4TH

Whenever it comes to instrumental music, I typically compare the music with the one that really inspires me in terms of great composition. One song that I can make as reference is Bill Bruford's 'Fainting in Coils' and Chick Corea 'Compadres'. Well man ... it's hard to really beat this masterpiece, wonderfully crafted composition! I have not found any intrumental that can match those two songs. Well, if you consider Chick Corea 'Dear Alice' as an instrumental work, I count it as masterpiece also. They are all fabulous. But 'Dear Alice' (from The Mad Hatter labum) is the music of all time for me as it has top notch composition which sets no follower at all because it's so perfect!

What about this album of DFA? There is no single track that can match the tracks I mention above. But, I find this album is an excellent one considering the composition and performance of the musicians. It lacks catchy melody, actually .. but it's alright because the album also gives us excellent combination in terms of harmony and complexity. The whole album sounds to me like a musical jam session as there is no solid melody where the music is built around it. The harmonies between all instruments being used and also the complexity have made a high mark in terms of musical quality. If you like how each instrument contributes in the music making you will find yourself satisfied. I actually prefer the one that includes solid melody like the three tracks I mention above as key reference. This album also has a solid structural integrity as far as each song or the whole album.

The intertwining roles of guitar and keyboard make a unique music of DFA especially when it's combined with dynamic drumming and bass guitar work. The drum is also played dynamically as it provides like a 'fill' during transition pieces. If you like jazz rock fusion this is one of the bands worth considering. Overall, it's an excellent album. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW