SEQUITUR

An interesting, varied and pretty eclectic this sophomore effort from US act Fractal.

And there's a lot of fragmentation on hand on this one - the influences of one Robert Fripp is a pretty constant feature, and although rarely as complex as King Crimson there's quite a few dissonant multilayered melodies served. In a toned down and accessible manner most times admittedly. The angst-filled explorations of Radiohead are known to these guys, and elements of their productions find their way into this mix as well; alongside mellow space-tinged atmospheres with a nod to late 70's Pink Floyd. A blues number and a punk-tinged creation with Frippian under- and overtones is the icing on the cake; while the techno and Tangerine Dream inspired tune Bellerophon provides a surprising end to this journey.

This disc covers many musical bases, and not all of them as good as others. Most of the stuff here is of good quality though; and people with a wide taste in music and an interest in advanced but not highly complicated rock should probably find much to enjoy on this one.

FRACTAL's second album which I really like. On the one hand they are cultivating a quite eclectic style with some King Crimson references, at best to seek out when listening to the opening Ellipsis or Mantra. But this is surely independent and sometimes experimental too. And you will detect very melodic melancholic parts as well, supported by mellow vocals which are even holding a pop appeal here and there. As for that the listener can expect a diverse effort so to say.

This California based outfit had started as a trio around the beginning of this millenium and the current line-up remained stable since 2004 featuring two guitarists. The additional keyboard work is managed by bass player Jim Mallonee and guitarist Nic Roozeboom. Aftermath had been already pre-released as a single in 2007 and makes out an highlight. Based on a complex structure this is garnished with melodic vocal dominated parts and contrasting metal riffing impressions.

A nice ballad like The Giving Tree may not be missed as well as the outraged weird Pataphysic or the spacey, more experimentally coloured Coriolis when using bowed guitar and synths. The 13 minute trilogy Chum comes initiated by symphonic impressions and especially part 2, holding deformed narrations, is just a gripping adventure.

Basically I'm open-minded for experiments who are trying to combine rock and nujazz/triphop elements. Don't know if Bellerophon may look out on the follower album. Never mind - this is far more electronically stamped, stylistically getting out of range, obviously contrasting. I'm not sure yet if this is successful in the end.

3.5 stars. FRACTAL offer much potential. As for a summary I find 'Sequitur' an interesting modern workout in the whole consisting of variety and a bunch of exceptional impressions. Quite suitable in order to bring more people closer to (sophisticated) prog music I would say. Bands which bear some reference: Headshear, Akt, King Crimson.