BRIDGES OF KUKURIKU

This reminds me of hard-driving OZRIC TENTACLES songs except fresher, more organized to showcase a variety of instrumental sounds and solos (yes, even more than Mr. WYNN et companie). the driving, propelling bass playing is noticeable--and greatly appreciated--throughout, as are the very dynamic and upbeat synthesizer soli and accompany-work. Though the first song "Kukuriki, Pt. 1 (Bridge one)" (7/10) starts like an amped-up TALKING HEADS "Cross-eyed and Painless" (if you can imagine that!?!?), it's Eastern influences give it its own identity. 2. "Follow the Star (Bridge Two)" (8/10) takes on a WEST INDIA GIRL plays PORCUPINE TREE's "Sky Moves Sideways" flute-led jam section. 3. "Shiver Moments (Bridge Three)" (6/10) is the album's heaviest jam with some near-metal guitars ("Apocalypse in 9/8"?!) and structures. 4. "Portable Forest (Bridge Four)" (6/10) loses out because of its disco drum beat and fairly simple and straightforward rock jam showcasing. 5. "Counter Clockwise (Bridge Five)" (8/10) is the album's only 'slowed down' tune, with a kind of Ibiza-Ozric sound to it (though no techno-beats). Still, truly awesome keys and bass playing! 6. "Kukuriku, pt. 2" is the most OZRIC-sounding of them all. Check out this cool and tasteful collection of cruisin' songs! It's a joy ride! And really great musicians. Looking forward to more in their future. And look: a new bass player to watch! Kudos, Jaro!