KARMATRAIN

It's said a NZ-based act OUTSIDE IN were founded a brainchild of a vocalist / multi-instrumentalist Mikey BROWN and a guitarist Jonnie BARNARD. Like a recent trend in the progressive rock scene, it sounds like the combo would have taken enough time to plan, record, produce, mix, and master, for this debut creation "Karmatrain" released in 2020. Featuring 12 brilliantly composed tracks with fantastic instrumental techniques, this album could be accepted by not only art rock fans but also 'authentic' rock ones, I suggest. On the contrary, for quite a few experimental rock freaks (like me), the soundscape in this album could not ring their bells enough probably ... you can find it be well-designed and well-matured though.

Mikey's voices are quite mellow and comfortable, and perfectly fit for their catchy, accpetable melody lines and rigid, sincere rhythmic deliveries. The first "Let Me Go" full of artistic sound outlines would give the overall definition for the whole album. One of their single-cut songs "The Garden Of Light", that might be an opportunity for their reunion, is pretty dramatic and immersive. Slightly complicated rhythmic progression in the last track "I Am Not The One" is my love really. Not found incredible sound innovation nor magnificent melody eccentricity in their creation, but you can definitely get immersed in their superb playing skills and elegant touches. A fascinating one for Crossover fans, let me say.