After more than three decades in silence, Norwegian guitarist Øystein «Øssi» Wika is resurrecting Electric Saints—a project that fuses the raw energy of rock with the atmospheric depth of electronic music. Revisiting shelved 4-track demos from 1989, Wika is reimagining his pioneering sound, with a debut album slated for release in 2025.
Trondheim, 1989
In 1989, amidst the vibrant music scene of Trondheim, Norway, Wika embarked on an ambitious musical journey called Electric Saints. Initially experimenting with a borrowed Roland D-50 synthesizer, he began merging synths, drum machines, and heavy guitar riffs to create a unique sound. This led to the creation of crude demos that captured the raw essence of his innovative fusion.
Recognizing the potential of his experiments, Wika purchased a Roland D-20 Workstation/Sequencer synth alongside a fellow musician friend. Equipped with the D-20 and a Tascam 244 Portastudio 4-track cassette recorder, he delved deeper into songwriting and production, crafting demos for several band projects, including Electric Saints. The music drew inspiration from pioneering industrial bands and underground alternative artists of the early 80s.
Electric Saints - Placeholder cover art
Prior to Electric Saints, Wika had attempted to form Madboy (1988-89), a 4-piece hard rock act that underwent several personnel changes. Like Electric Saints, Madboy was shelved due to difficulties in funding professional studio recordings and members prioritizing other commitments. Despite these setbacks, Wika's passion for music never waned.
Today, from his home studio in Mosjøen, Norway, Øssi Wika is breathing new life into Electric Saints. Recording everything himself, he is revisiting and re-recording the original compositions, infusing them with contemporary elements while preserving the project's initial spirit. The yet-untitled debut album is set for release sometime in 2025.
This revival is more than just completing unfinished business; it's a testament to Wika's enduring dedication to his craft. Fans can anticipate a timeless experience that bridges the past and present, delivering a sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
Join us on this remarkable journey as we unveil tracks decades in the making. Follow Electric Saints on social media and stay tuned for updates on the upcoming release.
