Airbag was formed in the mid-2000s by five high school classmates, including Asle Tostrup (vocals) and Bjørn Riis (guitars). They released their first EP, “Come on In,” in 2004, followed by a series of self-produced EPs available for free on their website, which garnered nearly a quarter of a million downloads. This success led to a deal with Norwegian prog label Karisma Records in August 2008.

Their debut album, “Identity” (2009), featured remixed songs from their earlier EPs and won several album of the year awards. The single “Colours” reached the top 3 on Polish national radio. Their second album, “All Rights Removed” (2011), introduced a new lineup with Henrik Bergan Fossum on drums and included the epic 17-minute “Homesick,” showcasing their blend of bombastic arrangements and ambient soundscapes.

In 2012, Airbag toured and opened for Marillion, later sharing stages with prominent prog bands like Yes, Saga, Anathema, Pineapple Thief, and Riverside. They have performed at major European venues and are three-time guests at the annual Cruise to the Edge in the US.

Their next albums, “The Greatest Show on Earth” (2013) and “Disconnected” (2016), revealed a darker side with themes of societal destruction and individual struggle, highlighted by heavier guitars and dramatic arrangements. Both albums received high praise for their production and musicianship.

Airbag’s fifth album, “A Day at the Beach” (2020), was inspired by 1980s electronica, new wave, and movie scores, combining ethereal soundscapes with their signature guitar-driven progressive rock. This album showcased a mature band looking forward with an impressive legacy.

Airbag will be touring in 2024/25 to support their upcoming release, “The Century of the Self.”