my home studio. Lyrics usually come later, once I’ve figured out the emotional direction of the music. That’s when I try to put words to what the sound is already saying. It’s not always easy, but when it clicks, it’s a very rewarding feeling.

CRB: How do you approach experimenting with new sounds or ideas when creating music?

holon: I love exploring new sounds — it’s one of the most exciting parts of making music. I tend to combine instinct with curiosity. Sometimes that means running traditional instruments through odd effects, layering unexpected textures, or simply asking, “What happens if I try this?” Since my studio is literally in my house, I can experiment whenever inspiration strikes. I’ve even built my own tools and effects from time to time. For me, sound design and composition are inseparable — both are about creating an emotional landscape that feels alive and unpredictable.

CRB: What’s been one of the most memorable moments in your journey so far?

holon: Releasing my debut album, The Time Is Always Now, in 2016. Seeing the music that had existed only in my head finally take shape and reach listeners around the world was surreal. It was the moment I realised that this project had a life of its own. Since then, hearing from listeners who found meaning or comfort in my songs has been just as powerful. Those moments of connection are what keep me going.

CRB: How do you prepare for live shows, and what do you aim to bring to your performances?

holon: holon is mainly a studio project, but I’ve played a few stripped-back acoustic performances. Before a show, I like to take a few quiet minutes, tune up (twice), and remind myself why I’m doing it. My goal is to create an intimate, immersive experience where people feel the emotion behind the songs. If I ever put together a full-band show, I’d want it to feel cinematic and atmospheric — not just a performance but an environment you can step into.

CRB: How do you balance creative expression with staying connected to your audience?

holon: That’s always a delicate balance. I make music because I have to — it’s how I make sense of things — but the real reward is connection. I try to stay true to what feels authentic rather than chase trends. Even if my music isn’t mainstream, those who discover it tend to connect deeply with it. I’d rather have a smaller, genuine audience than compromise what I’m trying to express. It’s about shared honesty rather than popularity.

CRB: What do you hope listeners take away from your work?

holon: I hope people find something that resonates emotionally — a sense of reflection, comfort, or recognition. My songs often explore love, loss, and transformation, and I want listeners to feel that it’s okay to sit with those emotions instead of rushing past them. I also hope they notice the details — the slow builds, the textures, the layers that reveal themselves over time. My music is meant to unfold gradually, like a conversation that deepens the more you engage with it.

CRB: What does the future hold for you – any plans or goals you’re excited about?

holon: I’m currently releasing songs from my upcoming album Love & Behold. I have two singles out already — Samsara and the title track Love & Behold. The album will be two parts and I have already finished the songs for the first part. I have songs written for part II, but a lot can happen when I enter the studio and start arranging them. I am looking forward to that. Beyond that, I also find some joy in creating the visual that accompanies the music — so probably going to make more music videos for my songs. The main goal is to keep evolving while staying true to the emotional core that defines holon.