MAN OVERBOARD

"Man Overboard" from 2004 is the last release from this Norwegian band so far. As usual the vocals and keyboards are the weak links but unlike "Room For Surprise" or "Power Structure" there's nothing else here to lift this up to being even close to a 4 star rating. Interesting that they have 3 guitarists here. I'm not sure why because there isn't a lot of guitar on this. I miss Robert Hauge who played on "Power Structure" that guy could play. Also Nina who played flute on that same album isn't on here either unfortunately.

"Intelligence" has a good intro with flute and some heaviness. It settles in before a minute then we get a calm as vocals arrive.Themes are repeated somewhat the rest of the way. "Backwards Sounds" opens with the keys and guitar trading off then the drums and bass help out as it builds. Synths too.Vocals before 1 1/2 minutes. I like when the synths come in each time. Relaxed guitar late. "Lazy Timing" opens with guitar then it kicks in and vocals follow. It settles with keys after 2 1/2 minutes.The drums and bass add some depth here.This is good as the guitar starts to play over top. "My Nights" opens with piano, flute and atmosphere. Reserved vocals follow. It's an okay song. "Passion Impossible" opens with synths and atmosphere then a beat with some heaviness takes over as contrasts continue.

"The Smoking Gun" builds as a beat joins in. It settles back around a minute and reserved vocals follow.It picks back up as contrasts continue. "Once Upon A Naked Floor" opens with pulsating synths as keys join in.This doesn't sound good. Flute replaces the keys and it gets heavier followed by vocals. Guitar before 2 1/2 minutes. "Goblin Dinner" is the only instrumental on here. It's a pleasant and laid back tune. "I've Taken Nothing" opens with vocals and a light sound. Flute replaces the vocals then it kicks in at a minute. Much better. Contrasts continue though.

A low 3 stars from me but I still like to play me some FRUITCAKE once in a while. Just not this one.