ARBORESCENCE

When considering the first batch of Ozric Tentacles albums released between 89 and 95, this one is the first where the band really seems at loss for ideas. There's nothing obviously wrong with it and if this is your first Ozric trip you might still like as much as the next one.

For a seasoned and demanding audience, the only thought that keeps popping up while listening to this album is "I'm sure I've heard them do this before, I'm just not entirely sure where.". And the problem is not just one of sameness; it's also one of dwindling inspiration and diminished drive. It takes till Al Salooq till I hear some actual fire on this album, but even then it doesn't last till the end of the song. A few other scattered flashes can be found on Dance of the Loomi and Myriapod

This album is a competent job, applying a proven formula with meticulous perfection. This is exactly the cocktail you ordered at the bar but hey, doesn't that other one that you haven't tasted yet look so much more appealing?

Arborescence is the sound of a band content with what they do, they're sure having fun doing it but they can't convey the excitement of true creativity. The album won't disappoint fans but it can be skipped if you'd rather invest in the diversity of your discography then in tracking down every single release of an artist. Hmm, sounds like I better get myself examined as well :-/