DEMI MASA

SIMAKDIALOG are from Indonesia and this is their first album with Moon June Records but their fourth studio album overall. Released in 2009 we have no drummer but two Sudanese kedang percussionists who also add handclaps, toys and vocals. We also get a guest adding the very same things. I'm such a big fan of the keyboardist especially his Fender Rhodes playing. We also get bass and guitar with this five piece then a guest singer on track 7 and another guest doing soundscapes on track 8. This is a long one at 70 minutes and I could have done without the final two tracks where we get a similar style with lots of percussion while the guitar and piano take turns soling over top.

This is a great album though as I'm reminded right now playing that 14 minute opener. Love that guitar late soloing over top while electric piano and beats underpin the proceedings. The second part being track two is the most ethnic sounding piece on here but that changes late when the guitar and electric piano arrive. Great section and a nice contrast with what went on before. "Not So far Part 1" is light and breezy but interesting. I like the guitar late when it becomes the focus. The second part is fairly mellow with picked guitar and percussions but it will become the bass, electric piano and percussion show. Another multi part track comes in "Northern People" divided into three songs. Some spacey stuff on that final part and female vocals which are nice changes.

Overall I have to hit 4 stars this is just too good in my opinion and a little different.