THE ECLECTIC MEASURE

Unfortunately I've only recently discovered Hypnos 69 with this, their most recent album, The Eclectic Measure, the first four having passed me by. But better late than never and I'm very pleased to have made the acquaintance.

Hypnos 69 produce very dynamic music helped by a myriad of influences in their sound - King Crimson and not surprisingly, Anekdoten combine with retro psychedelia. Pink Floyd and stoner bands like Monster Magnet also appear to have been digested.

I and You and Me is a rather subdued, primarily acoustic intro to the album and is gone in just over a minute but serves its purpose well making the arrival of the title track even more explosive. Things quieten down as the vocals arrive before a wonderfully drawn out instrumental section with some nice guitar work (reminiscent of Dave Gilmour in the more restrained moments) underpinned by a swirling Hammond. My favourite track on the album.

I enjoy the band more in full throttle explosive mode than the more reflective moments. For this reason the driving The Antagonist appeals to me but following track Halfway to the Stars is a lovely acoustic guitar dominated track with a strong melody proving that this diversity is one of the keys to their appeal.

I and You and Me makes a return but this time it sticks around for over six minutes and from quiet beginnings builds to a cacophonous finish. Apart from the already praised title track it's the last three tracks that really grab my attention the most, The Point of No Return being particularly impressive. At almost eight minutes it gives the band plenty of opportunity to spread their wings with some very good instrumental interplay. Deus Ex Machina makes a fine album closer, starting quietly with slide guitar and fender Rhodes piano (I've always had a soft spot for that fender Rhodes sound) making a strong presence, it has a slow build to a climatic finish.

I'd really love to see Hypnos 69 live because the structure of the songs offers ample opportunity for extended jamming and for me this is where the band are at their best here, on the longer tracks.

Overall a very good album with much to recommend though a couple of weaker tracks restrain me from stretching to a full 4 stars, but a very strong 3 ½. A band to keep an eye on.