VOLUME ONE

Perhaps is an interesting new group that comes around with this impressive album consisting of just one single instrumental track of 37 minutes and 48 seconds of music. The band is a trio (guitar, bass and drums) helped out by a saxophonist, a trumpet player and a string quartet. According to the information given, the whole package was recorded live in the studio, which - given the complex nature of the music - makes it even more amazing. The music was written by bassist Jim Haney (who also designed the CD cover), but this is clearly a great team work, with guitarrist Sean McDermott and drummer Don Taylor showing fabulous skill and technique. The guest musicians area also terrific players. Production is excellent.

When asked to do this review, I was not really keen about doing it. After all, the style they play is hardly my favorite. However, there´s no way to be not impressed by such sheer display of talent and power. The long track has, as you may have guessed, several parts and different moods and musical tempos. Some are more "conventional", with great licks from McDermott, and some are more chaotic, in the best King Crimson and avant jazz tradition, with Tom Weeks (sax) and Bryan Murphy (trumpet) giving no small amount of contribution. The last part is one of the most captivating in my opinion, with a fine build up with the string section taking a bigger role. As a whole the piece is very rich, a roller coaster of emotions and sounds that will take for quite a ride.

All in all a very strong debut that will certainly please the fans of the genre - and beyond, as it was already showed by the highly praising reviews that came before mine. I´m glad I had the opportunity to listen to such new and strong group and I think everyone who loves music should give them a chance. If you´re interested go to their official site where their CD can be downloaded (you name the price). I´m looking forward to hear their next releases.

Rating: personally I´d give it 3 stars. In the Post rock/math rock genre I´d give it 5. So a 4 star rating is the ideal for this release.