KENSO III

Kenso's third namesake album is one of the hottest and most energetic prog efforts released during the critical 80s period: such a pity I didn't know them back then! By the time 'Kenso III' was recorded and released, Kenso had finally become a well-oiled instrumental ensemble, with a clear artistic path set in their common creative mind, and with enough proficiency to accomplish it in a classy, exquisite manner. The number of guest musicians who occasionally appear along the repertoire does not stop the band from portraying their real own style: along with the clear influences they received from excellent acts such as Hatfield & the North, National Health, and early 80s-Weather Report, they managed to instill a healthy dose of Far Eastern flavours in order to create something of their own within the boundaries of jazzy-prog. The (not too abundant) use of analog synths makes this album sonically similar to many jazz-pop recordings of that era, but the material never falls into easy listening patterns: its catchiness relies on the nice counterpoints and tectures played on keyboards, which fluidly complement the guitar and synth solos. The repertoire is so even in terms of compositive excellence and clever arrangements that it's hard to mention just a few examples... but I'll try: the opening number, as well as tracks 4, 5, 9 and 10, are the most representative highlights of the album. Besides, you can find a couple of nice interludes (tracks 3 and 6) that introduce some well-balanced weirdness in the middle of this melodic feast. The bonus track is actually a re-recorded version of an original piece from their debut album. In conclusion: highly recommended!