AMINO ACID FLASHBACK

If you'll read sites around the Net as well as their own thoughts in the CD booklet, supposedly Ohm's second studio album "Amino Acid Flashback" shows a marked step forward for the band, shows progression, musical maturity, etc. Perhaps that is true from a technical perspective but listening to both side by side, this reviewer prefers their first self-titled release which sounds more spontaneous, more exciting, and frankly, more alive.

Amino does throw more at us in terms of nuance, sound effects, and complexities. That doesn't necessarily translate into a better listening experience for me. There has also been a personal change; the new drummer in the group is none other than Kofi Baker, son of Cream's Ginger Baker. Let's just say that as far as rock drummer kids go, Kofi blows Zak Starkey and Jason Bonham out of the water. He is an exceptionally gifted drummer who boggles the mind with some of his fills.

I'm not saying the music on Amino is poor or not appealing. It is still good, challenging, rocking, and technically amazing. I'm just saying that I'll choose the first one over this one 4 out of 5 times for those long road trips. If you're new to Ohm I would certainly recommend the first album if you like a saucier guitar. If you tend to like a drier instrumental experience with more emphasis on effects and controlled textures then you might prefer this one. Both will be appreciated by fusion/instrumental rock nuts.