Norwegian-Ecuadorian progressive metal project JAIME burst onto the scene with Above and Beyond, a stunning 60-minute debut that feels less like a first album and more like a fully realized cinematic opus. Released November 14, 2025, via Jaimekalv Records, the record draws deeply from frontman Jaime’s personal journey as a South American adoptee navigating identity, belonging, and self-therapy in Norway. The result is a rich tapestry blending punishing prog-metal riffs, soaring symphonic layers, subtle South American folk motifs, and lush choral arrangements—think Dream Theater’s technical fire crossed with Devin Townsend’s emotional grandeur and Steve Vai’s expressive guitar heroism.
The album unfolds in two distinct halves. The first five tracks lean heavily instrumental and atmospheric, opening with the haunting choir-driven miniature “Old Spirits, Insects and Butterflies” (featuring Stemmer & Rebellium Choirs). “Above and Beyond” explodes with infectious guitar hooks and sweeping keys, while “Heaven Falls Heavy” shifts from tribal percussion to crushing prog aggression. The instrumental “Event Horizon” stands as a highlight—exploratory, alive, and full of dynamic discovery—before “Power of The Sun” delivers straight-up technical excellence.
The second half pivots toward vocals, revealing Jaime’s versatile clean singing and theatrical delivery. Epic centerpiece “The Brightest of Stars” delivers massive hooks and quiet-to-cataclysmic dynamics, while “I Am of All Things” piles on choir-backed ambition that borders on overwhelming yet never loses its heart. Shorter cuts like the buoyant “The World Is For You” and the gentle closer “With You By My Side” provide welcome breathing room, grounding the spectacle in raw emotion. The late instrumental “Lights” injects playful James Bond funk, proving JAIME can swing from cinematic grandeur to groove without missing a beat.
Production—handled entirely by Jaime at HQ Studios in Bergen is crystal-clear and dynamically rich, letting live strings and real choir performances shine. Guitar work throughout is exceptional: fluid, melodic, and always in service of the song.
Above and Beyond wasn’t just a strong debut; it was one of 2025’s most ambitious prog-metal statements, earning its place among the year’s best (Prog Radio ranked it #26). For fans craving technical fireworks wrapped in heartfelt storytelling, JAIME has delivered something truly special.