STAINED GLASS

Released in 2010, just shortly after the release of "Coyote", this one-track EP "Stained Glass" features pretty much the same line- up as Coyote. However, this 20 minute track is different enough than anything on Coyote, and it is obvious why it just wasn't included there. This track has some definite musical sections and contains quite a dynamic feel to it that was missing somewhat in Coyote. This track seems to pull the best from their masterpiece "Choirs of the Eye" all the way through "Blue Lambency Downward" as it moves across avant prog atmospherics, dynamics and sensibilities. There is also a guest appearance from Trey Spruance (from "Secret Chiefs 3") who plays the guitar solo.

The piece is centered around the vibraphone, a Rhodes piano and an electric guitar. The four sections are broken up into the instruments that are the most prevalent in the section. This first section is led by voice and violin which changes to distorted organ and tenor sax in the 2nd section, bass and glockenspiel next, and then finally to heavy guitar with tremolo effects, harmonium and synthesizer.

The music remains quite atmospheric all the way through, but stands a little differently than most of Kayo Dot's music in that it has a counting meter, though it is rather opaque. There is an air of mysteriousness all the way through and a section where there is a ten chord progression that rotates through the three main instruments, one at a time, and then starts to played with different odd counts, sort of like a round, yet often beginning on off beats. It's quite complicated, yet it the overall sound seems rather sparse and light.

The EP is a definite must for fans of Kayo Dot, and also for fans of avant prog. But as such, it might not appeal to everyone because of the use of un-traditional modes and intervals. I find it very intriguing and a nice surprise buried in the middle of Kayo Dot's discography.