KORAI ÖRÖM (1995)

Even with the first album they try to confuse us because abandoning the song titles. They hold up this trademark until today by the way. This makes it more difficult to point out special tunes. Never mind - they have other trademarks too which are more comfortable by all means. So to say the hypnotic rhythms which have a native folk/world music background provided with a high proportion of tribal percussion work. And you will detect only voices - not vocals really - this is basically an instrumental album.

KORAI ÖRÖM is not repeating the music on every release (if you don't go forward - you go backwards). So most of the songs from this debut are initiated by an atmospheric intro for example before they invite you to dance. Track 4 and 6 are the exceptions totally captured by exotic instruments like jew harp and didgeridoo. Keyboard/synths are also playing an important role and the guitars warrant the psychedelic resp. spacey element. A trumpet appears here and there what even provides a jazzy avantgarde touch, for example on track 1 and 2 which both have the makings of a masterpiece - somewhat light-footed in a very happy mood.

This album is hardly comparable with other band's efforts because of the high world music component. Unfortunately they cannot hold the high standard of the first songs during the whole album. However - 3.5 stars, a good start by KORAI ÖRÖM even if it might be treated as a little bit monotonous by some listeners ... oh yes ... speaking about trademarks ...