YANQUI U.X.O.

Another 5-star masterpiece by GY!BE. Although the band hadn't much developed and progressed since their 2000's effort and there aren't many steps forward, the amount of talent and sheer musicianship is irresistible and undeniable. Yanqui is the most cohesive album by the band without incorporating narrations and new age elements that could be distracting from the focus. Drumming has become more progressive and likely impressive with rhythm shifts. It is also the most accessible work by the band from their old era.

"09-15-00" Part 1 has a gently flowing start with cello and guitars.Oh, and can you hear mellotron? Bleakness is coming after the first 8 minutes announced by the chord sequence and increasing volume. Drums perform irregular pattern and violins with cellos create a brilliant simple line. Part 2 has a reflective mood with violin.

The contrast is coming soon with "Rockets Fall On Rocket Falls" having excellent sequence of sinister chords and you can easily imagine rockets falling, with melody played by cello/violin being absolutely bleak, among the bleakest by GY!BE. It was one of the tracks that immediately caught my attention a long time ago. Massive wall of sound by guitars and drumming is overwhelming. Even after the drums fade way, creepy cello keeps walking with solemn clarinets and trumpet keep fascinating atmosphere before guitars help repeating the motive. Tension keeps high when drums return however there two-three chords that mirror a glimpse of hope or is it a feeling of acceptance?

"Motherfucker=redeemer" are the closest track to progressive rock with their original non-trivial drumming and various moods. Especially the second part reminds of a bit of some Genesis drumming hooks. Of course, the classic post-rock guitar solo make this composition not forgettable, too.

And after that brilliant album, who would have said that the fans would have to wait next 10 years!